How to Video Call Your Family
Video calls let you see and talk to loved ones face-to-face, no matter how far away they are. This guide covers the three most popular ways to video call: FaceTime (for Apple users), WhatsApp (works on any phone), and Zoom (great for group calls).
Which App Should I Use?
FaceTime
Best if you and your family all have iPhones or iPads
- Already on your iPhone
- Very easy to use
- High quality video
Best for calling anyone, anywhere in the world
- Works on iPhone and Android
- Free international calls
- Also great for messaging
Zoom
Best for larger family gatherings
- Up to 100 people
- Works on phones and computers
- Great for family reunions
Option 1: Using FaceTime (iPhone & iPad)
FaceTime comes pre-installed on all Apple devices. It's the simplest option if everyone in your family has an iPhone or iPad.
Making a FaceTime Call
Find and tap the FaceTime app on your home screen. It's a green icon with a white video camera.
Tap New FaceTime at the top of the screen.
Type the name or phone number of the person you want to call.
Tap their name when it appears, then tap the green FaceTime button.
Wait for them to answer. You'll see yourself in a small box and them on the main screen.
Answering a FaceTime Call
When someone calls you on FaceTime, you'll see a notification with their name. Simply tap the green Accept button to answer.
Option 2: Using WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a free app that works on both iPhones and Android phones. It's perfect for calling family members who don't have iPhones, or for international calls.
Step 1: Download WhatsApp
Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
Search for "WhatsApp".
Tap Get or Install to download it.
Open WhatsApp and follow the setup steps. You'll need to verify your phone number.
Step 2: Make a Video Call
Open WhatsApp and tap the Calls tab at the bottom.
Tap the phone icon with a plus sign to start a new call.
Find the person you want to call in your contacts.
Tap the video camera icon next to their name to start a video call.
Option 3: Using Zoom
Zoom is excellent for larger gatherings - like a family reunion where grandparents, children, and grandchildren all want to chat together.
Joining a Zoom Call (Easiest)
If someone else is hosting the call, joining is very simple:
Ask your family member to send you a Zoom link (usually via text or email).
Tap the link when you receive it.
If prompted, tap Join with Video and Call using Internet Audio.
You're in! You should see everyone on the call.
Downloading Zoom (If Needed)
The first time you tap a Zoom link, you may be asked to download the app:
When prompted, tap Download to get the Zoom app.
Once installed, tap the Zoom link again to join the call.
Tips for Better Video Calls
Good Lighting
Sit facing a window or lamp. Avoid having bright light behind you, as this makes your face look dark.
Steady Camera
Prop your phone against something stable, or hold it steady at arm's length. Consider getting a simple phone stand.
Quiet Space
Find a quiet room and turn off the TV. Background noise can make it hard to hear each other.
Look at the Camera
Try to look at the camera (the small circle at the top of your phone), not the screen. This helps you make "eye contact."
Use WiFi
Video calls work best when connected to WiFi. This gives you a clearer picture and saves your phone data.
Charge Your Phone
Video calls use a lot of battery. Start with a fully charged phone, or keep it plugged in during long calls.
Common Problems (and How to Fix Them)
"They can't hear me"
Make sure you haven't accidentally muted yourself. Look for a microphone icon with a line through it - tap it to unmute.
"They can't see me"
Check that your camera is turned on. Look for a camera icon - if it has a line through it, tap it to turn video on.
"The call keeps freezing"
This usually means a weak internet connection. Try moving closer to your WiFi router, or ask the other person to turn off their video temporarily.
"I see myself but not them"
The other person may not have answered yet, or their camera might be off. Wait a moment, then ask them (by phone if needed) to check their settings.