How our webinars and the Zoom software work.

Important Notes

• PLEASE sign into the webinar AT LEAST 5 MINUTES PRIOR TO 7PM MDT (Edmonton Time Zone).
• You can sign in as early as you want and it is important that you do so to ensure your mic/speakers/video are all working.
• Within 30 minutes of the webinar start time, we will be unable to help you so PLEASE take a minute and check your system right now.
• NOTE: if you have an unpaid invoice for this webinar, please settle it by 5PM to ensure your participation. 

Basics

The webinar is a 2 way audio and video conference. That is, you'll be able to both see and hear Scott AND (optionally) participants can see and hear you too.
For that to be possible you need a computer with a webcam, speakers and a microphone. If you're using your smartphone, tablet or any recently made laptop - all of these things are built in.  If you don't have a webcam or microphone, you will still be able to hear and see us.

How to Join the Webinar

There are two ways.

The first:

• Sign into your Amazing Horse Country account.  On your Member Home Page you'll see a button labelled My Clinics and Webinars.  Click on that and scroll down.
• On this page you'll see a list of webinars that you're registered in.  Once we have processed your payment you will see a link to join the webinar.  If you are on a membership plan, you will be added automatically and do not have to register.
• Simply click on the Join Session link when it's time to do so.

The second:

• We typically send out a reminder email the day prior or day of the webinar.  That email will have a link in it as well.
• Simply click on that link to join the session OR
• Manually enter the meeting ID and passcode in your Zoom app.

Notes:

• The webinars run through an app called Zoom (more on that below).
• It is critical that you are ready well in advance of the webinar as we will not be able to help you once the webinar has started.
• Feel free to join the webinar before it starts.
• When you join the meeting you will be prompted to "join with computer audio" or "use device audio" depending on what device you're using.  Make sure to accept or confirm that prompt otherwise we won't be able to hear you.
• Scott will start it promptly at 7PM MST.  Please join the webinar prior to that so if everyone is in attendance prior to the start time, we'll all be ready. 
   

More on the Zoom App

Zoom is likely the world's most popular video conferencing software.  For participants, such as yourself, it is totally free.  You can use the software without creating an account.

You can download the app from the App Store (Apple devices), Google Play (Android Devices) or the Zoom website (computers or desktops).  Take a minute to do this now and become familiar with it.

Once it's downloaded, you can test it out by joining the webinar.  If you're using a computer, make sure you test your audio and video (you can do that in the app).

Tips

• In the Zoom app, you can enter a user name that will be displayed during the session.  Because we do interact, please use your real first name, thanks!
• When Scott is presenting, your microphone will be muted. This prevents stray noises from the microphones of all the participants.  When there are opportunities to for you to speak or ask questions, we will ask you to unmute your mic. 
• If you plan to join in a discussion or ask questions - make sure you're in a quiet place free of background noise (kids playing, TV, machinery, etc).  If you wish to be seen, make sure you're in a well lit room so your camera works well. Note: you don't require a web cam, but it's sure great to see your face when we're having a face to face conversation.
• You'll also be able to type messages in a chat box during the conference too (that the group, or just Scott, can see).  There is also a function for you to "raise your hand".
• Wired or wireless headsets with a microphone are very inexpensive and perfect for voice conversations.

Accessing your Webinar Sessions

After the webinar is over, we upload the recorded session - typically within a few days - and you'll be able to access it from your My Saved Videos page.

Tips for Successful Videoconferencing

• You will need a device: phone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer with a microphone and speakers.
• When you click the link to join the the session for the first time, the software will download and install on your device.  If it's your first time ever, please click the link ahead of time so you can be all ready.  Ensure your mic/speakers are working beforehand as well.
• Make sure you're in a quiet place free of background noise (kids playing, TV, machinery, etc).
• Make sure you're in a well lit room so your camera works well. Note: you don't require a web cam, but it's sure great to see your face when we're having a face to face conversation.
• Bluetooth / wired headsets are inexpensive and great for eliminating background noise for both parties

Shooting Video - Pointers

If you're going to shoot video for a 1 on 1 session, here are some tips for you:

• Shoot short videos no longer than 2 minutes in duration
• Shoot in bright light and make sure the light source is in front of the subject not behind
• If you're using a phone, PLEASE rotate it so you shoot a landscape video, not a portrait.  This will allow you to get your subject in the video without it being super tiny.  See the pictures below.
• Having someone film you will ensure the subject remains in the frame (important if you're riding or moving around in groundwork)
• Use a stand or tripod to eliminate shaky, jerky movements
• Do not use digital zoom; stand closer instead
• Send your videos to us using WeTransfer, to info@amazinghorsecountry.com.  Use the WeTransfer website, not the app.  Choose the free option and you don't have to create an account.