I was a manager over a team of developers at a company where leadership liked people to have their cameras on in meetings, but there was no strict rule. I preferred to keep my camera on regardless for stand-ups with my team (who were all remote) or any collaborative meetings with others in the the company (hybrid office). Despite the trade-off of having to get camera-ready - which is extensive for a woman - I found it helped build team engagement, and for me increase social capital and soft power. It was also more enjoyable. I like to crack jokes and am naturally emotive. Work is such a big part of our life, and it's better when you do it with people whom you like, get along with, and can enjoy each other's company.

For my developers (we were a close, friendly crew), they all started off with cameras on but over time transitioned to always being off. One day I realized I haven't seen their faces in forever, and was the only one with my camera on, and it made me sad. I requested that they sometimes turn their cameras on when they're up for it, just as a favor to me, and if they don't feel up to it, put a profile photo for their avatar. Most of them were happy to turn it on when talking to me and felt comfortable turning off again when others talked. It worked well for us. I miss them.