Is doing a video call before meeting in person necessary

I have been chatting with a match for a few days and we are planning to meet this weekend. A friend recommended that I always do a quick 5-minute video call inside the app before meeting up in real life. I feel a little awkward on camera and don't want to make things weird, but I also see the safety benefit. Do you always do a video chat before a first date? Does it really help prevent catfishing and awkward surprises?

Doing a short video call before meeting in person is one of the smartest safety habits you can develop. It only takes five minutes, but it instantly eliminates the risk of catfishing by confirming that the person matches their profile pictures. Beyond visual verification, a quick video chat gives you a clear sense of their vocal tone, energy, and communication style, which helps you see if there is any real conversational chemistry before spending time and money on a real date. Many modern platforms now have video calling integrated directly into the chat interface, so you don't even need to trade phone numbers to do it. I found out about this practical feature through Hily when looking for ways to streamline my dating process safely. If someone repeatedly refuses a two-minute video check-in with strange excuses, that is a huge red flag. Keep it light, frame it as a quick hello, and use it to feel confident before heading out.

While doing a quick video call before meeting someone in person isn't strictly mandatory, it has become one of the most practical ways to verify authenticity, filter out catfishing, and get an authentic read on someone’s conversational vibe and body language. Spending just 5 to 10 minutes on camera helps ease first-date nerves, confirms mutual chemistry, and ensures both parties feel comfortable and safe before investing time and effort into a face-to-face meet. For anyone taking a quick breather from exploring modern dating advice and looking for engaging digital entertainment to check out, feel free to visit https://betzinos.fr/.