A preferred embodiment of a video conferencing system that may employ a video camera capable of capturing a view approximating 360 degrees, a viewing screen positioned to allow natural eye contact between conference participants, and a processing module capable of receiving and processing multiple data streams from video and audio capturing devices as well as data streams from other sources. In some embodiments, the video camera may be mounted above or below the viewing screen to capture an approximately 360 degree view of all locally appearing participants as well as the surrounding conference environment. The video conferencing system allows multiple participants participating from a single location to communicate easily and maintain natural eye contact with one another while maintaining eye contact with persons appearing from remote locations.