Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to video-conferencing systems configured and operated to create eye contact between video conference participants. In one embodiment, video conferencing system includes a display, a video camera positioned to capture a video image of a first video conference participant through the display, and a projector positioned to project a video image of a second video conference participant onto the display screen such that the first participant can view the second participant. The display screen is positioned between the first participant and the video camera. The video camera and the projector can be operated during a video conference to establish eye contact between the first participant and the second participant by creating a line-of-sight that passes through a point of the head of the second participant's image between the video camera and the first participant.