Recording on Zoom: Best Practices
There are two settings in the Video Tab that might be of interest to anybody who will be filmed in the
recording:
1) The Touch up my appearance option. This will put a slight blur on the image to smooth out skin tones.
2) Be sure to enable HD.
In the Audio Settings Tab, the speaker and microphone you’re using can be directly tested for input and
output. Pressing Test Speaker will play a ringtone that will illustrate how you will hear other attendees. The
Test Mic button will allow you to record your voice, and playback how it will sound to others. You can adjust
the input/output on the sliding bar below each.
You can also Suppress Background Noise at a higher level, or just leave it as Auto to cut out ambient noise.
Recording Settings
Before starting to record, you’ll want to re-visit your recording settings. It’s important to distinguish which
versions of video you want to record. First, select Optimize for 3
rd
party video editor so that post-production
is easier.
Record active speaker with shared screen: Most recordings should be done this way. It allows for any shared
content to be the primary focus, while also highlighting who’s speaking.
Record gallery view with shared screen: Same as above, except all attendees are recorded in a gallery view.
Can be distracting.
Record active speaker, gallery view and shared screen separately: Quite complex, and should only be used in
specific instances.
Beyond those three, you’re able to customize the remaining check-boxes to your liking, but keep in mind that
each recording variant is its own file, and it will take up Cloud Recording space.
Equipment for Recording
You’ll want to make sure you have a webcam that can display in HD, and a microphone that adequately
catches your voice. Natural lighting is recommended, but you may also want to experiment with how different
lighting appears on camera. (avoid backlighting; basic lightning technique link)
If you’re in need of any equipment, you may visit IT’s Equipment Loaner page.
For additional help, contact media@santarosa.edu or call a Media Tech at (707) 527-4771
To sign up for a focused workshop, visit our SRJC Zoom Training page.
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