Zoom Cloud Recording¶
Stage: Produce → Record
Score: 2
Evidence: Practitioner observation
What It Is¶
Recording a Zoom call using the cloud recording option, which saves files to Zoom's servers. Cloud recording produces a heavily compressed mixed video and can provide separate audio tracks, but with lower quality than local recording.
Why It Gets a 2¶
Zoom cloud recording produces heavily compressed video that is not suitable for production. The video is a mixed composite — you cannot isolate individual participants. Audio quality is lower than local recording due to cloud processing. It exists as a convenience feature, not a production tool.
What You Get¶
| Output | Quality | Isolated? |
|---|---|---|
| Video (active speaker) | 720p compressed | ❌ Single mixed view |
| Video (gallery) | 720p compressed | ❌ Single mixed view |
| Audio | Compressed | ✅ Separate tracks possible (lower quality than local) |
| Transcript | Auto-generated | N/A |
When To Use¶
- Meeting recordings that may be repurposed later (not planned production)
- Situations where local recording is not possible (restricted devices, IT policies)
- Capturing webinars where the primary value is the content, not the production quality
When Not To Use¶
- Any planned podcast, webinar, or owned media recording session
- Any show requiring per-person video isolation
- Any production workflow that feeds into rough cut or mastering
- When any alternative recording platform is available