Beginner
How to create your first screen recording on Loom
Quick Answer
To create your first screen recording on Loom, install the Loom extension or desktop app, click the Loom icon, select your recording preferences (screen + camera), and click Start Recording. After recording, Loom automatically processes and provides a shareable link.
Prerequisites
- Computer with camera and microphone
- Chrome browser or Loom desktop app installed
- Loom account (free or paid)
- Stable internet connection
1
Install and set up Loom
Go to loom.com and sign up for a free account. Install the Loom Chrome extension from the Chrome Web Store or download the desktop app. Once installed, you'll see the Loom icon in your browser toolbar or desktop.
Tip
The desktop app offers more features and stability for longer recordings.
2
Launch Loom and grant permissions
Click the Loom icon in your browser toolbar or open the desktop app. When prompted, grant permissions for camera access, microphone access, and screen recording. These permissions are required for Loom to function properly.
Tip
If permissions are blocked, check your browser settings under Privacy & Security > Site Settings.
3
Choose your recording type
In the Loom recording panel, select your recording mode:
- Screen + Camera: Records your screen with your webcam overlay
- Screen Only: Records just your screen
- Camera Only: Records just your webcam
Tip
You can adjust the camera bubble size and position after starting the recording.
4
Select your screen area
Choose what to record:
- Full Screen: Captures your entire screen
- Current Tab: Records only the active browser tab
- Desktop App: Records a specific application window
Tip
Current Tab is perfect for software demos and tutorials without showing other open applications.
5
Test your audio and camera
Before recording, check that your microphone shows green audio levels when you speak. Ensure your camera preview looks good with proper lighting. Click the microphone icon or camera icon to toggle them on/off if needed.
Tip
Use a headset or external microphone for better audio quality in your recordings.
6
Start recording
Click the large red Start Recording button. Loom will show a 3-second countdown, then begin recording. You'll see a small recording control panel with options to pause, restart, or finish your recording.
Tip
Take a moment to compose yourself during the countdown - it helps create a more professional start.
7
Record your content
Speak clearly and demonstrate what you want to show on screen. Use the drawing tools in the control panel to highlight important areas. Click Pause if you need a break, or Finish when you're done recording.
Tip
Keep your first recording short (2-3 minutes) to get comfortable with the process.
8
Review and share your recording
After clicking Finish, Loom automatically processes your video and opens it in a new tab. You can trim the beginning/end, add a title, and copy the share link. The link is automatically copied to your clipboard for easy sharing.
Tip
Videos are private by default - use the sharing settings to control who can view your recording.
Troubleshooting
Loom won't start recording or shows a black screen
Refresh your browser tab and try again. Make sure you've granted all permissions for camera, microphone, and screen recording. Try disabling other screen recording software that might conflict.
Audio is not being recorded or sounds muffled
Check your system's microphone settings and ensure the correct input device is selected. Close other applications that might be using your microphone. Test speaking louder or moving closer to your microphone.
Camera shows a black screen or wrong camera
Go to your browser settings > Privacy & Security > Camera and ensure Loom has access. If you have multiple cameras, click the camera settings in Loom to select the correct one.
Recording is choppy or has poor quality
Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications to free up system resources. Check your internet connection stability. Consider using the desktop app instead of the browser extension for better performance.
Ready to get started with Loom?
Put this tutorial into practice. Visit Loom and follow the steps above.
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