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CLOS vs a Zoom/FaceTime Photoshoot

Short answer

A Zoom or FaceTime call is free and fine for grabbing a quick reference frame, but you only capture a compressed video stream. CLOS triggers the phone's real camera sensor, so you get full-resolution JPG or RAW files with control over focus, exposure, and white balance, saved to the cloud. Use a call for rough references; use CLOS for any real deliverable.
CLOS vs a Zoom/FaceTime Photoshoot
Factor CLOS Zoom / FaceTime screenshot
SourceReal camera sensorCompressed video stream
ResolutionFull-res JPG / RAW (DNG)Limited by call quality
Camera controlFocus, ISO, shutter, WB— auto only
Lens optionsTelephoto / ultra-wide— fixed framing
VideoH.264/H.265, ProRes on EnterpriseScreen-recorded stream
DeliverySaved to cloud in real timeManual screenshots
CostFree / Pro from $7.99/moFree

When to choose CLOS

  • The deliverable must be full-resolution or RAW for print or retouching.
  • You need to art-direct focus, exposure, ISO, shutter, and white balance.
  • You want telephoto or ultra-wide framing, not a fixed webcam crop.
  • Files should be saved to the cloud automatically as you shoot.
  • You need video at proper codecs rather than a screen recording.

When a video call fits better

  • You just need a quick reference frame to confirm a pose or angle.
  • Quality does not matter and a low-res grab is good enough.
  • You want a free, zero-setup option for a casual check-in.
  • No final assets are required, only a live look at the scene.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do a real photoshoot over Zoom? +
You can screenshot a Zoom or FaceTime call, but you only capture a compressed video frame. For full-resolution or RAW deliverables you need a tool like CLOS that triggers the actual camera sensor.
Why are Zoom screenshots low quality? +
Video calls compress the stream to save bandwidth, so a screenshot is limited by call quality and codec. It is not the same as the camera capturing a full-resolution still.
What does CLOS capture instead? +
CLOS remotely controls the phone camera to take full-resolution JPG or RAW (DNG/Apple ProRaw) stills and video, with control over focus, exposure, ISO, shutter, and white balance.
Is Zoom ever the better choice? +
Yes. For a quick, free reference frame or a casual angle check where final quality is irrelevant, a video call is perfectly fine and faster to start.
How are CLOS files delivered? +
Files stream to the cloud in real time during the session, so the team sees and keeps full-resolution assets without manual screenshots.

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