Aims This article reflects the author’s experience of qualitative interviews during his research project. It attempts to highlight how recording interviews can affect data collection and data quality.

Background While recording helps researchers keep accurate records of interviews, which in turn assists them during their data analysis, its effect on data quality has not been clarified in nursing literature.

Discussion The research experience highlighted that interview participants, especially those involved in group interviews, were reluctant to give permission for recording and were less comfortable and more formal when being recorded.

Conclusion The preparation for, and how the interview is carried out, can either reduce or further accentuate the effect of interviewing and recording on the participant. Therefore, appropriate strategies to reduce the effects should be implemented.

Implications for research/practice This article suggests strategies to minimise the effects of interviewing and recording of interviews on the participants and hence enhance the quality of data obtained.