How to Use Camera as Webcam

In this step-by-step tutorial, learn how to use a DSLR, Mirrorless & other cameras, like Nikon, Canon, Sony, Leica, Samsung, Olympus, Pentax, Panasonic, and GoPro as a webcam on your PC. As a web cam, you can use these cameras in Microsoft Teams, Zoom Video Conferencing and Cisco Webex Meetings. Instantly improve the way you look to your audience. Traditional web cams have poor quality and don't compare to high-end cameras.
👋 Resources called out in this video:
- DIGITNOW Capture Card (I haven't personally used this before although reviews look positive) - $20 - amzn.to/349Jh4r
- Elgato Cam Link 4k (I use this capture card)- $130 - amzn.to/3kQKR1U
- Generic Camera Power Adaptor for continuous camera power (this works with my Sony camera) - $29 - amzn.to/2GqbCuU
- Micro HDMI to HDMI cable to connect camera to Capture Card - $14 - amzn.to/34e9zmh
- My Sony mirrorless camera: amzn.to/3cJl09f
⌚ Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
1:35 Capture card
2:53 Power adaptor
3:31 Micro HDMI to HDMI Cable
4:02 Install software and drivers
4:47 Set up external camera in Microsoft Teams
5:34 Set up external camera in Webex Meetings
6:22 Set up external camera in Zoom video conferencing
6:53 Wrap up
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[@SilentLocationsbyJohnBengtson]

Thank you so much Kevin. I’ve studied about 30 of your tutorials so far and have learned so much. Very helpful indeed. Take care - John

[@travelwell6049]

Thanks, another great video. Kinda needed this back in March when I was getting set-up, but I have at least another 4 months working from home, so this will definitely be useful on days I decide to get dressed and put a comb through my hair. 👍

[@think-income3499]

Thanks for another highly pragmatic presentation, Kevin.

[@sfbluestar]

Thank you. Your videos are always very helpful.

[@TylerStanczak]

The day laptops come out with internal cameras that are as good as a high quality camera will be amazing. For now, I like this work around you suggested :)

[@KevinStratvert]

True, lots of laptop manufacturers are already starting to improve their webcams since the pandemic started since so many people are much more reliant on their webcams. Even if they get better though, it's still hard to compete with the glass on a DSLR or mirrorless camera.

[@TylerStanczak]

Kevin Stratvert that’s such a great point. :)

[@mdhidayat5706]

Thanks Kevin, useful tips especially i know now i dont need to buy a webcam when a camera does so much better

[@ChloeTheNailTechsCoachReed]

Thank you so much for this video it was all the information that I needed!

[@streetstrong566]

You make things so simple. Great job

[@jamesgeorge8703]

That was really cool. Thanks a ton bro.....

[@wonseokjoo72]

Thank you for your kind explanation

[@ankitghosh160]

Nice Video Kevin, as always ....again love from India : )♥

[@maruthirahulmssv2678]

GODDAMN KEVIN YOU'RE KILLIN IT MY MAN!!!!! KEEP UP THE GOOOD CONTENT AND THANKS FOR THE HELP

[@brigittegoderiecorporateev4220]

Hi Kevin, great tutorials, very clear and helpful! I've a question: I run teams meetings with external cameras and a switcher, this is running smooth. I add also Picture-in-Picture slides to the stream. But when I want to playout a movie from e.g. a Macbook and this signal went also through the mixer to Teams the movie doesn't run smooth. Sometimes the image is buffering but the sound is running through. Any idea?

[@yt_bharat]

Most awesome channel for pro tips. Thanks brother

[@Godwin-VIDEO_EDITOR]

Very informative, thank you

[@uniquecook4773]

Thanks very much Kevin. Ausumn tutorial

[@katinakingston2849]

Very useful, thank you very much.

[@rtalluri63]

Great video. Very useful. I will try it with my A7R3

[@HeroicCoachDan]

Hi Kevin, This was great yet I'm overwhelmed with the brief information. I'll need to watch this a couple of time with great focus and attention. I am not tech. savvy, yet it has been suggested that I upgrade my laptop webcam to improve my video presence for podcast hosting and podcast interviews. It seems from this video a reasonable webcam would be easier.

[@YourBoiBear]

Bro this guy is true legend I’m proud that world has such a great life saver bro 😊

[@abdullaalhammadi2479]

Thanks Kevin for your video

[@juanpalao6417]

at last, one very precise non bullshit video, just what I was looking for thnks a bunch

[@marylouise890]

THANK YOU KEVIN 👍

[@chrisdevos1594]

Please do a video on how to use teams and teams live for hybrid events. Thanks

[@Ziad_Hadri]

Thank you Kevin, great video as always. I have a question about the MS teams use case Is possible to use an external camera (Hero 6 in my case) and make it the default camera for video calls from my mobile device The go pro can be connected via Wi-Fi and 4G can be used for the internet connection, but I don't seem to find the same steps for configuration on the mobile app

[@ProfGilRodrigues]

Thank you.

[@YOGAAF]

thankyou mr kevin

[@susanarodriguez9830]

Thank you

[@_t.p]

Thanks so much for another great video! Can you please do one on microphones? I’m a trainer and would like some tips on how to set up a microphone so my audio quality is better for my online lessons :)

[@KevinStratvert]

Sure, I'll put this on my list. I personally use the Rode NT USB mic ($170 at Amazon): kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4TMe4GoeZp4sJo The Rode NT USB Mini is also very good ($100): kzbin.info/www/bejne/aovSfJmglLqqe7c

[@AchieveNowEmpoweringDyslexics]

SUPER helpful. Thank you. Using my DSLR improves the quality greatly but when using Camtasia I cannot see how I look until editing afterwards. Obviously when in the camera ap I can see how I look as I film and don't have to wait until editing to realise something is out of place and have to refilm. Hence I planned to use the Camera ap but I can no longer record video now I am using my DSLR. The camera just makes clicking sounds. The DSLR works fine with Camtasia. I don't want to pay for another video creation tool. What am I doing wrong? Thank you.

[@MuhammadPro18]

Hi Kevin, can you show how to use the OBS camera in Microsoft Teams?

[@chelin7023]

Hi Kevin! What about the cámara? What settings should be used for this purpose?

[@muhy9247]

Thank you Kevin learn alot from your video , May you please tell me how you make zoom on you videos while you are talking thank you ,

[@KevinStratvert]

Here you go: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWncdJWKoaeVZqs

[@participantformation3931]

Well, thanks for your advices. In fact, I have a question about the Webcam Viewer software : is it possible to put a wallpaper brind the guy speaking ? Thanks in advance.

[@jimshaw899]

Thanks. 1. What are the better economical lighting options for lighting a single headshot for meetings? Ring light? How big? 2. Is there an easy way to implement a "cough box" on the mic audio feed to avoid coughs and throat clearings?

[@KevinStratvert]

Thanks for the note Jim! On lighting, 'DSLR Video Shooter' has some amazing videos. Here's an economical lighting setup that he recommends (it's about $100): kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXqpXol9a553d7c On coughing, I always just use the mute button as a simple solution :)

[@unboxingbysaswot9336]

can you make a video on how to setup virtual camera for MS Teams?Please......

[@Pirro777]

I am using iMac and Elagato Web Link 4K, have tested it with Live Teams event and Quick Movie, but I am getting a voice lag all the time. I don't know how to fix it and it is very frustrating. Any advice to resolve this will be highly appreciated.

[@scottgies]

Hi Kevin, What microphone were you using in this video? Thanks!

[@djokotriono7787]

the top your head is cut off is that intentional? Good channel!

[@prithviswarmitra2485]

Can you please make a video on Shotgun Microphones and how to operate them for videos?

[@CollisReed]

Kevin, countless times now, I've watched your videos and immediately applied it to the work that I'm doing. You have become an extremely valuable resource transitioning my business to virtual operations especially during COVID. Is there a way, to set up MS Teams so that you can show half the screen as power point presentation without any chrome and half the screen with a view of the your participants? After watching yesterday's video I realized I could split the screen while showing output from an MS Forms participant survey, while displaying all the participants on the other half of the screen. Is there a way to do the same with power point in presentation mode?

[@KevinStratvert]

I think this will help you... let me know if this doesn't solve it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHe0fZSkgJx6n5Y

[@CollisReed]

@@KevinStratvert Yes! Opening a presentation in a new window is exactly the solution I was looking for. Thank you Kevin.

[@ROAMTAJOGI]

Will be a speaker on zoom webinar tomorrow. Any tips for me kevin? This video will surely help me to improve my camera quality from the laptop cam to a specialised came. Thank You

[@KevinStratvert]

Here's a video I did on communications recently. It's a good refresher anytime you communicate out to an audience: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6Szp5Roppt4grs

[@ohsballer]

Would love to do this but my job's IT has my computer locked down for any new software installs

[@bobbyman410]

Hi Kevin. Could you please make a video on which video editor you use?

[@KevinStratvert]

I currently use Cyberlink PowerDirector but I'm looking to switch to Davinci Resolve 16. I'm planning something on this soon.

[@hicazkarpesrev3135]

Hi Kevin, what is the solution for fujifilm x cameras?thx

[@HelmiFarouk]

Thank you Kevin really helpful video. Can you tell me what I need in terms of equipment (I have a laptop) to deliver online training? wide-angle as I will be standing while delivering the training, I will have a flipchart...etc

[@KevinStratvert]

Are you asking about camera equipment? I personally have a Sony A6500 (it's an older model now)... wide-angle should be good if you're going to be pointing out a bunch of things around you.

[@HelmiFarouk]

@@KevinStratvert I have Nikon D90, I have not tried yet. Thanks for the reply...

[@someshvarvashisht6726]

HI ! kevin! If I do not want the recorded meeting( class) to be accessible to students, is it possible? Some cultural issues ...

[@chickygu]

Hi Kevin, does Teams mobile app support external camera?

[@patricktien9791]

I'm thinking of using Teams and an external camera so that I can live stream student performances so parents/grandparents can now watch. The one good thing about Covid is coming up with these types of solutions. Now families can watch that normally cannot.

[@janetnoland4723]

Hey All, is it possible to get one of those hidden cameras to Microsoft Teams, so you can walk around and show the board while you teach your kids?

[@spartanwarr5935]

How do you setup multiple cameras wirelessly to use in live streaming

[@christineryerson3230]

Can you use this to just make videos that teach not necessarily for Teams or Meetings?

[@igor2011]

i think maybe you should remember that every applications (teams, zoom, webex...etc..)apply a compression to the video to send it out to the world. So even if you record in 4k, probably interlocutors will see you in 720p, the most widespread quality adopted, loosing a big part of the quality.

[@charzong]

Kevin, How to cast your phone to your TV with same WiFi?

[@emarquezd]

awesome

[@science_tube]

Hello kevin, Your videos are very helpfull for me, as me work as a professional. I need to connect my I Pad pro to my windows laptop through wire, and thn use it on Microsoft Teams. I want to use my i pad as writting device. Plz help.

[@KevinStratvert]

That should work through this technique as well. Instead of the Micro HDMI to HDMI cable, you'll also need a Lightning to HDMI adaptor and an HDMI cable to connect to a capture card: amzn.to/33eMgt2 You can then connect your iPad pro to your PC.

[@TechforToastmasters]

The generic $20 capture cards are branded differently but are essentially the same. I use the one branded as BlueAVS. It is the same as linked by you. These work much better than CAMLINK because Camlink is not compatible with all cameras (It does not work for almost all Nikon models). These generic ones work just fine (1080p though. No 4K).

[@KevinStratvert]

Good call. Yeah, I've watched some comparison videos and the quality between a $20 vs. $130 capture card is hardly noticeable.

[@Kabirchopra0309]

@@KevinStratvert hi

[@ashsanders7487]

Is there an action camera that you can use wirelessly?

[@deepthikiran3450]

Can I use phone camera as webcam for these meetings? By using driodcam app

[@sreelalisb8388]

How can i connect a nikon coolpix l820 cam for youtube streaming

[@tanujasingh7184]

Hi Kevin can you make a video on new software which is coming on office.com.That app is Family safty

[@that_swiftie13]

Hi Kevin. Can You please make a video on how to use the morph effect in PowerPoint.

[@KevinStratvert]

Sure, I'll add to my list. Cheers!

[@that_swiftie13]

@@KevinStratvert Thanks

[@mrnobody5763]

Sorry, a question for everyone, if you use a camera as webcam, coud you incurr in overheating problems or run out of space in the ssd? Does the camera write somewhere when used as webcam?

[@basdfgwe]

This was great until you mentioned that you have download and install software. Is there an option (dongle or something else) where you don't need to install additional software ? Most companies, when you're using their devices won't let you install third party software.

[@sukhnilchowdhury]

I have a IXUS 155. Can I use it as a webcam?

[@ava3814]

Can any one tell me how to remove your picture so it's just the initials nevause there is no option to remove the photo

[@iDATUS]

Wow, the dummy battery power idea. Didn't even think of this one. Found one for my Olympus Em5 Mk3 (not happy with Olympus butchering 4k to include a battery icon).

[@landlordsbuyinggroupcanada6579]

I have a Nikon D5100, once connected an the settings show the camera is connected, the video doesn't come through? I'm using Microsoft teams Any help will be appreciated !

[@kumalala5238]

Hey Kevin, can u tell us how to get more screen resolution for making KZbin videos and to watch KZbin videos

[@KevinStratvert]

Can you tell me more? Are you looking to make higher resolution videos? Much of that depends on the camera you use. For instance, I use a Sony A6500 and record all my footage in 4k.

[@kumalala5238]

@@KevinStratvert not for like recording with cameras like recording screen display and to make my PC's screen resolution higher

[@madhumitadeb1446]

Big fan Kevin sit

[@ss_hoIe]

Im using redmi 9a. How many kb/s will it counsume?

[@aderaldojunior]

I'm wondering...Do you think this idea would be possible using a Sony ANDROID TV with Teams installed on it?🤔

[@sarahconnor7482]

Question: Why can't I just plug in my camera with the USB-C charging cable instead of using a power adapter? Will it ruin the battery to be charging it and using it at the same time?

[@LvfeStyleBrazy]

What camera u use

[@sathvikallamsetty6726]

I'm a simple, I see Kevin Sir uploaded new video. I Click.

[@Mazza2809]

I am doing everything how you described to ser-up in Teams using an Elgato but I can only see the built-in MacBook camera on the list of devices available. Any ideas, please?

[@niklaswikstrom78]

Microsoft Teams doesn't allow virtual cameras anymore, so at the moment no software "camera" application will work with Teams.

[@jcinaz]

All of that works fine for older computers with really poor built-in cameras. Today's new computers have at least a 720p and many have a 1080p camera. My Apple laptop camera is far better than the $94 1080p Logitech webcam that I use as an alternate. Even the 720p front-facing camera on my iPhone has better quality. That said, good job in identifying the alternatives for a poor quality webcam. It still might be easier to buy a really expensive, high quality webcam than go through the hassle of extra hardware and software.

[@peculiarint.school626]

Kevin, I agree with TOP FIVE. give him or her a shoutout. Or am i wrong?????

[@kaviyarasisivaraman9688]

Sir, question is not relevant to the content here, but still helpin clarifying this. During meeting I want to give them test & monitor my students. If all 70 students switch on camera, will it be a problem and how can I monitor all , already I watched your video related to together mode. Please clarify Kevin.

[@aviralmishraofficial1626]

Hey Kevin, please tell me how much disk space does OBS studio take up?

[@KevinStratvert]

I believe the OBS app uses a couple hundred MB. All-in-all, the disk usage is fairly low for the app. The video that you end up recording will consume much more space 😄

[@aviralmishraofficial1626]

@@KevinStratvert thanks brother

[@theretrogamer5930]

can you tell a way to use external cam like DSLR without a capture card

[@KevinStratvert]

Most camera manufactures these days provide the ability to connect the camera via USB and to use as a webcam without needing to purchase additional equipment. The resolution and frame rate won't be quite as good. The approach depends on the camera manufacturer.

[@kevinkentponio3909]

Sir how can can i double the writing in free editor in windows?

[@yt_bharat]

Means?

[@kevinkentponio3909]

@@yt_bharat the writing

[@uniquecook4773]

By spilting the video and then adding text as I do

[@shiulimondal179]

Hi Kevin I am your new subscriber and I saw your Iriun webcam video and it was so helpful. Actually I don't know how to share a high quality video. If I use WhatsApp so the whole video will not go at a time and if I use gmail so it only allows to send the file of 25 mb or under. So I request you to cover this topic. Thanks love from India 💗😍

[@KevinStratvert]

Will do! As a quick note, I'd recommend uploading to KZbin, Google Drive, or another cloud provider. You can then share a link to the video.

[@AmitabhAnkur]

Use a Video Transcoder. Handbrake is best and open source. Kevin you should add handbrake in your list.

[@shiulimondal179]

Thank you so much. I uploaded the video in Google drive and shared and I can see in the other device perfectly. Thanks once again❤️ you don't know how much that worth for me🥺

[@trevor.yardley]

Hi Kevin, I'm using one of the cheaper capture devices, similar to the alternative you showed. My Sony a6000 camera only puts out 1080p and not 4k, so I elected not to spend money on the Camlink. However, I'm wondering if you have compared the Camlink with the cheaper options and, if so, did you see significant differences in performance?

[@trevor.yardley]

P.S. I'm using OBS to capture the source

[@sudeshsharma6705]

Lovely can you plz show how to sign in in Google Classroom plz

[@KevinStratvert]

This video walks through signing into Google Classroom (along with how to use Google Classroom)... hope that helps! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZ3Zd5-odpd4aKM

[@user-ow7tb4ph9x]

If you don’t have a cam link, which software do you have to install

[@KevinStratvert]

It'll depend on what type of capture card you end up getting. I'd follow the guidance for your specific capture card.

[@charalamposkounes5071]

Was hoping to see a video without capture card .... great video though

[@vatsalasawanak4643]

It's sad that you have left Microsoft but then too I must say that you are improving too fast. And that what life is all about. There are ups and downs in one's life otherwise a straight line always represents death.👍🏻👍🏻

[@KeysOnfireByAPSRathore]

I have sony cybershot can I use it

[@KevinStratvert]

As long as you have an HDMI output, that should work as well.

[@sweetpappa]

How to use the USB cable to use a DSLR camera as a webcam?

[@tomioka.6703]

Can you do a free version? I.e. no capture cards

[@KevinStratvert]

Many camera manufactures (e.g. Sony, Canon, Nikon, etc.) these days provide the ability to connect the camera via USB and to use as a webcam without needing to purchase additional equipment. The only downside is that the quality will be limited. For instance, with Sony, you're limited to up to 720p at 15fps. It's not bad and it'll still beat your webcam, but for best quality, a capture card is the way to go so you can take advantage of the full quality of your camera.

[@tomioka.6703]

Kevin but, I don't have an option in my sony CyberShot camera! It also shows only MTP and Power charging and Automatic. Please help you'll be a whole ton of help! Love your vids

[@ulugtilla1496]

Hi Kevin, Is anybody can see my screen in google meet without my permission during the meeting?

[@dennisverduz6289]

👍👍👏👏

[@duty3581]

Does it work for Google meet?

[@KevinStratvert]

Yes! It should work with Google Meet as well.

[@la28quinn79]

How to use outlook as To Do

[@KevinStratvert]

Outlook is OK as a task manager. I'd recommend using To Do instead: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g3TGZmmNqraAoM0

[@charalamposkounes5071]

👍

[@aleksanderstrommer7677]

Maybe you should mention that with canon eos utility you only need usb cable, so capture card is not necessary. Also other brands like Fujifilm is similar, but only certain cameras are compatible, not all.

[@KevinStratvert]

That's true, excellent point. I believe most camera manufactures these days provide the ability to connect the camera via USB and to use as a webcam without needing to purchase additional equipment. The only reason I didn't call it out is that resolution and frame rate are fairly limited. With Sony for instance, you're limited to up to 720p at 15fps. It's not bad and it'll still beat your webcam, but for best quality, a capture card is the way to go so you can take advantage of the full quality of your camera.

[@neejaynl]

[@stevejessemey8428]

Why not Just buy the best Logitech webcam that has a great performance?

[@KevinStratvert]

That's definitely a good option, although even high end web cams still don't come close to competing with a high end professional camera with lenses.

[@alanj7358]

I am First