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Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

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Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#61

I'm surprised no one has mentioned using a teleprompter yet. You can pick one up for around $100 and when combined with a little 7" monitor (another $100) attached to your computer, creates a nice setup for zoom calls where you can look directly at your partner. Also doubles as a great talking head setup for video production.

Do you have a good telepromper recommendation? I have found it hard to search/find good ones at a good price.

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#62

If you're willing to throw $1000 at a "proper camera" of the sort the author recommends, then sure, it would be very disappointing if it didn't outperform the webcam built in to most laptops or phones. But is there a "proper camera" for under $100 that can also offer an improvement over a webcam?

At that budget you’d be better served getting a cheap lighting kit and a small to help push your webcam to its limits. Mount the webcam at eye level, pick a classic portrait lighting setup, and make every pixel work for you.

https://medium.com/@sukeshgtambi/24-portrait-character-light...

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#63

If you're willing to throw $1000 at a "proper camera" of the sort the author recommends, then sure, it would be very disappointing if it didn't outperform the webcam built in to most laptops or phones. But is there a "proper camera" for under $100 that can also offer an improvement over a webcam?

No. It comes down to sensor size and that doesn't come cheap

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#64
I agree with the blogger that you should go with a smaller sensor size. In addition to better price points, they have less scanning to do for each image and should work better for this scenario. I've heard reports of some full frame mirrorless cameras overheating when used extensively for video.

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#65

>Mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter and have almost entirely replaced DSLRs. I haven't paid attention to cameras in a while. Did I miss this happening?

Yes. Sony became as big of a player as Canon and Nikon because of it. Canon launched a new lens mount (RF) and announced they will stop producing EF lenses and flagship DSLRs. Nikon launched a new lens mount (Z).

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#66
post #55

But isn't running a camera as a Webcam actually bad for the battery, especially if you plan to use that camera also for trips?

I have a thing that replaces the battery with AC power supply. While the DSLR is being used as a webcam, it doesn't even contain a battery.

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#67
post #61

I'm surprised no one has mentioned using a teleprompter yet. You can pick one up for around $100 and when combined with a little 7" monitor (another $100) attached to your computer, creates a nice setup for zoom calls where you can look directly at your partner. Also doubles as a great talking head setup for video production.

Do you have a good telepromper recommendation? I have found it hard to search/find good ones at a good price.

I use the Caddie Buddy one [1], which is a bit more robust for bigger cameras. There are other options where you can use your phone or something, but I prefer using a mirrorless and a good sized monitor.

[1] https://caddiebuddy.com/teleprompter-for-ipads-androids-and-...

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#68

Maybe it's a bit overkill, but I use a Fuji X-T4 + Fuji 10-24mm lens as a webcam. At around $2500 definitely not cheap but it gets the job done magnificently. Additionally, the Fuji X Webcam software allows me to switch between Fuji's film simulations, adjust color temperature and exposure on the fly. The cam is mounted on a Manfrotto ballhead tripod behind my monitor.

What is the distance from you to the camera as you have it set up? Any issue with your monitors, etc coming into frame as well?

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#69

If you're willing to throw $1000 at a "proper camera" of the sort the author recommends, then sure, it would be very disappointing if it didn't outperform the webcam built in to most laptops or phones. But is there a "proper camera" for under $100 that can also offer an improvement over a webcam?

$100 can get you an excellent microphone with a boom arm and that will be appreciated by your colleagues much more than being able to count your stubble in 4K 60 fps.

I actually don't want colleagues to be able to inspect my face in immaculate detail, and the amount of ceremony and awkward stands begind the monitor, etc. do not make sence to me. The more expensive webcams do a decent enough job.

Re: Using a "proper" camera as a webcam

#70
post #25

Earlier quoted context omitted.

I’ve solved most compatibility problems with several camera brands (and their drivers) by simply using a hardware HDMI->USB video capture/processing card or stick. Then I can mount it as a generic video device and not install drivers at all, allowing me to switch cameras out at will.

Ah ha, thank you. Which device are you currently using?

Currently using an Atomos Connect since theyre compact and not expensive. Good luck!
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