Most digital cameras come with HDMI outputs. If yours does not, look for a special USB cable and plug it into your computer. The smaller end of the cable should connect to your camera while the larger end should connect to your computer. If you don’t have an original cable, you can always purchase one from your camera manufacturer. Be sure to charge your camera before streaming, so it will be ready for use when you stream.
Alternatively, you can download free software that allows you to connect your camera to your computer. The software is called Canon EOS Webcam Utility Beta. After installing the software, connect your Canon camera to your computer. Turn on the movie mode and adjust the focus and exposure. Once connected, you can use your Canon camera as a webcam for video conferencing. After setting up the camera, you can use the software to start streaming video and audio from your computer.
In addition to the USB output, some Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras come with software to make them work as webcams. However, point and shoot cameras generally won’t produce high-quality images as webcams. DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras, on the other hand, offer higher resolution images and HDMI outputs. If you decide to use a point-and-shoot camera, remember to use a tripod and avoid balancing the camera on something.
