Written by:
Our posts contain affiliate links. Sometimes, not always, we may make $$ when you make a purchase through these links. No Ads. Ever. Learn More
Table of Contents_
The influence of live streaming continues to spread into all areas of online life. As a result, content creators are constantly looking for the best webcams to suit their needs. While many have a fixed idea of what traditional webcams are _supposed _to look like, many forget that other cameras can function as outstanding video devices. To prove it, we’re here to instruct you on how to use a GoPro as a webcam as an external device.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
And the fun doesn’t stop here. We have a gaggle of helpful how-to guides, like how to use a DSLR as a webcam or how to use an IP webcam.
Insider Tip
While GoPros do not need to be used as webcams, you can install a video capture card to increase video output quality.
GoPros aren’t just useful as video capture devices for kayak or ski trips. Sure, they’re great in the wilderness, but they can also produce outstanding video streams from home. And the best part is that setting up your GoPro as a webcam is shockingly simple and only takes a few steps.
For those with PCs, it may be helpful to read our article on how to use an external webcam on a laptop with Windows 10. And likewise, for gamers, we have a separate instructional on how to use Kinect as a webcam.
And lastly, if you go through all this and run into issues. We have a detailed guide explaining the common reasons why a webcam isn’t working.
Connect your GoPro to your computer via a USB cable. On your computer, download and access the GoPro Quick app and ensure you have the latest updates to your device.
Download and install the GoPro Webcam Desktop Utility software app from the GoPro website. Once it’s downloaded, you should see a GoPro icon pop up on your computer’s taskbar.
Power on your GoPro. As you do this, you should see a blue dot appear over the GoPro icon on your taskbar. The blue dot signifies you have made a successful connection.
Click on the GoPro icon, and a drop-down menu will appear. There will be an option for “View Preview.” Press this settings menu button to open the webcam mode.
In the video feed, there will be options to adjust the camera orientation, the resolution, and the lens to have a narrow or wide-angle view.
Warning
Many older GoPro models do not have the firmware necessary to run the webcam function.
STAT: A GoPro’s built-in battery will last about 1.5 to 2 hours. (source)
References: