It is not necessary to own a webcam for video conferencing, video chat, and even broadcasting events live over the Internet. Many digital cameras can do more than just act like a webcam, but perform much better than most of them.
Instructions
Step 1
Check your digital camera manual to see if it can be used as a webcam. Many digital cameras have this functionality and even come bundled with specialized software. Install this software on your computer. If this software is not included, use a webcam program such as SarmSoft Web Camera. Download and install this program on your computer. After the installation is complete, run it.
Step 2
Connect the AC adapter to your digital camera. Some of them will not function as a webcam until they are connected to an adapter. Even if the camera is battery-powered in web mode, connecting via the AC adapter conserves battery life and prevents the camera from turning off in the middle of shooting.
Step 3
Connect one end of the video cable to the video output of your digital camera and the other end to the input port of your video card. Turn on the camera and wait while the computer recognizes the new device. Make sure that a digital camera is also installed in the SarmSoft Web Camera settings.
Step 4
Install the camera as close to the monitor as possible. This will allow you to communicate face-to-face with another user. You can use a mini tripod to mount the camera.
Step 5
Sit one meter away from the digital camera. The focus of most cameras when used in web mode is better at this distance. Adjust various parameters such as zoom and focus.
Step 6
Use a separate microphone if your digital camera does not transmit audio when used as a webcam. Connect a microphone to the appropriate connector on your sound card. Put the camera in web mode.
