Tools Of The Trade
Apr 17, 2020
Image by GoPro Fam Thomas Grana
You know you can use your GoPro to live stream-hopefully you've mastered that skill. But what if you're looking to liven up your video calls even more? Here's how we recommend you use GoPro as a webcam.
Using the action camera as a webcam will open up a whole new world of interesting POV opportunities-mount on the ceiling, wall, fan and anywhere in between-access to digital lenses signature GoPro wide angle views and, most importantly, quality! Anything that you stream from a GoPro will have pixel and color quality unmatched by standard external webcams. And finally, if you use a GoPro as a webcam, you'll walk away with a durable action camera that can follow you on future adventures-not just those confined to a home office.
Using a GoPro as a Webcam is pretty straightforward and easy to set up, too. We have outlined the additional devices needed below, as well as how to set up your GoPro with some of the popular video conferencing services like Zoom, WebEx and Skype. Happy webcaming!
First: Get the Gear
1. GoPro with a Micro HDMI port for HDMI output
2. HDMI-to-Micro HDMI Cable
3. HDMI-to-USB video converter
PRO TIP: We recommend Magewell or Elgato Cam Link 4k because they enable streaming at 1080p 60fps and offer offers low-latency, meaning minimal delay in the live video that's being transmitted.
This dongle essential because it acts as a converter to change the HDMI input into a webcam signal.
4. USB charging cord power source
5. Mounting option, which leads us to step 2.
Second: Set Up the Point of View
Yes, you can use a mount like the Magnetic Swivel Clip to attach the GoPro to your monitor or set up a Shorty tripod to serve as standard webcam vantage points. But it's a GoPro, so use it like a GoPro! Get creative, have fun and try something new. Some of our favorites are:
1. Jaws Flex Clamp - This bendable, clampable mount can provide an over-the-shoulder view if you're doing a training where it's helpful to see your screen.
2. Magnetic Swivel Clip - The magnet part of this mount is clutch for getting creative. Want to go live from under the hood of your car? Or chat with the fam while cooking? This magnetic will securely attach to your range hood, and any metal surface for that matter.
3. Suction Cup - Much like the first two, the GoPro Suction Cup can stick to a surface like a window or shelving unit to provide a webcam POV unlike any other. Our favorite give a top-down perspective that show your full work station.
Third: Establish the Streaming Tool
You can dial your GoPro in as a webcam on any video conferencing tool that allows you to select which camera you are streaming from. This includes Webex, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, Google Meetings, OBS and Wirecast.
Fourth: Set Up Your GoPro as a Webcam
Camera Setup
Turn GoPro camera on
Swipe down and select Preferences
Scroll down and select Input/Output
Select HDMI Output and change to Live
Hardware Setup
Mount your GoPro (see above for recommended mounts)
Open GoPro side door and insert micro-HDMI into the port
Plug HDMI side into the video capture device
Attach HDMI-to-USB converter and insert into your computer
Connect GoPro to a power source
Video Setup
OPTION 1: Setup video conferencing software:
Skype: Navigate to Settings > Audio Video > Camera.
Webex: Select Video Icon > Video Connection > click drop down select your camera
Zoom: Select arrow next to Start/Stop Video > Video Settings > Change your camera
If more than two cameras are available in the Zoom Room, you can dynamically choose which one is active by selecting it from a list when you tap Switch Camera.
OPTION 2: Setup OBS or similar:
Open Streamlabs OBS or other OBS and follow the workflow for adding a video source.
With OBS, you click the in the video source menu
Select Video Capture Device
Create New and name your video source
Select your hardware in the dropdown menu (i.e. Cam Link 4k) then click OK
The GoPro-turned-webcam will now show up on the display
PRO TIP: GoPro streams up to 1080p 60fps via an HDMI output, but most streaming services max out at 1080p30. Still, to ensure high quality and a crisp stream, make sure you have good lighting.
You are now ready to use your GoPro as a webcam.
As a reminder, the best GoPro cameras to use as a webcam are those with a micro-HDMI port, which includes the flagship HERO8 Black when paired with a Media Mod. GoPro cameras without HDMI outputs (like the 360 cameras MAX and Fusion or the ultra-tiny Session cameras) will not work as a webcam.
The full list of webcam-enabled GoPros include:
HERO8 Black Media Mod
HERO7 Black
HERO6 Black
HERO5 Black
HERO4 Black
If you're looking to learn more about an action camera for live streaming, check out this step-by-step tutorial on setting up a live stream with a GoPro.
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Tools Of The Trade 
