How can I use my Sony CAMERA as a webcam?

Imaging Edge Webcam lets you connect your Sony camera to a PC and use it as a high-quality webcam for live streaming or video conferencing.

Benefits of using your Sony camera as a webcam

How can I use my Sony CAMERA as a webcam?

1. The camera can capture faces with natural colors under any environmental conditions, including low light and back lighting.

How can I use my Sony CAMERA as a webcam?

2. A large sensor can make the subject stand out with a blurred background.

How can I use my Sony CAMERA as a webcam?

3. Auto-focusing keeps track of vivid facial expressions with Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking.

* Only when the camera supports the relevant functions.

How can I use my Sony CAMERA as a webcam?

4. Easy setup: Once you connect your camera to a PC with a USB cable, you only need to select the camera to be used in live streaming or video conference service.

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Following most of its rivals, Sony is helping you look better on Zoom calls with a software release that transforms its mirrorless, compact and DLSR cameras into webcams. The Imaging Edge Webcam app for Windows 10 works on models from the 2014 A7S up to the recent A7R IV and A6600 models. It also works on RX100 IV and later compact models, along with DSLRs back to the 2015 A68.

To make it work, you select your camera model, download the software and install it on your PC. Then, you adjust your camera’s settings (depending on the model) and connect it to your computer via a USB cable. From there, you can launch Zoom, WebEx or other videoconferencing app, and select your Sony camera from the webcam options.

Sony has some of the most popular mirrorless cameras right now, but was among the last to release a webcam app after Canon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, GoPro and others did. Since webcams have been scarce during the pandemic, the software will instantly give you a way to join video conferences and — most importantly — look better doing it.

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If you have a Sony Cybershot and the right connections on your computer, you may be able to use the digital camera as a webcam as well. Webcams are great for videoconferencing, both for business and for pleasure. Using your Sony digital camera as a webcam will save you money from needing to purchase an additional device, and would have the side benefit of reducing clutter on your desk. The process will take only about 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

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Connecing the Camera

Step 1

Plug the AC adapter into the camera, and the adapter into a power outlet. The webcam functionality will not work on the camera batteries.

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Step 2

Attach a video cable from the camera's "Video Out" jack to the analog video jack on your PC. Power up your digital camera, ensuring its set to the camera function (typically a picture of a camera on the selection dial).

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Step 3

Turn the PC on and load an application requiring the webcam. Enter the video settings for that application.

Step 4

Choose the "Video In" option within the application. If the camera has been connected properly and is powered on, you should see an image (yourself if the camera's pointed at you). Click "OK" to save these settings.

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Step 5

Ask a friend to help you test out the webcam functionality by starting a webcam chat with them. Ensure that the picture is being sent out properly. If so, you have completed the tutorial. Otherwise, check all settings.

Things You'll Need

  • Sony Cybershot

  • Camera power adapter

  • Analog video jack on your PC

  • Analog video cable

Tip

Some cameras have an auto off function. Ensure this is turned off or the camera may shut off during a webcam chat.

Warning

This setup will broadcast video only, unlike most webcams that broadcast both audio and video to the recipient. To send audio, you will have to set up a separate microphone.

How can I use Sony camera as webcam without capture card?

Using Imaging Edge Webcam software with a compatible Sony camera allows you to connect directly to the computer, no capture card required. The Imaging Edge Webcam software is free. To find out more about camera compatibility and to download go HERE.