Are DSLR Cameras Good For Streaming & How Can You Use One As A Webcam?

DSLR cameras often offer better image quality and more flexibility, that's why I still prefer it over my smartphone for taking pictures. That's why it's also ideal for recording myself when I'm streaming, as I could use the DSLR's shallower depth of field (if paired with a fast-aperture lens) to make myself pop out from my background. Even if I had one of the best DSLR cameras, it should be more than enough to use for streaming.

Note that while DSLR cameras offer great image quality for your streams, it does have a couple of disadvantages, too. For one, it's large and bulky, meaning you cannot simply place it on top of your monitor. If you want to use a DSLR setup on your PC or Mac, you need a tripod on your desk or set up beside your system if it's too large to fit on your table. Aside from that, you likely need spare batteries or an AC adapter for the camera. That way, you don't have to worry about running out of power while you're in the middle of your stream. Furthermore, you need the correct equipment and cables to connect it to your computer.

If you're willing to deal with all the hassle just to get the best camera quality possible, here's how you can set up your DSLR as a webcam. There are two ways to go about this, with the first one requiring some extra equipment. However, don't forget to put up some lighting around your PC to get the best stream quality possible.

One of the ways to turn your DSLR camera into a webcam is to use its HDMI output port and connect it to your PC via capture card. This is often the easiest way to do it, as you don't need any extra software from the camera manufacturer to record your video. The downside here is that your camera must have an HDMI output port, you need the proper HDMI cable — many cameras use mini-HDMI ports — and you must have an HDMI capture card. Fortunately, capture cards are pretty affordable, and you can find one like the Elgato Cam Link 4K on Amazon for under $100.

With this setup, all you need is to plug in your devices as needed, and your computer should be able to detect your DSLR camera as any other webcam or video source. You can then use it with streaming software, like OBS, so you can overlay your face on your video stream. Or you could connect it directly to your favored streaming platform like Facebook and use it as a camera.

One more advantage to this setup is you can use your camera's built-in microphone to combine audio or video. Alternatively, you can attach an external microphone directly to your camera (provided it has a mic-in jack) to ensure that your video and audio are synchronized while you're streaming.

If you stream frequently, this might be the best solution, as it reduces software setup and will easily work with your already existing tools. You just need to invest a few dollars on extra equipment and cables, but you'll be able to use it for a long time.

On the other hand, if you're just experimenting with your DSLR or you don't want to spend extra money on equipment, you could also use your DSLR as a webcam if it has a USB cable port. Note that instructions will vary depending on the manufacturer and model of your camera, but you generally need to download a specific app for it so that your computer can recognize the camera.

For example, I have a Canon EOS 200D Mk II, and I need the Canon EOS Webcam Utility app to use it for streaming. On the other hand, if you have a Sony or Nikon camera, you need to use the app provided by the manufacturer and follow its instructions to connect your gear.

However, this might not deliver the same image quality compared to connecting your camera via HDMI, or it might have a few limitations, like requiring a subscription to unlock extra features. But if your camera doesn't have HDMI output, or you don't have an HDMI capture card, connecting your DSLR camera via USB could help save your day.