How to use GoPro as webcam? There are different ways of using your GoPro camera as a webcam despite its version. However, GoPro Hero 3 and older cameras do not have built-in webcam functionality. Initially, GoPro did not recommend using the newer cameras as webcam as well. However, there was a wonderful way around it that is using a capture card.
You do not need to use this method anymore as GoPro has released a great desktop app or utility. It converts their newer versions into webcams without using anything else.
This article explains how to use GoPro as webcam for both older and newer models.
How to Use GoPro Hero 8 and Later as a Webcam?
Things you need to convert your GoPro to a webcam include your smartphone, your computer, a USB cable, GoPro Webcam Utility, and your camera.
First of all, you need to upgrade the firmware in the GoPro app
- Open the GoPro app on your smartphone
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner
- Choose Update Firmware
- Now follow the steps as needed
The next step is downloading and installing GoPro Webcam Utility in your Windows. You must restart the computer for it to work.
- Now, select the GoPro app
- A small GoPro icon will appear in the lower right-hand corner.
- It will be in the tray at the bottom in the case of Mac.
Now, use a USB cable to connect your GoPro to your computer. The GoPro icon will have a blue dot once the connection is made.
Your camera’s battery will drain quickly if you connect the camera to a computer. What you can do is to use a powered USB outlet. Using a powered USB port also enables you to remove the battery from the camera.
The last step is opening your video or streaming app such as OBS or Zoom. GoPro should appear under the Camera as an option. Simply select it and start your conference.
Mostly, you will use the desktop app instead of the browser version. Currently, you can only use YouTube Live, Zoom’s Chrome Version, and WebEx with GoPro Webcam Utility.
Using Older Versions of GoPro as a Webcam
The method to use GoPro Hero 4, 5, 6, and 7 as a webcam is a bit different. You can only connect them to your computer using a Micro-HDMI output. Therefore, you need an HDMI to USB converter and a Micro-HDMI to HDMI cable. Only use the cable that can easily stream a minimum of 1080P at 60fps. Similarly, you must use an independent power source to switch on your GoPro.
- Turn on your GoPro
- Go to Preferences and then Input/Output
- Now, select HDMI Output
- Set HDMI Output to Live
Now, you have to connect your GoPro to the converter. Subsequently, connect the convert to your computer. It should instantly start working. However, you can make some tweaks and adjust settings using the included software.
Now, search for GoPro in the camera options of your webcam software. Sometimes, you may see the converter instead. You can select it to connect your GoPro.
With this, you also know how to use GoPro as webcam using HDMI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A GoPro camera good for a webcam?
Unfortunately, you can only use newer models such as GoPro Hero 8, 9, 10, etc. as a webcam using GoPro Webcam Utility. For older models, you may have to use capture cards or HDMI cables.
How do I use my GoPro as a webcam for teams?
GoPro’s desktop utility is currently not compatible with Microsoft Teams. However, you can use a capture card to convert your GoPro to a webcam in the Teams as well.
- Open Teams and Click your profile picture
- Open Settings and then Devices.
- Select the speaker and microphone of your choice under Audio Devices
- Select the capture card under the Camera
- Now, you will see the GoPro video’s preview
Can You Livestream with GoPro?
Yes, you can livestream with GoPro. However, it requires a GoPro subscription and the GoPro app. Similarly, you can only share the link to the video privately with your audience. GoPro allows you to livestream directly to YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. However, you can livestream on other platforms via RTMP URL.
Final Thoughts
With this, we conclude our guide on how to use GoPro as webcam. We hope you understand the procedure and can easily convert your GoPro to a webcam from now on.