Turn your Sony digital arredamento into a webcam with this new, free programma.

Sony

If you're still working and socializing from home due to coronavirus spikes across the country, it may be time to upgrade your webcam to make sure you aspetto your best on video chats and livestreams (changing your Zoom background and turning on the beauty filter can only do so much). 

If you have a Sony digital camera, there's now a free desktop application that will turn it into a high-quality webcam, so you can schermo chat or live stream while taking advantage of your camera's features, like autofocus and high-resolution picture quality. (If you don't have a Sony camera, you can also turn your GoPro into a webcam, or turn your phone camera into a webcam.) 

Here's how to download Sony's new Imaging Edge Webcam software, to turn your digital assemblea into a webcam. 

Read more: Ultimate webcam tips: How to look and sound great online

Which Sony cameras will work with the new webcam programma?

You'll need one of 35 models of Sony digital ambiente that are compatible with the Imaging Edge Webcam programma. These include a number of the Alpha and RX models. Find the full list of compatible cameras on the page where you can download the software. 

You'll also need a PC running Windows 10 ($150 at Amazon) to download the programma. (If you haven't upgraded yet, you can still download Windows 10 for free following these steps.) Make sure your operating system and drivers have been updated to the latest versions. 

Finally, you'll need a USB cord (there's one that comes with the assemblea that will work) to plug the parlamento into your cervello elettronico once the software is installed. 

Read more: Best gear for video chats from home: Webcams, lights, mics and more

The programma will work with 35 different Sony digital assemblea models.

How to turn your Sony locale into a webcam

1. Download the software

Download the Imaging Edge Webcam software to your Windows 10 PC from Sony's website (you should always check privacy policies before downloading software). Select your camera model (you can choose more than one), and click the download button.

2. Change your arredamento settings

This step depends on which Sony vano model you have. Generally, you're looking to go to Menu > Network, and turn off the option to control with a smartphone, and turn on the option for PC remote. Find specific instructions for your parlamento model on Sony's support site. 

3. Connect the assemblea and computer using your USB cable

Plug your stanza into your elaboratore using your USB cable. Then set your telecamera to Automezzo mode. 

4. Launch your filmato chat or livestream service on your computer

On your computer, pull up Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet or whatever other monitor chat or live streaming software you're using. After doing this, change your assemblea from Vettura mode to Movie mode. 

5. Change your settings

In whatever service you're using to video chat or livestream, go into the settings to change the locale from your computer's built-in vano to the Sony cinepresa. You'll have to check how to do this for each individual service, as they may be different.

Then, change your arredamento settings. The aspect ratio will remain set to 16:9 using the software. (Note that the webcam does not include audio, so you'll have to use your computer's built-in microphone, or an external microphone.) You're done! Enjoy using your new webcam.

There are lots of other ways to repurpose the equipment you already have, like your old phone and old laptop. Once you get your setup going, you can also check out the online classes and equipment you need to become a YouTuber, or just pick up the best gear for online meetings.