Webcams are more important now than ever. The usage of the meeting app, Zoom, went up by 316% in 2020 as a result of working and schooling (and hanging out) from home.
If your computer doesn’t have a built-in webcam or you want an update, don’t sweat it. There are plenty of great webcam options available for purchase online and in stores.
Once you have your webcam, it’s time to navigate webcam setup. That’s where we come in!
Read on for our complete guide to webcam setup so you can access all of the latest webcam technology.
Table of Contents
Install the Webcam
Most modern webcams are extremely user-friendly and easy to use. The most important step of the process is installing the programming to make it work on your computer.
Attach the webcam to your computer. Most webcams use a USB attachment to connect with other devices. (If you’re on a new Mac, you will need to get a USB port adapter.)
Once the webcam is attached, insert the webcam’s CD. If it didn’t come with a CD, plugging it in should bring up the setup page automatically.
Follow the setup process on the screen. You may need to agree to the terms of use for your webcam or acknowledge that you’ve read any disclaimers.
When you are given the option, click the “Install” button and allow the installation process to complete. This should take a few minutes.
If the webcam application doesn’t open upon completion, minimize the installation window and look for the webcam’s icon. Click on the icon to open the program that comes with your webcam. You may need to set up a few things, like your webcam profile.
Give It a Test Run
How do you know if your webcam is working? Chances are, you don’t want to wait for your next meeting or online hangout to figure it out. If it doesn’t work, you’re going to miss out while trying to troubleshoot the problem.
Instead, give this Webcam Test a try. This will allow you to test your video and audio without having to open another program like Zoom or Skype.
Consider Lighting
What’s the last step to consider if you want the best webcam setup possible? Figure out a lighting solution.
This is especially important if you’re using a webcam to make videos for YouTube or other websites. A video with dim lighting looks poor in quality, no matter how strong the visual and audio quality actually is. Make sure that you are front-lit by using either a well-placed desk lamp or a ring light.
Enjoy Your Webcam Setup
Nowadays, we’re relying on webcams for a whole lot of stuff. We hope that our guide to the best webcam setup (and our bonus webcam lighting setup tip) have been helpful.
Looking for more ways to maximize your use of technology? Wondering what else is new in the business and education world? Take a look around for relevant news, tips, and product guides.