Your webcam video quality is one of the most important aspects of a high-quality presentation. This article covers our tips for getting the most out of your camera setup.
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Camera types
If your computer has a built-in webcam, that's great! You’re ready to use mmhmm.
While mmhmm will work with your computer's built-in webcam, we recommend using an external HD webcam. External HD webcams will have higher image quality and have the added benefit of greater control of your recording angle.
Here are some external webcams we recommend using with mmhmm:
It may be possible to use your DSLR camera as an external webcam. DSLRs have higher quality image sensors and allow for a greater variety of lenses, which can produce a richer image and be more suitable for some types of broadcasts.
- Click here to learn how to do this with Canon DSLRs.
- Click here for Nikon DSLRs.
- Click here for Fujifilm DSLRs.
Note: If you are having trouble with the Canon EOS software, try the following workaround (only applicable to Macs with the M1 chip).
- First, ensure mmhmm is closed.
- Open Finder and go to Applications.
- Right-click on the mmhmm icon.
- Select Get Info.
- Check the box labeled Open using Rosetta.
DSLR's whose manufacturers don't provide their own webcam software will need a capture card such as the Elgato Camlink 4K to process the camera's video feed.
- Click here to learn how to use the Elgato Camlink 4K with your DSLR and to confirm its compatibility.
A lot of smartphones, like the iPhone and Google Pixel, have award-winning cameras and powerful processors that produce high-quality video. You can now leverage your smartphone by using it as a webcam with mmhmm. There are many 3rd party apps that allow you to connect your smartphone to your computer. Here are some we recommend:
You can also use Apple's Continuity Camera feature to use your iPhone as a native webcam with your Mac. Click here to learn more.
Green screen types and settings
You can use two types of green screens with mmhmm: virtual or physical.
The virtual green screen is included with mmhmm and requires no special setup. It automatically detects the position of your head and body in the foreground and separates it from your background, allowing you to take advantage of mmhmm's rooms, or backgrounds.
Physical green screens are usually made of green fabric and hung from a stand or frame in your physical environment. Frequently used in Hollywood and online streaming, the bright green of these backdrops makes it easier to digitally superimpose the subject in a virtual scene. While these require a bit more effort to acquire and set up, they are currently the best way to make the subject "pop" in a virtual room.
You can change select your greenscreen type in your camera settings. To learn how use a green screen with mmhmm, read Green screen best practices.
If you are looking for a green screen, consider the Elgato Green Screen Collapsible Chroma Key Panel.
Don’t see the answer to your question? If you’re having technical difficulties or want to suggest a topic for this guide, click here to submit a support ticket or email us at help@mmhmm.app.
