Connecting a Pro Camera (DSLR)

For a flawless feed with pro-cams, you will need:

  • Pro Cam/DSLR

  • A camlink / encoder

  • Appropriate cables for your devices

  • A Tripod


Connecting a Pro Camera with an Encoder

An encoder is a piece of hardware you can purchase or rent. You will need to plug your camera into the encoder, and encoder into the computer. The encoder helps convert your camera's format to be compatible with your computer.

Our recommendations for a pro-cam encoder include:

  • Elgato Camlink: This is the easiest and the most compact out of all the encoders. You can use a USB adaptor to plug it directly into your computer. Plus, it’s hassle free! You can verify your camera compatibility here.

  • Black Magic Web Presenter: This is highly recommended but harder to come by. Check your areas to see which stores carry this but currently in 2021, it’s not as widely available for a week turn around.

  • Black Magic ATEM: This is very easy to learn and has a flawless integration with your computer. Please check your area to see if you can rent and/or purchase.


  1. Plug in your camera to the continuous battery. Make sure to align the cords so that you are able to shut your battery door.

  2. Turn on your camera. Note that your camera will automatically turn off if you do not put it in continuous video mode.

  3. Plug in the encoder to your computer.

How you connect for each encoder may look different, so please refer to each individual “how to's” on the website to set up your pro cam successfully.

Tip: If your camera keeps turning off, check:

Is Auto power on? To activate auto power off set auto power off under the settings and turn it to disable.

  • If the Auto power is off, check your settings for the viewfinder.

Is eco-mode on? Turn that off.


Camera Recommendations

  • Recommended camera: Canon R or R6 DSLR.

  • A continuous battery that fits your camera. Note: there are different continuous battery for different cameras, so if you are using Sony, it will not work on a Canon).

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