Use an outside camera or microphone

Use a better camera instead of the laptop camera.

Steps

1. Plug the camera into the laptop with USB.
   • A camera with only an HDMI port (a DSLR, mirrorless, or camcorder) needs a capture card first. Examples: Elgato Cam Link or a cheap HDMI-to-USB card.
   • Turn the camera on. Some need "webcam mode" or "USB streaming" turned on in their menu.
2. Plug it in before you open the room. If the room is open, reload the page.
3. Allow camera access if asked.
4. In the room, open Settings.
5. Choose your camera in the Camera dropdown. Your tile changes at once.
6. Do the same for the Microphone dropdown if you use an outside microphone.

If your camera is not in the list

• Close other apps that use the camera (Zoom, OBS, Photo Booth). Only one app can use it.
• Unplug the camera, plug it in again, and reload the page.
• Try a different USB port. Use a direct port, not a hub.
• On a Mac: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera. Turn your browser on.
• On Windows: Settings → Privacy → Camera. Allow desktop apps and your browser.

Good to know

• You can switch cameras at any time, even while you record.
• You cannot show two cameras for one person. To show a second camera, use Add in-person guest, give it a name like "Camera 2", and pick the second camera. Use a different microphone, or none.