Are you tired of relying on your webcam’s poor quality for video calls? Or do you want to upgrade your live streaming setup to look more professional? If you have a Fujifilm X series camera, you can use it as a webcam for high-quality video.
From using your camera for work video calls, live streaming on YouTube or Twitch, or just recording a video for fun, it’s time to upgrade your video. Here’s our ultimate guide for setting up your Fujifilm camera to live-stream video. We cover everything in depth because there are two options to connect your Fujifilm camera to your laptop or desktop.
The first method is straightforward and can be completed easily with Fujifilm X models compatible with the X Webcam software, by connecting your camera via USB-C for a simple webcam setup.
The second option is to connect your camera via HDMI output, which will give you more control of your camera settings and mirror your live view.
If you have a Fujifilm X Camera that is not compatible with the X Webcam software or prefer to use HDMI output, skip ahead to our instructions for HDMI connections.
Webcam Setup for X Series Cameras Compatible with the Fujifilm X Webcam Software
Table of Contents
In order to use your Fujifilm camera as a webcam, you will first need to download the Fujifilm X Webcam software from the Fujifilm website. Follow the download instructions to install the software on your PC or MAC.
The following cameras are compatible with the Webcam App:
- GFX100S/GFX100/GFX50S/GFX50R
- X-T4/X-T3/X-T2
- X-H1
- X-Pro3/X-Pro2
- X-S10
- X-T30
- X-E4
- X100V
Once you’ve installed and set up the X Webcam software, your device will be ready to recognize your Fujifilm camera as a webcam.
Fujifilm has started incorporating built-in webcam capabilities into X series cameras released since 2022. The following cameras can be connected via USB-C to your computer, without the need for the X Webcam software:
- X-T5
- X-H2
- X-H2S
- X-S20
Just select “USB Webcam” from the “Select Connection Setting” menu and you’re good to connect your camera as a webcam.
Fujifilm Camera Settings for USB Webcam
To use your Fujifilm X Series camera and ensure your computer will register the USB connection follow these steps:
- From the camera menu, go to “Set Up” (wrench icon) > “Connection Setting”
- Select “Connection Mode”
- Set the Connection Mode to “USB Tether Shooting Auto”
Tethered shooting is another way to say remote-control shooting. In “USB Tether Shooting Auto” mode, movie-recording features can be controlled by the device connected via USB. The camera will automatically enter tethered shooting when you connect to the external device, and return to normal camera operation when the external connection is turned off or disconnected.
When in USB tether mode, you will not be able to modify ISO, shutter speed, or aperture settings. Your camera will keep the settings you had when entering tethering, so make sure to double-check your settings and composition to make any adjustments beforehand. There are limited settings that can be modified using the Webcam X software.
How to Connect Your Camera to Your Device via USB-C
To attach your camera to your computer, use a USB-C to USB-A cable, with the USB-C end connected to the USB-C port on your Fujifilm, and the USB-A end to your device’s USB port. Make sure you’re using a USB cable that is able to transfer data and is not only for charging.
Your camera will now be available as a video source named “Fujifilm X Webcam 2” on your platform or application.
Note that the USB webcam connection will not work if your camera drive mode is in Movie mode.
Using the Fujifilm Webcam App
When your camera is connected to your device via USB webcam, the Fujifilm Webcam X software can be used to change the following settings:
- Instant AF
- AE Lock
- Digital Zoom
- Exposure compensation
- Film simulation
- White Balance
- Color temperature
There is also a checkbox to “Launch when camera connected” so that the Webcam App window opens when you connect your camera to your device.
How to Connect Fujifilm X Camera to Your Computer Via HDMI Output
Unfortunately, the lower-end Fujifilm X models that are not compatible with the X Webcam software do not support USB tethering to a computer. However, that doesn’t mean your camera is useless for streaming! You can actually connect your Fujifilm camera as a webcam using the HDMI output.
I tested this method with my Fujifilm X-T20 and it worked to perfection – I think I even prefer the HDMI output over USB-C connection because I have more control of my camera settings while connected. Here’s the steps I took to connect my camera to my computer via HDMI.
Items You Need to Connect Your Camera
Connecting your camera via HDMI requires a few more items, so you might need to purchase some if you don’t have them on hand. You will need:
Steps to Connect Your Camera to Your Device
- Insert the Micro HDMI in the Fujifilm camera micro HDMI port
- Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the micro HDMI adapter
- Connect the other end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI input on your device
- Once connected, turn on your camera and you should now be able to select it as a video source named “USB Video” on your device.
Movie mode on the drive dial will be the most effective for a webcam or live streaming. Unlike the USB-C connection, you can control video settings including the quality of the video output. While single frame mode and the other modes will work when connected as a webcam, these modes are not ideal for video. The Fujifilm display indicators also continue to show on the video connection when you are not in movie mode.
In Movie mode, you can adjust your settings while shooting. I was able to select film simulations and adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO all while connected via HDMI.
Camera Battery Life When in Webcam Mode
Another factor to keep in mind when live streaming is to be aware of your camera battery. Since you’re using video, your battery may run out faster. One solution is to get a camera power supply dummy battery for a constant power source, especially if you’ve connected your camera via USB-C.
Or if you’re using an HDMI connection, you can keep your battery charged using a USB-C charging cable, though this may limit the range of your camera depending on the length of your charging cable.
Camera Settings to Review for Video Streaming
Before connecting your camera, remember to review your camera settings which will affect the display and video recording.The settings can be adjusted while connected, but it can be tricky to make changes in the middle of a video call or live stream. Here are some of the movie settings (“Menu” > “Movie Setting”) you need to review that will affect your video output:
- Movie settings
Select the quality of the video that will be recorded or streamed. Select from 4k, Full HD, and HD options for frame size and rate for recording and output.
- HDMI output info display
This setting controls what camera settings are displayed on the HDMI output.
If On, your HDMI device will mirror the indicators on the camera display.
If Off, you will only get the video display without any overlays. A reminder that this setting only applies when the Drive dial is set to Movie.
- 4k movie output
This setting determines how 4k video is recorded. You can set what video quality (4K or FHD) will be recorded to your SD card, and what quality will be output to your HDMI device.
- HDMI rec control
When this setting is On, your camera shutter can be used to stop or start video recording on your HDMI device.
Review Your Power Settings
Don’t forget to check your camera’s power settings to prevent the camera from going to sleep from inactivity. You can turn off Auto Power Off in the camera settings menu: “Set Up” > “Power Management” > “Auto Power Off”
Does the Camera Webcam Capture Sound?
Yes, both the USB and HDMI connections will capture sound from your camera. Remember to select the sound source on your platform to the camera, instead of your computer’s built-in mic or your headphones.
Another option for improved sound quality is to purchase a camera mic attachment.
Can I use the Camera Remote App or Fujifilm X App With My Camera as a Webcam?
While connected via USB-C or HDMI you will not be able to control the camera from the Camera Remote App or Fujifilm X App.
How to Select Your Fujifilm HDMI Output or Webcam Connection as Your Camera Source
Once you’ve successfully set up and connected your camera’s HDMI output, you still need to select it as the camera or video source to use on your video or streaming platform.
If you are connected via USB-C webcam connection, your camera will likely be named “Fujifilm X Webcam 2”
If you are connected via HDMI Output, your Fujifilm camera will be named “USB Camera”.
Here are steps to select it on some of the most popular video call and streaming platforms:
- OBS Studio
When you need your camera for high-quality video, and you’re using OBS Studio to stream on YouTube, Twitch, or any other platform, follow these simple steps to select your Fujifilm HDMI output.
- Click the “+” button to add a Source
- Choose “Video Capture Device”
- Select “Create new” and rename the video capture device if you’d like. Then click “OK”
- Choose the Device from the dropdown menu and click “OK”.
- Microsoft Teams
When you need professional video quality for work, school, or just want to look good on family calls. Here’s how to select your Fujifilm camera on Microsoft Teams for video calls:
- When you open the Teams call, select the Settings icon and go to “Video Settings”.
- Under “Camera” select your video source.
- Zoom
If you’ve wanted to level up your Zoom video call presentation, for work, school, or calling your friends, here’s how to select your Fujifilm camera output for Zoom:
- Select the arrow next to “Start/Stop Video”. Then “Select a Camera” from the options.
- Facebook Live and Messenger
On Facebook Live and Messenger, go to “Select a video source”. For “Webcam”, under “Camera controls” select the connected camera.
Conclusion
Now you should be all set to start using your Fujifilm camera as a webcam. Depending on your Fujifilm camera model, there are two ways to connect your camera to your computer. The quick and easy method is using a USB-C connection directly from your camera to your computer.The second option is setting up an HDMI connection to output your video to your computer.Both options will let you take advantage of your Fujifilm camera to get high-quality video for your next online meeting or live stream.
If you have any more questions about setting up your webcam, send us a message or feedback at info@whatthefuji.com
