Using a dslr as a webcam

[Marmaran_1]

Hello!

Is it possible to use a DSLR as a webcam using some (free) software ? That would be great because I could read the image with openCV then. (and of course because of the much better picture quality and control than my webcam can offer)

[vorticalbox]

DSLR senors only tend to let you record for between 10 min and 30 mins (from what i can see on google). my d3100 only record for 10 mins. This is because the sensor gets hot while recording so you're limited.

 

You should just by a 1080 Webcam.

[manikyath]

the issue with using a DSLR as a webcam is that the sensor inside is NOT made for long-term operation, and some DSLR's will actually shut down to protect themselves after 30-odd minutes of sensor operation.

 

depending on what you need the image for, i'd suggest just getting a high quality webcam (they exist) or a capture card and a quality video camera.

[SeanAngelo]

16 minutes ago, Marmaran_1 said:

Hello!

Is it possible to use a DSLR as a webcam using some (free) software ? That would be great because I could read the image with openCV then. (and of course because of the much better picture quality and control than my webcam can offer)

 

5 minutes ago, vorticalbox said:

DSLR senors only tend to let you record for between 10 min and 30 mins (from what i can see on google). my d3100 only record for 10 mins. This is because the senor gets hot while recording so you're limited.

 

You should just by a 1080 Webcam.

this is the issue ^

 

i can vouch for the 1080 webcam too. just buy one.

[Marmaran_1]

The camera is only used for 3 minutes snippets maximum and could then be turned off and has like 5 minutes or more to cool down. The problem is that it is mounted like 3 meters over the ground and I can't reach it for turning off without a ladder (a ladder is not an option).