Video Recording – Webcam Video On A Computer

Most computers have a built-in webcam that can be used to record a variety of video types. Think about positioning your computer screen so the webcam can record more than just a talking head. For example, it can be used to record a demonstration of how to use a piece of equipment; or record an interview. Sometimes an application will come installed for recording with your webcam, but there are also many other options available depending on your platform. Here are some examples:

Camera App (Windows 10, Windows 8.1)

Most computers that have a built-in webcam, come with an app to capture photos and video. Windows 10 and 8.1 have an app called Camera. The Camera app can be found in the Windows Start menu. Learn how to use it: How to use the Camera app

Video Recorder (Windows, Mac)

Video Recorder is a free online tool that allows you to record video from your webcam and then save an MP4 file to your computer, Google Drive or Dropbox. As the site states “All you need is a web camera and a good internet connection”. This tool could be handy if you need a very quick and easy way to capture a short video with your Webcam. No registration required.

Screencast-O-Matic (Windows, Mac)

Screencast-O-Matic captures webcam video and/or a screen recording. Videos can be saved to the computer as an MP4, or uploaded directly to YouTube. The free version is fully functional, with only a small discrete watermark in the bottom corner. The limitations of the free version are that the recordings can not be longer than 15 minutes and there are no editing tools. Upgrade to the Pro version for $18/year. Registration required.

Video Note in DC Connect (Windows, Mac)

The Video Note feature allows faculty to create video recordings (maximum 30 minutes) from a webcam right in DC Connect to content, discussion posts and as assignment feedback. Students can also use Video Notes in discussion posts. Automatic captions included! Learn how to use it: Video Note in DC Connect

iMovie (Mac)

iMovie is not only great for basic video editing, but it will also allow you to import video directly from your webcam. Apple provides instructions on how to do this using the latest version of iMovie.

Quicktime (Mac)

The standard free version of Quicktime on a Mac is another option for recording webcam video. Visit How to use QuickTime Player to learn more.

Camtasia (Windows, Mac)

Camtasia is a screen recorder and video editor all-in-one. It also has the ability to capture webcam video. If you are creating a lot of videos and looking for an all-in-one capture and editing solution, Camtasia might be worth considering. Educational cost is approximately $230.

If you believe that Camtasia can meet your teaching and training needs, full time faculty may be eligible to request a license for the full version. Please consult the One Off Software Requests for Full Time Faculty Use document for information on how to obtain a license.

If you don't have a computer or laptop with a webcam available or would rather use a Smartphone, Tablet or iPad to record video, please visit our Recording Device – Smartphones, Tablets & iPads page.

If you have completed your video recordings and are ready to move onto editing, check out the information on our Video Editing page. If you are ready to share your video, visit our page on Video Sharing.