Don’t want to spend extra money on a dedicated webcam, or just want to make the most of your Sony a6000 series camera? In this very brief and concise guide, we’ll go over how to use a Sony a6000 for streaming.
If you’ve read any other guides on this subject, most talk about how you can use the “imaging edge” program from Sony, but unfortunately that does not support the now quite old Sony a6000, thus we have to go with a slightly more complicated method. Let’s jump in.
First, we need an HDMI capture device.
In order for us to use the Sony a6000 as a webcam, we need to route it through something called a video capture device.
There are plenty of options from plenty of brands, but I, along with some streamer friends, have found the Elgato Cam Link to work best. It’s a small, thumb-drive sized USB device that plugs into your computer.
Second, we need a cable.
This part is rather simple. The Sony a6000 uses a micro-HDMI port whilst most computers (or in this case, the capture device), use a full-size HDMI port.
For my setup, a 6-foot micro-HDMI to HDMI cable works best, but there’s literally thousands of options here, so pick whatever fits your needs.
Third, we need a way to charge the camera.
It may seem obvious but, yes, the camera does need to have a source of consistent power while recording. I’d suggest a pretty standard power adapter such as this one on Amazon.
Simply plug it into an outlet, then slide the fake “battery” into the camera for “unlimited” power.
Lastly, we need to change some settings…
Now you simply plug your camera into the capture device and it should start showing up under webcam options on your PC.
Now, the last thing to do is to go into settings and turn off the “HDMI Info. Display” to ensure that the settings/histogram don’t show up on your stream. Simply go to the final section of the a6000 settings menu, then page three, and then scroll down and switch it to off.
Just like that, you are ready to start using your Sony a6000 for streaming.
To recap, here are the three items you’ll need.
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Capture Device
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Cable Adapter
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Dummy Battery
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Description: A reasonably affordable and strong option that can record up to 4k. Plug-and-play. |
Description: Any micro-HDMI to HDMI adapter will work. This is a cheap, generic option that works fine. |
Description: A dummy battery that provides continuous power to the camera. Don't be scared off by the fact that the product image makes it look so complicated. |
A reasonably affordable and strong option that can record up to 4k. Plug-and-play.
Any micro-HDMI to HDMI adapter will work. This is a cheap, generic option that works fine.
A dummy battery that provides continuous power to the camera. Don't be scared off by the fact that the product image makes it look so complicated.
Final Notes
It is important to note that you’ll need both good lighting and a decent lens in order to surpass the quality of a typical webcam. For streaming, I’d suggest something wider such as the Sigma 16mm F1.4 (my review here) or even just the cheap kit lens.
Additionally, you’ll need at least a small tripod for stability. You will also need to consider some sort of lighting solution if you lack good light otherwise. Finally, also considering investing in a quality microphone, whether that be on-camera or connected to your PC.
Suggested additions to boost your streaming game:
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A Wide Lens
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Desktop Tripod
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Cheap Lighting
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Dedicated Mic
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Description: A wide-angle lens is essential. If this is too expensive, however, the cheap Sony kit lens can work in a pinch. |
Description: You'll need a place to mount the camera. Any cheap desktop tripod can work. Don't worry about dropping a ton of money on something fancy. |
Description: A great camera setup doesn't matter if you have poor lighting. A ring light (or two!) provides a cheap way to get better lighting. |
Description: Finally, some might argue that audio quality matters much more than video quality. While any dedicated mic will do the trick, it's worth investing in something a little nicer. |
A wide-angle lens is essential. If this is too expensive, however, the cheap Sony kit lens can work in a pinch.
You'll need a place to mount the camera. Any cheap desktop tripod can work. Don't worry about dropping a ton of money on something fancy.
A great camera setup doesn't matter if you have poor lighting. A ring light (or two!) provides a cheap way to get better lighting.
Finally, some might argue that audio quality matters much more than video quality. While any dedicated mic will do the trick, it's worth investing in something a little nicer.
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