Webcam Solution – Canon EOS Webcam Utility

Webcams can be hard to come by these days, whether out of stock or due to price gouging on the web.

Canon has developed a beta version of an EOS application (utility) that allows the use of certain Canon cameras as a webcam. The software is designed and supported for Windows 10 (x64), however we tested and it also works with Windows 7 (x64). So no sweat if you’re running the older version of Windows (7), it will work for you as well.

Key Information

The first step is downloading the driver from Canon. You will have to select your camera model to navigate to the download, however the utility is the same for all supported models. We’ve put the file online, you can download directly here from DropBox.

When it comes to supported cameras, they are all confirmed to work by Canon. We tested a few older model DSLRs and they all worked as well. So if you have an older, 5dii, 7Dii or 1Dx, these will still work. If you have something different, it’s worth a try to see if it works.

One thing that is definitely needed is the correct USB cable to connect your camera to your PC. We had a handful that would not work, but also had a handful that would, as well as the factory Canon cord. The USB cables for Canon digital compacts must be either IFC-400PCU or IFC-600PCU cables for Mini-B and Micro-B terminals in order for your computer to communicate with your camera.

Audio will be handled by either your computer’s built-in microphone or the camera’s internal microphone. I would assume if you don’t have an integrated webcam, you won’t have an integrated microphone. Set your audio levels to auto as well. Or if you want, get fancy and dial them in using manual mode.

Before you connect, you need to change a few settings. Go into your camera’s menu and disable WiFi / NFC. Also be sure to disable Auto Power Off, so your camera stays on during use. Set your exposure and focus before connecting as well – on most models we used, camera exposure functions were locked once connected. Feel free to use auto mode here for both exposure and focus, they will work fine.

Once ready to connect, turn video mode ON with live-view, then connect your camera via USB to your laptop or workstation. A dialogue window will popup stating “Setting up Canon Webcam”. Then in the settings of your video conference software, select camera dropdown menu and select EOS Webcam Utility Beta as your webcam and audio.

And of course, don’t forget about lighting, camera position and looking your best on a webcam. Here are a few tips from my friend Russ Campbell, a photographer out of Maynard Mass. You can download the PDF version of it here on DropBox.

Below is the info from Canon

Info From Canon

Here’s the copy from Canon: With so many of us relying on video calls to stay connected during these challenging times, the quality of that connection is key. Turn your compatible Canon camera into a high quality webcam now!

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