Digital cameras can be repurposed as high-quality webcams

Shipments of built-in-lens digital cameras grew by 29.6 percent in 2025, reaching approximately 2.44 million units, with a projected increase of 13.6 percent in 2026, according to the Camera & Imaging Products Association.

Beyond a trend in retro digital cameras, older DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and some compact models can be repurposed as webcams to improve low-light performance, framing control, and natural background blur. Compatibility often depends on manufacturer-specific software and USB connectivity. Supported models include the Canon EOS 6D and Rebel T6, Nikon D5300 and D750, and Sony A5100, A7 II, and RX100 IV.