Top 9 Webcam Recording Software + 3 Pro Tips

In today’s world, everyone has the potential to be a creator and the best way to present yourself to the world is through the use of webcam recording. Webcam recording gives you the ability to truly connect with your audience “face to face”. Whether you’re creating Youtube tutorials/how-to videos, training videos, awesome gaming videos, or you simply want to record a video conversation/meeting, you’ll need the help of a web camera recording program.

With the right webcam recording software, you will be able to create high-quality, professional-looking videos right from your computer. But figuring out the best tool and method for top-notch videos can be a bit confusing. That’s why we put together this list of the best webcam video recording software and a few pro tips to make your videos stand out from the crowd.

Getting Started: Gather Your Equipment

Before you can jump into recording your videos and sharing them, you need to set up your arsenal. The following tools are must-haves for outstanding recording.

Webcam

This may seem like a “Duh” moment, but hey, essentials are essentials and you clearly need a webcam if you’re going to create content worth viewing. This means your webcam has to have a high resolution and possibly a reliable microphone. Use the following checklist to help you choose the best video device for any type of webcam video capture:

• Has a resolution of 720p or higher, preferably 1080p
• 15 frames per second (fps) or higher
• Has a glass lens instead of plastic
• Has a built-in microphone
• Equipped with auto-focus

Webcam Recording Software

In order to get successful webcam picture captures you’ll need to use a webcam recorder. There are many different types of applications available each with its own unique features. Check out the table below for the best 9 paid and free webcam recording software.

For more information about the top 3 webcam capture apps on our list, check the video below.

Light Source

When recording any type of video or even if you’re just taking pictures, lighting is everything. The quality of your footage often depends on the quality of your lighting. Lighting can be tricky however because you need to be bright enough so that you don’t look shadowed, but you don’t want to be too illuminated that all colors are washed out.

This can be achieved by using natural light from the early morning sun, or lamps (or softbox lights) that mimic a natural glow. Take a moment to read this complete guide on the best way to achieve the perfect lighting for your videos.

***BONUS*** Screen Recording Software

For many videos like tutorials and gameplay, it isn’t enough just to record your webcam, you also need to be able to record your computer screen and audio simultaneously. This may seem like a huge feat, and technically speaking, it is. However, there are a few apps out there that make light work of it. We’d recommend ScreenRec partly because we created it but also for a number of other reasons.

ScreenRec is a screen and webcam video recorder that allows you to easily record both your desktop and camera in HD along with computer AND microphone audio. This lightweight app is among the most powerful no lag screen recorders that help you to create seamless videos of any length. It’s completely free and doesn’t add annoying watermarks. Your video will have a professional finish without needing to customize picture quality after the fact.

All of your recordings are saved to your private cloud with 2GB of storage as well as locally on your hard drive. At the end of your recording, a private sharing link is automatically copied to your clipboard so you can share it with anyone or post anywhere.

This is the easiest way to create your videos without needing to download multiple video capture software.

Before You Record: Tips For Video Recording Yourself

Set up your lights for perfect illumination

As we mentioned, lighting is incredibly important. Choosing your light source is one thing. Setting it all up is a whole other ball game. Luckily, it isn’t difficult. The best way to light the stage is to use the “3-point lighting system.” This setup features three different light sources all set up at different angles. This quick tutorial shows you how it’s done.

Find the right framing

The position of your body in relation to the camera is everything! Depending on the type of video you are creating (simple how-to, makeup tutorial, gaming video, professional work video, etc.) you’ll need to decide how close your face/body will be to the camera.

For example, if you’re creating a training video, you probably don’t want just your face in the frame. A simple headshot frame (top of head to just below shoulders) would be more appropriate. However, if you’re creating a makeup tutorial, it’s probably best to have your face closer to the camera with most or none of your body in the frame.

Do a quick search of videos similar to yours and see which framing technique is most appropriate.

Test audio

Have you ever experienced a jump-scare moment when you go to play a video and the moment it starts, the audio blares from your speakers? Yeah, it’s awful, but this usually occurs when the creator did not test their audio before recording.

Having a video in which the audio is too loud or too quiet can make it almost impossible to watch. So do yourself and your audience a favor and test your mic. You can do this by recording a quick test video and viewing the playback.

During Recording and After

Now that you have all the equipment you need, the webcam recording software and the tips for making your videos awesome, you’re all set to start your project. Remember to keep it natural and light-hearted. If you’ve prepared a script, deliver it with ease. Take your time and don’t be afraid to do multiple takes if necessary. For less formal videos (non-work related), feel free to leave in any bloopers or mess-ups, they can make your video more light-hearted and relatable.

Conclusion

Once you’re finished, share it with the world! Some apps can make this difficult as you’ll have to upload your videos manually which can take forever. Other web camera recording programs, like ScreenRec, make sharing instant and easy. Whichever method you choose, give yourself a pat on the back and be proud of your content.

References and Further Reading

• The Best Webcams On The Market
• Best Screen Recorders For All Laptops
• Video Framing Techniques For Beginners
• The Best Video Capture Software