Choosing a webcam

Choosing a good webcam is key in having a great show and grabbing your audience's attention. The clearer and better-quality that your sound and image are, the better your show.

The best company for webcams out there is Logitech. It will reuqire you to install Logitech drivers so that you have greater control over how your webcam appears. If you're running OS X, it's possible that you'll need to use a 3rd party app to edit your settings. You can also use a program like ManyCam to add more features to your video.

The most common webcams

The most widely used camera out there is the Logitech c920. Its price can range from aroun $50-$150. This camera records and streams video at 1080p. It comes with dual stereo microphones and it is compatible with a tripod. You could also find a cheaper, older version of it-c910.

The Logitech c930e is also a very popular camera among cam girls. It has a very wide angle and will cost you from $100-$150. This camera also functions in 1080p, has dual stereo microphones, and is compatible with a tripod.

Older models and other options

The Logitech 9000 has officially been discontinued, but you can still find refurbished versions of its in various places online. It's priced at around $50-$150. This cam records in 720p, includes a single microphone, and is not compatible with tripods. It's unique in that it seems to record images in warmer tones than other cameras, which some girls prefer even though it isn't HD quality.

The Logitech c615 streams in 720p, records in 1080 p, and is compatible with tripods. Its prices range from $40-$80.

The Logitech c510/525 streams and records in 720p and is not compatible with tripods. Its prices range from $35-$60.

Cameras NOT recommended for use

The Microsoft Lifecam is considered a low-quality camera. You can't turn off its autoadjust, and its picture is often blurred or choppy as a result.

Built-in laptop cameras are typically not the best quality. The fact that many do not come with an external microphone can result in some pretty bad audio for your audience. The quality of their image is likewise questionable.

Remember these few pointers when looking for a camera:

• Get to know the camera's settings and software. Using it on default is typically not the best idea.
• It's usually better to turn the auto-focus off. It can be frustrating for viewers to see you moving around

or dancing on camera and having the camera constantly auto-focus and making blurry images.

• Make sure that you adjust the exposure and grain settings. The exposure should reflect the lighting in your room and you shouldn't just have them on auto.
• Adjusting your color hues is also important. Make sure that your white balance setting is right. Strive for the most natural color settings that you can.
• Using a tripod is often really helpful when doing a show. You can also opt for a shelf, laptop, or whatever else that can offer a stable picture for your audience.