Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Multiple Cameras in OBS Studio

1. Gather Your Equipment

Before diving into OBS Studio, make sure you have everything you need for a multi-camera setup:

• Cameras: Two or more USB webcams, DSLRs, mirrorless, or HDMI-output cameras.
• Computer: A machine with a capable CPU, GPU, and enough USB ports (or hubs).
• Capture Cards: Required for HDMI cameras. Use trusted brands like Elgato or AVerMedia.
• Tripods/Mounts: For camera stability and adjustable angles.
• Cables: USB/HDMI cables depending on the camera type.

2. Install and Configure OBS Studio

Download OBS Studio from obsproject.com and install it. Once installed:

1. Open OBS Studio: Ensure you have the latest version.
2. Create Multiple Scenes: Use the button under the "Scenes" panel for each camera angle you want (e.g., Close-up, Overhead, Wide).
3. Add Camera Sources: In each scene, click the in the "Sources" panel > choose "Video Capture Device" > select your camera.
4. Name and Configure: Name each source clearly, adjust resolution (preferably 1080p), set FPS to 30 or 60 based on your needs.
5. Repeat for All Cameras: Assign each camera to a different scene or group them in a single scene using layouts.

3. Seamlessly Switch Between Cameras

1. Use Studio Mode: Click "Studio Mode" to preview scenes before making them live. This enables smooth transitions.
2. Set Hotkeys: Go to Settings > Hotkeys and assign keys to switch scenes with one tap (e.g., F1 for Cam1, F2 for Cam2).
3. Configure Scene Transitions: Use fade, swipe, or cut. Customize duration to match your broadcast style.
4. Use Stream Deck (Optional): Elgato Stream Deck lets you switch scenes with physical buttons for a professional workflow.

4. Advanced Production Tips

• Audio Sync: Avoid echo by disabling audio for secondary cameras or sync with audio delay settings.
• Picture-in-Picture (PiP): Combine multiple cameras in one scene by layering and resizing video sources.
• Filters & LUTs: Add color correction and effects per camera using right-click > Filters.
• Overlays & Lower Thirds: Use transparent PNGs or animated assets to brand your stream or video.
• Multi-Track Recording: Use OBS plugins or advanced recording settings to separate video/audio tracks for editing.

5. Final Testing & Best Practices

• Test Before You Go Live: Run test recordings or streams to check video/audio sync, quality, and transitions.
• Monitor CPU Usage: OBS shows CPU usage at the bottom. Avoid overload by optimizing resolution and bitrate.
• Use Profiles and Scene Collections: Save unique settings for different camera setups or show formats.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check for OBS and plugin updates for better stability and features.