vMix Archives - PTZOptics https://ptzoptics.com/category/vmix/ Live Streaming Solutions Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:10:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://ptzoptics.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/favicon.png vMix Archives - PTZOptics https://ptzoptics.com/category/vmix/ 32 32 How to use vMix for Auto-Tracking with PTZOptics Cameras https://ptzoptics.com/how-to-use-vmix-for-auto-tracking-with-ptzoptics-cameras/ https://ptzoptics.com/how-to-use-vmix-for-auto-tracking-with-ptzoptics-cameras/#respond Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:59:46 +0000 https://ptzoptics.com/?p=36453 Explore the seamless integration of vMix scripting with PTZOptics cameras in this comprehensive guide. Discover how to create, implement, and test scripts to toggle the auto-tracking features of PTZOptics cameras using vMix, allowing for dynamic and focused video production. Whether a seasoned professional or a novice in video streaming, this walkthrough provides step-by-step instructions, insights, and tips to enhance your live production workflow and create engaging content by leveraging the advanced features of vMix and PTZOptics.

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vMix is a versatile live production software that allows you to create, record, and stream in HD, SD, and even 4K. One of its lesser-known features is scripting, which enables users to automate various functions and streamline their workflow. PTZOptics cameras, which are supported in vMix for pan, tilt, and zoom controls, now offer auto-tracking features in selected models, allowing the camera to follow the subject automatically. This guide aims to walk you through the process of using vMix scripting to enable or disable the auto-tracking capabilities on your PTZOptics cameras, making your production more efficient and dynamic.

Note: To access these advanced features, including scripting and PTZ controls, users must have vMix 4K, Pro, or vMix Max editions as these are not available in the lower-cost Basic HD and HD licenses.

Download the Guide: If you would like to download this guide as a PDF you can do so here.

Using Auto-Tracking Cameras with vMix

In this blog post, you will learn about the integration of vMix’s scripting capabilities with PTZOptics cameras, focusing specifically on enabling and disabling the auto-tracking functionalities. This synergy between vMix and PTZOptics can elevate your video production, allowing for more flexibility and creativity in your video productions. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a beginner eager to explore advanced video production techniques, this walkthrough will provide insights and step-by-step instructions to streamline your experience with vMix and PTZOptics.

Note: You can learn more about vMix scripting in this documentation page on their website.

Section 1: Preparing vMix for Scripting

1.1 Launching vMix:

Start by opening vMix software. You will also want to have your PTZOptics camera set up on the same network as your vMix computer. You will need to know the IP address of your PTZOptics camera. If you do not know the IP address of your camera follow the guide here.

vMix Scripting for setting up Auto-Tracking
vMix Scripting for setting up Auto-Tracking

1.2 Accessing Settings:

Next, in vMix, navigate to the “Settings” menu, located at the top right corner of the main interface. This menu hosts various configurable parameters, allowing you to customize your vMix experience according to your production needs. Click the “Scripting” tab of Settings to get started.

Section 2: Creating the Auto-Tracking ON Script

1.3 Scripting Menu Navigation:

Within the “Scripting” option from the left navigation pane, you will see the “Add”, “Edit” and “Remove” buttons along with a “Stop All” button. This section is dedicated to creating and managing scripts that can automate various tasks within vMix. It’s here that you will create scripts to control the auto-tracking feature of your PTZOptics camera. If you’re new to scripting, don’t worry; we will walk you through each step, ensuring you can follow along, regardless of your experience level.

Add AutoTracking to vMix
Add AutoTracking to vMix

2.1 Adding a New Script:

Once you are in the scripting menu, initiate the process by clicking on the “Add” button. This action will open a new window where you will create the script to enable the auto-tracking feature on your PTZOptics camera.

2.2 Naming the Script:

In this new window, you will be prompted to provide a name for your script. For the sake of this guide, we will name it “ATrackON.” This name will serve as an identifier, allowing you to execute the correct script when needed.

2.3 Entering the Code:

In the same window, you will find a main text entry field. Here, you will input the following code:

Dim webStream As Stream
Dim webResponse = ""
Dim req As HttpWebRequest
Dim res As HttpWebResponse
req = CType(WebRequest.Create("http://192.168.100.88/cgi-bin/param.cgi?set_overlay&autotracking&on"), HttpWebRequest)
res = CType(req.GetResponse(), HttpWebResponse)
webStream = res.GetResponseStream() ' Get Response
Dim webStreamReader As New StreamReader(webStream)
While webStreamReader.Peek >= 0
webResponse = webStreamReader.ReadToEnd()
End While

This code is responsible for sending an HTTP command to turn ON the auto-tracking feature of a PTZOptics product. Ensure that you replace the IP address “192.168.100.88” with the actual IP address assigned to your camera.

2.4 Saving the Script:

After entering the code correctly, click “SAVE.” This action will store the script in vMix, making it available for use. After saving, click “Close” to exit the script creation window.

Creating a script in vMix is a straightforward process, but attention to detail is crucial. Each line of code serves a specific purpose, and altering it can affect the functionality of the script. Always ensure the accuracy of the IP address and the commands to avoid unexpected behaviors during production.

Auto Tracking On and Off in vMix
Auto Tracking On and Off in vMix

Section 3: Creating the Auto-Tracking OFF Script

3.1 Adding Another New Script:

Return to the scripting menu and initiate the creation of a second script by clicking the “Add” button again. This script will serve as a counterpart to the first one, allowing you to disable the auto-tracking feature on your PTZOptics camera when needed.

3.2 Naming the OFF Script:

In the creation window, assign a name to your new script. For consistency and easy identification, we will name it “ATrackOFF.”

3.3 Entering the OFF Code:

In the text entry field of the same window, input the following code:

Dim webStream As Stream
Dim webResponse = ""
Dim req As HttpWebRequest
Dim res As HttpWebResponse
req = CType(WebRequest.Create("http://192.168.100.88/cgi-bin/param.cgi?set_overlay&autotracking&off"), HttpWebRequest)
res = CType(req.GetResponse(), HttpWebResponse)
webStream = res.GetResponseStream() ' Get Response
Dim webStreamReader As New StreamReader(webStream)
While webStreamReader.Peek >= 0
webResponse = webStreamReader.ReadToEnd()
End While

This piece of code is tailored to send an HTTP command to turn OFF the auto-tracking feature of a PTZOptics product. It’s imperative to replace the IP address “192.168.100.88” with the actual IP address of your camera to ensure proper communication between vMix and your camera.

3.4 Reiteration on IP Address:

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to input the correct IP address corresponding to your PTZOptics camera. This ensures that the scripts communicate effectively with the intended device, allowing you to gain control over the auto-tracking feature seamlessly.

3.5 Saving and Closing:

Once you’ve ensured that the code and the IP address are correctly entered, click “SAVE” to store the OFF script in vMix. After saving, close the script creation window to return to the main scripting menu.

Having both ON and OFF scripts inside vMix allows you to have full control over the auto-tracking feature, enabling you to adapt quickly to different filming scenarios. Ensuring the accuracy of each script is crucial for a smooth and error-free production experience.

vMix Shortcut to turn on Auto-Tracking
vMix Shortcut to turn on Auto-Tracking

Section 4: Testing the Scripts with Shortcuts

4.1 Assigning Shortcuts for ON Script:

With your scripts saved and ready, the next step is to assign shortcuts to execute them efficiently. In the main interface of vMix, select “Shortcuts.” Once there, click the “Add” button to assign a shortcut key. For the ON script, you might, for example, choose the key “G.”

  • Key/Control: Assign the key you would like to use to trigger tracking ON, e.g., “G.”
  • Function: Navigate to Scripting → Select ScriptStart.
  • Value: Assign the name of the ON script, “ATrackON.”
  • Title: Name it “ATrackON” for consistent identification.

After assigning the key and the functions, click “OK” to save this shortcut.

4.2 Assigning Shortcuts for OFF Script:

Repeat the above steps to assign a shortcut for the OFF script. It’s advisable to choose a different key to avoid any confusion. For instance, you can assign the key “H” for the OFF script.

  • Key/Control: Assign a different key, e.g., “H.”
  • Function: Again, navigate to Scripting → Select ScriptStart.
  • Value: Assign the name of the OFF script, “ATrackOFF.”
  • Title: Name it “ATrackOFF” for consistent identification.

Once done, click “OK” to save this second shortcut.

4.3 Testing the Scripts:

Now, with the shortcuts assigned, test the scripts by pressing the corresponding keys you assigned as shortcuts. Pressing key “G” should start the auto-tracking, and pressing key “H” should stop it. Ensure that each key executes its assigned function correctly, allowing for seamless toggling between auto-tracking ON and OFF.

Assigning shortcuts is a crucial step for operational efficiency. It allows for quick toggling between different states of auto-tracking, providing flexibility and adaptability during live productions. Successful testing ensures that your setup is ready for action, allowing you to focus more on the creative aspects of your production, with assurance in the reliability of your controls.

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • If the scripts are not working as expected, double-check the assigned keys, script names, and the IP addresses in the scripts.
  • Ensure that you have the correct vMix edition that supports scripting and PTZ controls.
  • Consult the vMix and PTZOptics support forums and resources for additional help and information.

Further Automation with Triggers

Using Triggers to further automate Auto-Tracking ON and OFF

Do you want to automate auto-tracking even further? You can do so with vMix Triggers. Triggers in vMix are actions that are automatically performed when a specific event occurs, such as transitioning to a specific input. These can be used to automate various aspects of your production workflow.

For instance, you can set up a trigger to run a script when a specific input is taken live or when a particular overlay is accessed. This could allow you to automate the execution of scripts, including those that control the auto-tracking features of PTZOptics cameras, based on events occurring during your production.

To set up a trigger:

  1. Go to Input Settings: Select the input you want to associate with the trigger, and go to its “Input Settings”.
  2. Navigate to the Triggers Tab: Inside the “Input Settings”, navigate to the “Triggers” tab.
  3. Add a Trigger: Click on the “Add” button to create a new trigger.
  4. Select an Event: Choose the event that will activate the trigger from the drop-down menu.
  5. Assign a Function: Assign a function to the trigger. For running scripts, you would select “ScriptStart” and then choose the script you want to run.
  6. Choose a Value: For example, enter value “ATrackON”

Remember to test the trigger thoroughly to ensure it activates the script as intended in your live production environment.

Conclusion:

Having walked through vMix scripting with PTZOptics cameras, you have unlocked a seamless way to control the auto-tracking features of our cameras. By crafting meticulous scripts to toggle auto-tracking ON and OFF and assigning efficient shortcuts, we’ve established a flexible and responsive video production environment.

Remember, the essence of this integration lies in the availability of vMix 4K, Pro, or vMix Max editions, which grant access to the pivotal scripting and PTZ control features not available in the lower-tier Basic HD and HD licenses. It is these advanced features that empower users to blend the innovative capabilities of PTZOptics cameras with the versatile environment of vMix, paving the way for dynamic and engaging content creation.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Scripting Proficiency: The mastery of vMix scripting allows for the automation of various tasks, enabling a smooth and intuitive interaction with PTZOptics cameras.
  2. Accurate Details: The accuracy in details, especially the IP addresses and script names, is crucial for the flawless execution of scripts.
  3. Efficient Controls: The assignment of shortcuts provides quick access to the scripts, allowing for swift adjustments during live productions.
  4. Advanced Features Accessibility: The utilization of vMix 4K, Pro, or Max editions is essential for accessing advanced features like scripting and PTZ controls, enabling enhanced integration with PTZOptics cameras.

Final Thoughts:

As we conclude this guide, encourage yourself to explore the vast possibilities that vMix scripting offers, especially in tandem with the sophisticated features of PTZOptics cameras. The journey doesn’t end here; delve deeper, experiment with different scripts, and explore various camera commands to tailor your production environment to your unique creative vision. And most importantly, always ensure that every detail is accurate and every step is tested to secure a seamless and enriching video production experience.

Download the Guide: If you would like to download this guide as a PDF you can do so here.

The post How to use vMix for Auto-Tracking with PTZOptics Cameras appeared first on PTZOptics.

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New Camera Focus Controls in vMix https://ptzoptics.com/new-camera-focus-controls-in-vmix/ Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:08:37 +0000 https://ptzoptics.com/?p=15652 vMix 24 has just been announced, and there are quite a few features PTZ camera operators show know about. The first is camera focus controls which allows you to dial in the focus on your IP connected PTZOptics cameras. Another feature you should know about is tally light support for virtual PTZ camera inputs. The …

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vMix 24 has just been announced, and there are quite a few features PTZ camera operators show know about. The first is camera focus controls which allows you to dial in the focus on your IP connected PTZOptics cameras. Another feature you should know about is tally light support for virtual PTZ camera inputs. The tally light support for PTZ cameras in vMix will be covered in an upcoming video. In this blog post, you will learn all about the fine-tune focus controls now available for PTZOptics cameras inside of vMix.

vMix camera control options

Once you upgrade your vMix to the most current version, you will notice a focus control checkbox in the PTZ tab of vMix. PTZ camera controls are only available for vMix users with 4K or Pro licenses. If you do not have a 4K or Pro license of vMix you can still gain access to focus controls in a variety of ways. One of the easiest ways to control PTZOptics cameras focus is the web-interface made available on your local area network using the camera’s static IP address. Each PTZOptics camera can be controlled over the network and the web-browser features a focus “lock” which can be very useful. You can also access fine tuning focus controls with the free PTZOptics camera control app.

Inside of vMix, assuming you have a 4K or Pro license, you can open any PTZOptics camera and access the pan, tilt, zoom and focus controls in the PTZ tab of the input. Here, you will need to connect to your camera using the IP address. You can learn how to set up a static IP address for your camera in the camera setup video or by reviewing the manual. Once connected, you will gain access to the PTZ and focus camera controls.

Camera focus control in vMix

To access the focus controls for your PTZOptics cameras inside of vMix you need to click the focus checkbox. Once checked, you can operate the focus using the “+” and “-” buttons available inside of vMix.

Note: The Zoom controls inside of vMix will turn auto-focus back on. If you would like to lock the focus this is done with the PTZOptics camera control app or the web-browser interface. Locking the focus is ideal for some video production scenarios.

When you start to zoom the auto-focus is turned back on in PTZOptics cameras by default. Therefore, this feature in vMix 24 is nice for temporarily dialing in the focus of your camera. For example, when you start to adjust the focus of a PTZOptics camera with vMix, auto-focus is turned off. So you can choose a specific point of focus and the camera’s auto-focus will not change. The auto-focus will not turn on until you zoom to a new location. In this way, you can easily find the ideal focus and further tweak the settings with vMix on the fly.

IP camera controllable focus with vMix

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Controlling Multiple PTZ Cameras in Scenes https://ptzoptics.com/controlling-multiple-ptz-cameras-in-scenes/ Tue, 23 Feb 2021 23:21:34 +0000 https://ptzoptics.com/?p=15632 Controlling multiple cameras at the same time used to take a crew of camera operators. Today there are a variety of ways to control multiple robotic (PTZ) cameras with a single click of a button. Controlling multiple PTZ cameras at the same time is ideal for “scene changes” where you would like some or all …

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Controlling multiple cameras at the same time used to take a crew of camera operators. Today there are a variety of ways to control multiple robotic (PTZ) cameras with a single click of a button. Controlling multiple PTZ cameras at the same time is ideal for “scene changes” where you would like some or all of your PTZ cameras to move to a new location at the same time.

In this blog post and video, you will learn how to control multiple PTZ cameras simultaneously using software and hardware solutions. A great free solution you will learn about is called OBS or Open Broadcaster Software. A paid solution that can be used to control multiple PTZ cameras at the same time is called vMix. Finally, we will look at a hardware solution from PTZOptics called the SuperJoy.

 

Why control multiple PTZ cameras at the same time?

More and more, video producers are also becoming camera operators. With the advent of remotely controlled PTZ cameras, a single video production person can also operate PTZ cameras with the click of a button. In many scenarios, video producers are operating two or three PTZ cameras at the same time using a video production software like OBS, Wirecast, vMix, Livestream Studio or the Tricaster. Many video production software solutions have integrated PTZ cameras controls for PTZOptics cameras which allow the software on a Mac or PC computer to connect to PTZ cameras over the local area network.

In most cases today, video production software operators are able to quickly take control of a robotic camera and move the camera’s position directly through the live streaming software they are using. This is ideal during a live production, because a production operator can simply make a few clicks, zoom in a camera, check the focus and then transition to the camera taking the video live.

Another popular way to control multiple PTZ cameras is to have a hardware joystick for the video production operator to use. Hardware joysticks are popular because a team of two can split up the tasks between live video switching and camera operation. Whether you are using hardware or software for PTZ camera controls, it’s nice to be able to move multiple PTZ cameras at the same time with the click of a button.

 

How to control multiple PTZ cameras in OBS at the same time

 

 

Using OBS you can control PTZOptics cameras in a couple of different ways. The most popular way is to install the free PTZOptics OBS plugin which adds some great robotic camera control features to OBS. Once installed, you can open up the plugin and control up to 8 cameras. The plugin even create specific hotkeys for calling PTZ presets and it adds the ability to control cameras with an XBox joystick. There is another way to control PTZOptics cameras with OBS called a “Dockable” interface using HTML codes available from PTZOptics. The HTML files can be used with the “Docks” feature of OBS to dock a PTZ camera controller directly into the OBS interface. You can learn more about that here. 

Control multiple cameras with OBS

The third way to control PTZOptics cameras with OBS involves using HTTP commands. A document reviewing all of the HTTP commands for PTZOptics cameras can be found at the PTZOptics downloads page. These commands can be entered into OBS using the “Browser Source” input and they can be used to call a PTZ camera preset for example. In this way, you can enter multiple HTTP commands into OBS using multiple browser sources in the same scene to control various cameras. 

Pro Tip: Set up each camera in your network with sequential static IP addresses. In this way, you can easily input HTTP commands into OBS for this purpose. 

Using OBS to control multiple cameras at the same time simple involves a scene that is setup with multiple browser sources with HTTP commands. Remember to select “Refresh when active” to ensure OBS issues the HTTP commands everytime that you select the scene in OBS. 

Pro Tip: You can issue other HTTP commands besides camera presets as well. Check out the full list of HTTP commands in the PTZOptics documentation to learn more.

 

How to control multiple PTZ cameras with vMix

 

 

You can control multiple PTZ cameras with vMix using the Pro or 4K versions of the software. In order to take control over PTZ cameras inside of vMix you will need to know your PTZ camera’s IP address and be on the same local area network as the cameras. If you do not know your camera’s IP address, you will need to follow the instructions in the cameras set up video. Once you know your camera’s IP address, you can simply enter it into vMix to gain PTZ camera control. 

Select PTZOptics as the camera type, enter the IP address and click connect. You can use the Pan, Tilt and Zoom controls to start moving your camera around the room. As you are controlling the camera, notice the speed options available for manual pan/tilt and preset pan/tilt. These are the controls you can use to tell vMix the speed at which you want the camera to move in a manual setting and during presets. 

Control multiple cameras using vMix

In order to control multiple PTZ camera movements with vMix, you will need to start by creating PTZ presets. Once connected to a PTZ camera with vMix, you are able to create presets inside of vMix using the “Create Input at this Position” button. When you click this button, vMix will create an input with a thumbnail image of the camera’s current location. When you bring this input into the vMix Preview window, vMix will recall that PTZ preset and move the camera. In this way, you can move your PTZOptics camera around your space and create multiple PTZ presets. Each preset gets a nice little PTZ input inside of vMix for easy recall. 

You can repeat the process above with each PTZ camera that you would like to use. Once done, you should organize the PTZ cameras you would like to be able to move with a single click. From here you can use the vMix Multi View feature available in the input settings of any input. Choose the input that you would like to use to trigger all the PTZ cameras. You can then add each PTZ camera input to the Multi View as you build a single input with multiple inputs attached. In this area, you can uncheck each PTZ input making it so the PTZ positions will be recalled but not overlaid on top of each other. Once done, you can transition to this vMix input and call multiple presets at once. You can do this for multiple scenes in your area and quickly call multiple PTZ presets at the exact same time with a single click. 

Pro Tip: If you are using multiple PTZ cameras with vMix, make sure to use a good graphics card. If you have an NVIDIA graphics card make sure to add vMix as a default application in the “NVIDIA Control Panel.” Once you do this, double check in the vMix settings that you have your graphics card enabled. 

 

How to control multiple PTZ cameras at once with a joystick

 

 

PTZOptics has a new product called the PTZOptics SuperJoy. This joystick controller has a new feature called the “SuperPreset” which allows you to use a custom joystick button to control multiple PTZ cameras. The PTZOptics SuperJoy features four custom buttons that you can set up to do all sorts of video related tasks. For example, you can set up a custom SuperJoy button to turn on IP connected lighting in a studio setting. You can control pretty much anything that accepts a TCP/UDP, or HTTP command. Luckily, PTZOptics cameras have been designed to work with this joystick and the engineers have already setup the “SuperPreset” to control up to 6 cameras at once. 

Control multiple cameras with the SuperJoy

To get started, connect your PTZOptics SuperJoy to the network. You will need to connect your joystick to the cameras you which to control. The SuperJoy is able to control PTZ cameras using Serial or IP connections. The easiest way to connect your joystick to cameras is through the IP interface. You can reach this interface by entering the IP address shown on the device screen into any modern web browser. This will bring up the joystick interface which you can use to configure the unit. The first thing to do is make sure that all of your PTZ cameras are connected properly. Next you can navigate to the “custom” tab which allows you to configure the four custom buttons on the joystick. 

These custom buttons can be set up to issue HTTP, TCP, and UDP commands over your network. There is also an option to choose “SuperPreset” which allows you to issue multiple PTZOptics cameras preset commands at once plus add a single HTTP command. The idea is that for a seamless scene change you can move multiple PTZ cameras and issue an HTTP command to a software like OBS or vMix to change changes with a single command. Going down the SuperPreset list you can select multiple cameras and choose the order in which the joystick will issue the commands. At the end you can also choose an HTTP command.

 

Conclusion

There are now quite a few ways to control multiple PTZ cameras with a single button. Doing this is ideal for fast-paced video productions with small teams. In recent years, as video production software has allowed producers to add camera control to their workflow, more has become possible. Controlling multiple PTZ cameras at once during a production can make life easier for operators. My advice is to think about where you want your PTZ cameras to be during a given live stream. Map out the PTZ preset positions you would like cameras to move and then correlate them to other cameras you might have. Once you have mapped out where you want your cameras to move and when, create simple one-click buttons to do so. This will make scene changes in your live streams much easier to manage. 

The post Controlling Multiple PTZ Cameras in Scenes appeared first on PTZOptics.

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How to control multiple PTZ cameras in vMix https://ptzoptics.com/how-to-control-multiple-ptz-cameras-in-vmix/ Fri, 29 Jan 2021 17:17:00 +0000 https://ptzoptics.com/?p=15541 Why control multiple PTZ cameras at the same time? More and more, video producers are also becoming camera operators. With the advent of remotely controlled PTZ cameras, a single video production person can also operate PTZ cameras with the click of a button. In many scenarios, video producers are operating two or three PTZ cameras …

The post How to control multiple PTZ cameras in vMix appeared first on PTZOptics.

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Why control multiple PTZ cameras at the same time?

More and more, video producers are also becoming camera operators. With the advent of remotely controlled PTZ cameras, a single video production person can also operate PTZ cameras with the click of a button. In many scenarios, video producers are operating two or three PTZ cameras at the same time using a video production software like OBS, Wirecast, vMix, Livestream Studio or the Tricaster. Many video production software solutions have integrated PTZ cameras controls for PTZOptics cameras which allow the software on a Mac or PC computer to connect to PTZ cameras over the local area network. 

Setting up multiple PTZ cameras in vMix

In most cases today, video production software operators are able to quickly take control of a robotic camera and move the camera’s position directly through the live streaming software they are using. This is ideal during a live production, because a production operator can simply make a few clicks, zoom in a camera, check the focus and then transition to the camera taking the video live.

Another popular way to control multiple PTZ cameras is to have a hardware joystick for the video production operator to use. Hardware joysticks are popular because a team of two can split up the tasks between live video switching and camera operation. Whether you are using hardware or software for PTZ camera controls, it’s nice to be able to move multiple PTZ cameras at the same time with the click of a button. 

PTZ Control in vMix for Scene ChangesHow to use vMix with PTZ camera controls

You can control multiple PTZ cameras with vMix using the Pro or 4K versions of the software. In order to take control over PTZ cameras inside of vMix you will need to know your PTZ camera’s IP address and be on the same local area network as the cameras. If you do not know your camera’s IP address, you will need to follow the instructions in the cameras set up video. Once you know your camera’s IP address, you can simply enter it into vMix to gain PTZ camera control. 

Select PTZOptics as the camera type, enter the IP address and click connect. You can use the Pan, Tilt and Zoom controls to start moving your camera around the room. As you are controlling the camera, notice the speed options available for manual pan/tilt and preset pan/tilt. These are the controls you can use to tell vMix the speed at which you want the camera to move in a manual setting and during presets. 

Multiple sets in a studio

In order to control multiple PTZ camera movements with vMix, you will need to start by creating PTZ presets. Once connected to a PTZ camera with vMix, you are able to create presets inside of vMix using the “Create Input at this Position” button. When you click this button, vMix will create an input with a thumbnail image of the camera’s current location. When you bring this input into the vMix Preview window, vMix will recall that PTZ preset and move the camera. In this way, you can move your PTZOptics camera around your space and create multiple PTZ presets. Each preset gets a nice little PTZ input inside of vMix for easy recall. 

You can repeat the process above with each PTZ camera that you would like to use. Once done, you should organize the PTZ cameras you would like to be able to move with a single click. From here you can use the vMix Multi View feature available in the input settings of any input. Choose the input that you would like to use to trigger all the PTZ cameras. You can then add each PTZ camera input to the Multi View as you build a single input with multiple inputs attached. In this area, you can uncheck each PTZ input making it so the PTZ positions will be recalled but not overlaid on top of each other. Once done, you can transition to this vMix input and call multiple presets at once. You can do this for multiple scenes in your area and quickly call multiple PTZ presets at the exact same time with a single click. 

Pro Tip:

If you are using multiple PTZ cameras with vMix, make sure to use a good graphics card. If you have an NVIDIA graphics card make sure to add vMix as a default application in the “NVIDIA Control Panel.” Once you do this, double check in the vMix settings that you have your graphics card enabled. 

Organizing IP Cameras in vMixConclusion

There are now quite a few ways to control multiple PTZ cameras with a single button. Doing this is ideal for fast-paced video productions with small teams. In recent years, as video production software has allowed producers to add camera control to their workflow, more has become possible. Controlling multiple PTZ cameras at once during a production can make life easier for operators. My advice is to think about where you want your PTZ cameras to be during a given live stream. Map out the PTZ preset positions you would like cameras to move and then correlate them to other cameras you might have. Once you have mapped out where you want your cameras to move and when, create simple one-click buttons to do so. This will make scene changes in your live streams much easier to manage. 

The post How to control multiple PTZ cameras in vMix appeared first on PTZOptics.

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The Unofficial Guide to vMix is here! https://ptzoptics.com/the-unofficial-guide-to-vmix-is-here/ Fri, 25 Sep 2020 17:12:09 +0000 https://ptzoptics.com/?p=15120 vMix has quickly become one of the most popular professional live streaming software solutions today. The reason is very simple. The vMix software is affordable, and it offers some of the best features available for video production. Many hear about vMix from a friend, or online because of the active community of users. One of …

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vMix has quickly become one of the most popular professional live streaming software solutions today. The reason is very simple. The vMix software is affordable, and it offers some of the best features available for video production. Many hear about vMix from a friend, or online because of the active community of users. One of the reasons vMix is so popular is because the community using vMix is constantly collaborating and finding new ways to use the software.

The Unofficial Guide to vMix Book
The Unofficial Guide to vMix Book

Enter: The Unofficial Guide to vMix

If you have thought about using vMix for live streaming or video production, it might finally be time to jump on board. Yes, vMix is only for Windows, and yes, it’s used by some of the top world broadcasters. But, vMix no longer has to be difficult to learn. The Unofficial Guide to vMix is now offered for free by the StreamGeeks here. The book breaks down the top software features in and includes them in one easy to read book. Becoming a video production expert takes time, and even beginners need a start place. vMix is a great choice for many because you can trust that the software has enough features to grow into as you learn.

The Unofficial Guide to vMix
The Unofficial Guide to vMix

The Online Course for vMix

Along with the book, an online course to learn vMix is also available here. This online course has been updated to feature the latest vMix release. If you are thinking about increasing your video production skill set, reading this book is a great starting point. Then you can consider taking the online course on Udemy to enhance your knowledge. Finally, you should consider joining the online communities of users online. vMix has a vast user base online who talk in the forums, participate in Facebook Groups, and most importantly share their knowledge.

Join The StreamGeeks Group

Learning is a collaborative process for many. Perhaps you are a life-long learner, interested in casually learning about live streaming. Get up to speed and enjoy a place to post questions in the StreamGeeks Facebook Group here. Many other group members have already read the Unofficial Guide to vMix and are eager to help others.

PTZOptics Camera Integration with vMix

Did you know  PTZOptics cameras integrate with vMix? You can learn more here.

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