If you are facing the incessant Camera Connection Error then this is a good workflow to try.
This workflow is for using an app other than Zoom, but for me it has been necessary to use Zoom to start the camera connection. If you are using Zoom for your online meetings then you can stop at step 9 as the camera is now working.
- Ensure the GoPro is set to GoPro Connect rather than MTP in Connections>USB Connection
- Plug a USB lead into the GoPro and a USB hub or port on your computer and switch on hub if needed
- Press the power button on GoPro
- Windows will likely give a "Camera Connection Error"
- Ignore that
- Open Zoom
- Go to Settings in Zoom
- Choose Test Video
- The camera preview screen in Zoom should now show the camera's view, give it a few seconds
- The GoPro's screen, back and front if active, should also be showing live
- In the bottom bar of Windows, open the GoPro Webcam app
- Choose Preview and a camera preview screen will appear, keep this open and you can even minimise it
- If using another app, which I sometimes do, then close Zoom but keep the Preview pane from step 11 open
- When recording, the GoPro's front screen will show ACTIVE in a red bar at the top of the screen and the red LED should flash
To disconnect, close the app and close the Webcam Preview window, after a few seconds the camera screen will change to USB Connected and the LED will be on constantly. Then unplug the cable or switch off the USB hub and the screen will come back to live. Switch off and all is done.
So there you go, I can now use my GoPro Hero 9 as a webcam for my online photography sessions even if every time there is an error from Windows.
If you would like assistance with your photography portfolio, advice on developing your skills and more contact me to arrange on online photography session or come see Ireland for yourself and take one of my photo tours in Dublin, Connemara, Antrim Coast or Kilkenny.
Let me know if this workaround was useful to you.
