Recommended Free Tools
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
To frame a webcam in OBS Studio, add the camera as a Video Capture Source, then add a frame graphic as an Image source above it. Use artwork with a transparent center so the camera remains visible through the frame. You can reposition and resize sources in the preview, or use OBS’s Edit Transform window for more precise placement.
Choose the right kind of frame
- Static decorative frame: Use a PNG with transparency in the area where the webcam should show through. Elgato’s overlay guidance recommends PNG for static transparent artwork. Elgato’s OBS overlay guide.
- Animated frame: Elgato recommends WEBM for animated overlays that need transparency. Add it as a media source in OBS; exact source options can vary by OBS version. Elgato’s OBS overlay guide.
- Round or irregular opening: Use a matching mask asset or an image mask filter to clip the webcam. Confirm the filter’s name and available controls in your installed OBS build; the cited mask reference does not establish the exact labels for every version. Elgato’s guide and the hosted image-mask reference.
- Plain solid-color border: OBS includes a Color Source that can be used as part of a layered border treatment. The basic workflow below explains the sources and their stacking, but there is no single sizing formula that suits every layout.
Add a webcam frame in OBS
- Open the scene. In OBS Studio, select the scene where the webcam should appear, or create a scene for it.
- Add the camera. In the Sources panel, select + → Video Capture Source, create or select a source, then choose your webcam in its device settings. OBS’s webcam FAQ identifies a Video Capture Source as the way to add a webcam: OBS FAQ.
- Add the frame artwork. Select Sources → + → Image, create or select the source, and browse to your frame file. OBS lists Image as a source type in its Sources Guide.
- Put the frame above the webcam. In the Sources list, drag the image above the camera. Higher sources render in front of lower ones; as the OBS Project explains, “A Source that is listed above another Source in the list will be on top and might hide what’s beneath it.” OBS Sources Guide.
- Fit the sources together. Select the webcam in the preview and drag its bounding box to place and resize it. Then select the frame and position or resize it so the camera fills the transparent opening without covering the artwork. For numerical adjustments, select the source and use Edit → Transform → Edit Transform. OBS documents cropping by holding Alt while dragging on Windows or Linux, and Option while dragging on macOS. OBS Sources Guide.
- Check the result. Look at the complete scene preview: the camera should show through the opening, the frame should sit on top, and the frame image should not have an opaque center. If the opening is not rectangular, use a suitable mask rather than expecting a rectangular frame image to crop the camera into a circle or custom shape.
Build a simple solid-color border
For a basic border without decorative artwork, use a Color Source alongside the webcam. OBS documents Color Source as a built-in source type. A straightforward approach is to place a larger colored shape behind a smaller webcam image, leaving a visible margin around the camera; arrange the sources in the Sources list so the webcam sits over the color. The exact appearance depends on your canvas and camera dimensions, so adjust the source bounds in the preview or Edit Transform rather than relying on a universal pixel measurement. If you want a border with a cut-out center or a non-rectangular camera opening, a transparent image or mask is usually easier to control.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Fix common framing problems
- The frame hides the webcam: The image source may be below the camera, or its center may be opaque. Move the frame above the camera and use artwork with a transparent opening.
- The webcam covers the frame: Move the webcam below the frame in the Sources list. Sources higher in the list render on top.
- The camera does not fit the opening: Select the webcam and adjust its position and size in the preview or Edit Transform. Avoid resizing the frame and camera independently without checking the scene preview.
- A round frame still shows a rectangular camera: The overlay alone does not clip the webcam. Add a suitable image mask or use a mask asset, and verify the available filter label and controls in your OBS version.
- The animated frame has no transparency: Check that the file and overlay workflow support transparency; Elgato recommends WEBM for animated transparent overlays. If the result remains opaque, try a compatible asset or a static transparent PNG.
Or let it run in the cloud
OBS is the do-it-yourself choice for adding a webcam frame to a live camera scene. If your separate goal is to keep uploaded videos looping as a 24/7 YouTube live stream, StreamNeo runs that playback in the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on. Each slot streams your uploads as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo plays uploaded videos to YouTube; it does not stream from a camera. Start with StreamNeo’s free first day.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Laptop Camera Cover Slide, 6 Pack Ultra-Thin 0.022in Webcam Cover Blocker
- 【Protect Privacy Security】Focusing on network security, now we can easily and effectively protect personal and family privacy security , Just gently slide the slide and close the camera, you can stop the intrusion of hackers.
- 【 Ultra Thin Design】The new ultra-thin design, with a thickness of only 0.022 inches, is made of flexible ABS material and is not fragile. Will not affect the closing of the laptops and scratch the laptops.
- 【Easy to install】 Strong adhesive makes the cover not fall, keep the screen clean and free of stains during installation, tear off the adhesive tape on the back, align it with our camera, and press hard for 10 seconds to work.
- 【Compatible with 】Compatible with camera for Laptop, tablet, computers, Echo Show and Apple Devices,as: MacBook Pro,Macbook Air,iMac ,Mac mini,iPad,MacBook Air, iPhone 6/7/8 Plus etc front camera .
- [What you get] 6 pack black webcam covers.
Rank #4
JCWINY Webcam Cover, 2 Pack Desktop Computer External Webcam Lens Covers Shutter Cap Hood, Streaming Web Camera Privacy Cover Clip Compatible with Logitech HD Pro Web Cam C270/C615/C920/C930e/C922X
- 【Premium Webcam Cover】This webcam privacy cover is an accessory of computer webcam. No worry about interfering with web camera lens use or indicator light; No damage to your device in any way as well. A helpful privacy protector and dust separator
- 【Privacy Protector】Slide the web camera cover over your webcam lens when not in use, and prevents web hackers from Spying on you. It is perfect to provide privacy security and peace of mind to individuals, groups, organizations, companies and governments. It also protects your camera lens from dust, and keeps it in high-definition resolution all the ways
- 【Durable Material】The web cam cover is made of high-strength plastic, which ensures that your privacy is protected for a long and lasting period of time. The back of the web camera privacy cover slide also has a strong 3M adhesive layer. It helps the privacy protector stick firmly to your device. The most convenient, super thin design, and extra mini size, make it perfectly combine with your devices
- 【Wide Compatibility】This webcam cover is compatible with most popular webcams with flat area surrounding lens or with protruding lens, such as Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 C920x C930e and C922, Logitech C615 and C270 (NOT fit Logitech C910, B910, C310). It can be also used as a cover for the peep hole on door
- 【For Logitech Webcam Cover】 The streamcam cover kit comes with 2 pack. Please clean the lens surface before applying. Make sure the mounting surface is cleaned completely so that it sticks properly and firmly
Rank #3
Yilador Webcam Cover 3 Pack, 0.03 inch Ultra Thin Laptop Camera Cover Slide
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Rank #2
CloudValley Laptop Camera Cover Slide, Metal 0.023 Inch Ultra-Thin, 2 Packs | Web Webcam Cover for MacBook Pro / Air, Laptop, iMac, iPad, iPhone 8/7, Computer Accessories, Privacy Protection, Black
- Privacy Protection: CloudValley webcam cover is designed for those who prioritize privacy, security, and peace of mind when using laptops, tablets, and computers
- Fashion Design: The space aluminum alloy webcam cover features a subtle design which compliments the beautiful aesthetic of top devices
- Ultra-Thin Design: Measures only 0.023 (0.6 mm) inch thin, ensuring it does not interfere with closing your laptop or device while providing reliable camera coverage
- Broad Compatibility: Works flawlessly with most laptops (MacBook, HP, Dell, Asus, Acer, Lenovo), All-in-One PCs and leading tablets including iPad, Surface Pro, Galaxy Tab, Fire HD, and Google Pixel Tablet
- Simple to Use: Only need to align to the webcam, attach and press it firmly for 15 seconds. Does not interfere with web use or indicator light
#1 Best Overall
CloudValley Webcam Cover for Logitech C920x / C920 / C922x / C922 / C930e | C920x HD Pro Web Cam Compatible, Camera Cover Protects Lens & Security, Protect Your Visual Privacy, Black
- Privacy Protection and Lens Care: Avoid private information from hacking while preventing dust-fall and scratching of the camera lens
- Multiple Compatibility: Suitable for Logitech webcam C920x, C920, C922, C930e, C922x Pro Stream HD Camera
- Artful Design: Modeled and designed exclusively to fit the above devices from Logitech and make it more stylish
- Easy Flip Mechanism: Can be turned 180 angle and easily take the cover off when flipping more than 180
- Simple Installation: Attaches securely to your Logitech webcam without leaving residue, allowing for quick and hassle-free setup
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
