Webcams and MSN Messenger

[Raistlin]

Hi Guys,

A few questions:

1. Is it possilble to take a picture using MSN Messenger? Say I had webcam connected to Messenger and I was able to see the output from it - could I take a picture using that Cam and the MSN Messenger software?
2. Can anyone recommend me a good webcam (doesn't have to be mega resolution, just good enough for people to be able to see me - and preferably one that I can take pictures with online).
3. If I'm having a video conversation with someone is it possible to take a snapshot of what their camera is outputting and save it to my computer?

Thanks

[Paul K]

Most webcams come with software to control them and you can use that software to take snaps with. We use two logitech webcams and they work fine, decent video output and the software lets you take pics too.
Snapshot what their camera is showing? How about a screen cap or something? Camera control is one way and only at the originating end I think.
This is the webcam I use and I've not had a problem with it since I got it.
linky

[Raistlin]

Ok Paul, thanks for that.

What model Logitech have you got?

[Paul K]

See edit lol

[Raistlin]

That's the same one my Dad's got, cheers

[Dave Stones]

i have a creative webcam NX pro can take 1024x768 photos very well... outputs at 640x480 at 30fps too so smooth running on msn for me

has a button which you can press too, which takes photos

[punky]

Like Paul said, the software that comes bundled with it means you can take pictures. I have a creative Webcam Plus Go, it was innovate it as it was the first webcam that doubled as a true digital camera. Its very dated now though.

If you want a webcam, you HAVE to get this:

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/pr...CONTENTID=7172

Its so cool. It follows you around the room, and has a red light on it. Makes you think you have HAL9000 for a PC Bit creepy though too.

Originally Posted by Raistlin

Is it possilble to take a picture using MSN Messenger? Say I had webcam connected to Messenger and I was able to see the output from it - could I take a picture using that Cam and the MSN Messenger software?

No. (and yes... read on.)

Originally Posted by Raistlin

Can anyone recommend me a good webcam (doesn't have to be mega resolution, just good enough for people to be able to see me - and preferably one that I can take pictures with online).

I recently bought 2 webcams on a BOGOF offer at PC World. Packard Bell, with integrated microphone. All for £30 (for both!)
Clarity is good, resolution is fine for MSN use.

Originally Posted by Raistlin

If I'm having a video conversation with someone is it possible to take a snapshot of what their camera is outputting and save it to my computer? Thanks

I use Bulent's Screen Recorder (see http://johnbokma.com/softwarerecomme...nrecorder.html) which works very well and allows capture of clips and/or snapshots.

And it works with ANY on-screen display application.