Snap Camera is an application created by Snapchat that allows users to apply lenses and filters to their webcam feed. It has grown in popularity in recent years, with many creators and streamers using Snap Camera filters for their content. But is it actually better than using a normal camera? There are pros and cons to both options.
Pros of Using Snap Camera
Here are some of the main benefits of using Snap Camera over a normal camera:
Fun Filters and Lenses
Snap Camera comes with a huge library of lenses and filters to choose from. You can transform yourself into different characters, animals, and more. This level of variety and customization isn’t possible with a normal camera. The lenses are high-quality and look very realistic when applied to your face.
Entertaining for Streaming and Videos
The filters offered by Snap Camera are extremely popular among streamers on platforms like Twitch and content creators on YouTube and TikTok. Viewers find these effects entertaining and engaging. The lenses give creators a way to stand out.
Easy to Use
Snap Camera is designed to be very simple and intuitive to use. Even if you aren’t very tech-savvy, you can easily browse the different lenses and see a live preview of how they look. With just a couple clicks, you can apply filters and start streaming or recording. It’s more user-friendly than manually editing videos after recording.
Compatibility with Streaming Software
A major advantage of Snap Camera is that it’s compatible with popular streaming platforms like OBS and XSplit. This makes it extremely easy for streamers to add Snap lenses to their webcam feed. There’s no need for complicated setup or screen capture.
Free to Use
Snap Camera is a free download with no charges or fees. All of the lenses and filters come included. This makes it very accessible compared to some paid editing and effects software.
Cons of Using Snap Camera
Despite the benefits, Snap Camera does have some downsides compared to normal cameras:
Lower Image Quality
Since Snap Camera relies on webcam input, the image quality is limited to your webcam’s capabilities. Most webcams max out at 1080p resolution and 30 fps frame rate. Normal digital cameras and DSLRs can capture much higher resolution images and video.
Less Versatile
Snap Camera is designed specifically for applying augmented reality effects to faces. Normal cameras can be used to photograph anything – people, objects, landscapes, etc. Snap Camera has limited use cases beyond selfie filters and streaming.
Requires a Face for Filters
The Snapchat filters only work when applied to a detected face. You can’t use them on static images or other subjects. So the lenses don’t provide creative options for other types of photography or videography.
Potential Lag and Latency
Since Snap Camera relies on webcams and is processing live video, some users notice lag, latency, or choppiness depending on their computer setup. DSLR and mirrorless cameras capture directly to storage with no lag.
No Advanced Camera Controls
Snap Camera lacks manual controls for focus, exposure, ISO, shutter speed and other settings. With a normal camera, experienced photographers can fine-tune the camera settings to achieve their creative vision.
Image Quality Comparison
To demonstrate the image quality difference, here are two photos of the same subject. The first was taken with a recent iPhone’s 12MP camera. The second uses a 1080p webcam through Snap Camera with no filters applied:
iPhone 12MP Camera | 1080p Webcam via Snap Camera |
---|---|
As you can see, the DSLR photo is significantly more detailed with better lighting. However, the webcam image is still decent for things like streaming where video quality is less critical.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, normal cameras again tend to outshine Snap Camera:
Capability | DSLR or Mirrorless Camera | Snap Camera |
---|---|---|
Resolution | Up to 45MP for still photos, up to 8K video | Up to 1080p video |
Frame Rate | 60+ fps options available | Max 30 fps |
Low Light Performance | Very good with large sensors | Moderate due to small webcam sensors |
Autofocus Speed | Very fast phase detect AF | Slower contrast detect AF |
Manual Controls | Full manual controls | No manual control |
Connectivity | Wired or high-speed wifi | USB webcam |
DSLR and mirrorless cameras leverage much larger sensors and advanced processing to provide flexibility in resolution, frame rate, autofocus, connectivity and manual controls.
Use Cases Where Snap Camera Performs Well
Despite some limitations compared to normal cameras, Snap Camera excels in these specific use cases:
Streaming and Video Calls
The fun filters and lenses make Snap Camera a favorite for live streaming gaming, vlogging, or other content. The software integration makes it easy to add effects on the fly. Video call users also enjoy using Snap Camera lenses.
YouTube and Social Media Content
Many popular YouTubers use Snap Camera for light-hearted videos, sketches, reactions and memes. Quickly adding augmented reality effects makes for engaging social content.
Adding Some Flair to Webcam Feeds
Webcam users who want to enhance their video feed can use Snap Camera to add some visual interest. The filters add creativity to webcam chats, conference calls, or recordings.
Cosplay and Costume Enhancement
People creating cosplay or costume looks enjoy using Snap Camera lenses like masks and accessories to complete their outfit without difficult editing. The results are more realistic than simple photo filters.
Young Streamers and Content Creators
Younger creators who are new to streaming and making online content can benefit from Snap Camera’s simplicity and pre-made effects. It’s a great entry-level tool before graduating to more advanced equipment.
Conclusion
In most cases, dedicated cameras will beat Snap Camera in image quality, controls, and performance. But Snap Camera still holds its own in specific use cases like streaming, social content, and cost-effective effects. For serious photographers and videographers, standard cameras are still superior. But Snap Camera fills an important niche for creators wanting to add interactive AR effects in real-time. It excels at its intended purpose, even if normal cameras take better quality photos and video overall.
The choice between Snap Camera and a normal camera comes down to your needs and priorities. If you desire professional-grade imagery and maximum creative control, you can’t beat a quality mirrorless or DSLR camera. But if you mainly want fun personal effects for streaming and social media, Snap Camera is hard to top for accessibility and ease of use. Overall, Snap Camera is more targeted at casual consumer use, while normal cameras provide superior quality and control for professionals.