Sindre Sorhus

Camera Preview

Preview your webcam and take photos

Instant access to your Mac’s camera feed for quick checks before video calls.


Tips

  • Press the Return or Space key while showing the camera feed to take a photo.
  • Press the Command and + key to zoom in, Command and - to zoom out, and Command and 0 to reset the zoom.
  • Press the Option key while resizing the window to resize from the center (this works with any app).

Frequently Asked Questions

I have a feature request, bug report, or some feedback

Send it here.

Can you add support for making the camera feed a circle?

I don’t plan to add that. I plan to make a separate app specifically for showing the camera on presentations and screencasts, which will have this feature.

How is this better than Photo Booth?

  • Convenient access from the menu bar.
  • Toggle it via a keyboard shortcut.
  • Higher quality camera output.
  • Does not crop the camera output.
  • Minimalistic design with no window frame.
  • Takes photos without the countdown.
  • Photos are saved to the file system, not hidden inside the app.
  • The window can be made to always stay on top of other windows.
  • Capture and copy photo in a single action.
  • Made by an indie developer that listens to users.

How is this better than QuickTime?

  • Shows the camera faster. One click instead of multiple.
  • Convenient access from the menu bar.
  • Toggle it via a keyboard shortcut.
  • Remembers window size and postion.
  • Takes photos.
  • The window can be made to always stay on top of other windows.
  • Capture and copy photo in a single action.

How is this better than Hand Mirror?

It’s not. Hand Mirror has more features, while mine is free. This is simply my take on the problem space. I suggest trying out both to see which one you like the best.

What resources are used when the app is in the menu bar?

When the camera window is closed or minimized, the camera is turned off. The app consumes approximately 40 MB of RAM and 0% of CPU when running in the background.

Do you plan to add background removal?

I don’t have any immediate plans for this. Maybe in a year when AI background removal has progressed further.

Do you plan to add filters?

No

Can it record video?

No. That’s outside the scope of this app. You can use the built-in QuickTime Player app for that.

Why is this free without ads?

I just enjoy making apps. Consider leaving a nice review on the App Store.

Where can I find the changelog?

Go here and click “Version History”.

Can you localize the app into my language?

I don’t plan to localize the app.

More FAQs…


Older Versions


Non-App Store Version

A special version for users that cannot access the App Store. It won’t receive automatic updates. I will update it here once a year.

Download (1.5.0)

Requires macOS 14 or later