Use Ipad As External Monitor For Video Camera

How To Use Your Ipad As An External Monitor For Your Video Camera

Are you a videographer looking to expand your shooting options? Or maybe you just want to create your own DIY studio with affordable equipment? Whatever your goal, one useful tool you may already have on hand is an iPad. Believe it or not, your trusty tablet can be used as an external monitor for your video camera.

Why Use an iPad as an External Monitor?

Using an iPad as an external monitor can be a game changer for videographers in several ways. Here are some of the benefits:

Portability: iPads are lightweight and easy to carry around, which makes them ideal for on-the-go shooting.
Cost-effective: Using an iPad as a monitor can save you money compared to buying a dedicated external monitor.
Easy set-up: All you need is a few cables and a compatible app, and you can start shooting right away.
Improved playback: An iPad’s high resolution and larger screen size can make it easier to review footage in detail.

With those benefits in mind, let’s take a look at how to use your iPad as an external monitor.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, you’ll need to have the following:

A video camera with an HDMI output
An iPad (any model will work, but newer models will have better resolution)
An HDMI cable
An adapter to connect your camera’s HDMI cable to your iPad’s Lightning or USB-C port (depending on your iPad model)
A compatible app for your iPad

One popular app for using an iPad as a monitor is Duet Display. This app allows you to use your iPad as a second monitor for your computer, but it also has a feature that allows you to use it as an external monitor for your video camera. Other popular apps include Red Giant Universe and Air Display 2.

Connecting Your Camera to Your iPad

Once you have all of the necessary equipment, it’s time to connect your camera to your iPad. Here are the steps:

Related Camera

Connect one end of the HDMI cable to your camera’s HDMI output.
Connect the other end of the HDMI cable to your adapter.
Plug the adapter into your iPad’s Lightning or USB-C port.
Open your chosen app on your iPad (in this case, we’ll use Duet Display).
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your iPad as an external monitor.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you should see the camera’s feed on your iPad screen. From here, you can adjust settings, review footage, and more.

Tips for Using Your iPad as an External Monitor

Now that you know how to connect your camera to your iPad, let’s go over some tips to help you get the most out of your set-up:

Invest in a sturdy mount for your iPad to keep it steady while shooting.
Make sure your camera and iPad are fully charged before starting a shoot.
Check that your app is compatible with both your camera and iPad before purchasing.
Consider using a color calibration tool to ensure accurate color representation on your iPad screen.
Experiment with different apps to find one that works best for your needs.

Conclusion

Using an iPad as an external monitor for your video camera is a great way to expand your shooting options without breaking the bank. With the right equipment and app, you can set up a portable, cost-effective studio anywhere. Whether you’re a professional videographer or a hobbyist, incorporating your iPad into your shooting set-up can help you improve your footage and achieve your creative vision.