Are you looking for a PTZ camera for live streaming church services? When people talk about cameras, still and traditional video cameras come to mind. However, as a measure to beef up security in homes and public spaces, a special type of camera called PTZ camera has become available.
In the coming paragraphs, we will look at what a PTZ camera is, its benefits, how to set it up, and the different camera specs in a PTZ camera.
What is a PTZ camera?
A PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera is a special camera set up in a motorized case with different moving mechanical parts. These parts allow them to move in almost every direction – up and down, left and right and zoom in and out. This action makes them a good choice to cover a large area of view over more conventional fixed cameras.
Newer PTZ cameras have an all-in-one package that gives them super high resolution. The motors on this camera allow time to tilt 180 degrees, giving them a near 360 degrees view of an area. This feature is used to capture important details like license plates and faces. What’s really cool about this camera is that it can be manually operated either by someone, preprogrammed, or controlled by automated software that senses motions.
Obviously, the main use for this camera is security which is why you will find it most times in surveillance and CCTV use. However, today you would see it in different industries such as churches, construction sites, warehouses, apartment buildings, schools, sporting centers, etc. Its use has entered areas such as live streaming, e-learning, and even film productions.
Benefits of a PTZ camera
Here are some benefits of the use of this camera
● Reduced staffing
A feature of PTZ cameras is that multiple cameras can be controlled using a single switcher. Thus, only one camera operator can manage several PTZs, controlling them simultaneously with minimal issues.
● Object tracking
Some PTZ cameras are capable of adjusting their field of view to follow objects that are moving. This benefits it’s very helpful in calm areas that have low movement.
● Auto scan
PTZ can be automatically configured to scan certain areas at certain times. A particular movement pattern can also be very set. For instance, you can set a PTZ camera to change directions every 30 seconds, so the entire surveillance area is covered.
● Access
PTZ cameras can be used to video and capture areas and locations that would be dangerous or difficult for a human camera operator to reach.
● Impressive zoom reach
Several PTZ cameras have lenses that can zoom up to 40x. This feature gives you the chance to see objects that are very far away. Thus, making surveillance much easier.
● Remote control
You can control some PTZ cameras from anywhere you are in the world. Using your tablet, phone, or laptop, you can change the field of view and track any suspicious activity.
● Monitors large area
Certain PTZ cameras can tilt up to 360 degrees, allowing them to cover a large field of view. Some models even allow you to tilt and pan digitally. So, after recording a video, you can adjust it. However, the video would have a lower resolution.
Setting up a PTZ camera
You can mount your PTZ camera on the wall, flush, surface, or ceiling. There are three main things you ought to consider when you are setting up a PTZ camera.
- Power
- Video
- Communication
Your PTZ camera usually needs more power than more conventional surveillance cameras. This need is caused by the multiple motors built into it. You either have a power source at the camera location or pull it from elsewhere. Where the power source is located determines the length of the cable, which is also controlled by the gauge of the wire. For instance, a 12 gauge wire has a maximum distance of 320 feet, a 14 gauge wire has a maximum distance of 225 feet, a 16 gauge wire has a maximum distance of 150 feet, and an 18 gauge wire has a maximum distance of 100 feet.
Ensure that the power supply type you use matches the camera because PTZ cameras are able to operate both DC and AC.
To transmit video back to the DVR, you would need a cable. You can use either an RG6 or RG69 video coax cable or a CAT5 network cable.
A lot of installers use a CAT5 network cable to operate PTZs. This cable will run from the PTZ joystick to the camera or the DVR to the camera. If you have multiple cameras, you can then connect the data cable from the first camera to the second one, from the second one to the third one, and so on. This way, one DVR or joystick would communicate to the several cameras. This method is called “Daisy Configuration.”
You can also use the “Star Configuration”. Here, you run a cable from the joystick or DVR to every camera.
After setting up the camera to a network. Follow these steps to set up a wireless connection:
- Set your camera to DHCP or static IP address.
- Verify your PTZ camera’s IP address using an IR remote shortcut.
- Verify your PTZ camera is connected to your computer by using a web browser to connect to the camera.
- Use an app such as PTZOptics to connect to your camera.
Panasonic AW-UE150 4K UHD PTZ
The Panasonic AW-UE150 4K UHD PTZ brings ultra 4K quality to your video productions. The camera features an HDT mode and BT 2020 color gamut support. It has optical image stabilization and a high-speed 180-degree tilt. With the Panasonic AW-UE150 4K, you can create a multicam look with its cropping function.
If you want to capture videos at night, no worries; the night mode and low-light settings are there for you. Finally, this device is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones as well as tablets, Macs, and PCs.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1-Chip 1″ MOS Sensor
- Weight: 14. 8 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 19 x 15.25 x 14.75 inches
- Optical Zoom Ratio: 20x
- Horizontal Resolution (TV Lines): 1600 TV Lines
- Sensitivity: f/9 at 2000 lux
- Shutter Speed: 1/24 to 1/10,000 sec
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8 to 4.5
- Minimum Focus Distance:Wide: 3.9″ / 9.9 cm
- Embedded Audio: HDMI
- SDI
- Telephoto: 39.6″ / 100.6 cm
- Max Digital Zoom: 32x ( in 1080p)
- Sound Level: NC35
Canon CR-N500 Professional 4K
If you are working on a big production, you can benefit from remote-controlled PTZ cameras like Canon CR-N300 4K. This camera features a 1″ dual-pixel CMOS sensor, face tracking, and up to 20x zoom. The video resolution has ultra-high HD and includes dual XLR / 3.5mm microphone input.
The Canon CR-N300 4K has NDI | HX support and doesn’t require a separate license. It also has genlock and Canon Log 3 support and can perform zoom, tilt, and pan movement at 0.2 to 300 degrees per second.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1-Chip 1″ CMOS Sensor
- Dimensions: 10.59 x 8.19 x 7.87″ / 26.9 x 20.8 x 19.99 cm
- Weight: 9 lb / 4.1 kg
- Shutter Speed: 1/3 to 1/2000 sec
- Sensor Resolution: 13.4 Megapixel
- Effective: 8.29 Megapixel (3840 x 2160)
- Max Digital Zoom: 20x
- Focal Length: 8.3 to 124.5mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 25.5 to 382.5mm)
- Max Digital Zoom: 20x
- Field of View: Horizontal: 5.7 to 73°
- Vertical: 3.2 to 45.2°
- Broadcast System Compatibility: NTSC, PAL
- PoE Support: PoE+ 802.3at
Vaddio RoboSHOT 20 UHD
The Vaddio RoboSHOT 20 UHD is perfect for distance learning and church programs. This PTZ camera features a digital zoom of 1.67x and an optical zoom of 12x. Also, it simultaneously outputs HDBaseT, HDMI, IP streaming, and 3G-SDI. All the outputs are always active, so there’s no need to choose one over another.
One cool thing about this PTZ camera is that you can control it through an IR remote commander. Additionally, this camera has a web-based interface you can control via browser.
Camera Specs:
- Sensor : 1/2.3″-type Exmor R CMOS
- Pixels: Total: 9.03 MP, Effective: 8.93
- Optical Zoom: 12x
- Horizontal Field-of-View: Wide: 74 degrees, Tele: 4.8 degree
- Digital Zoom l: 1.67x
- Pan: Angle: -160 to 160°, Speed: 0.35°/sec to 120°/sec
- Power: 12 VDC, 3A power supply
- LTPoE
- Tilt: Angle: +90 to -30°, Speed: 0.35°/sec to 120°/sec
- Combined Zoom: 20x
- Dimensions 7.9 x 8.0 x 7.7″ / 20.0 x 20.3 x 19.6 cm
- Weight 6.0 lb / 2.7 kg
BirdDog Eyes P120 1080p Full NDI PTZ
The BirdDog Eyes P120 1080p is perfect for larger spaces like big church auditoriums. It supports high resolution of up to 1080p69 with an optical zoom of up to 20x. One thing that stands out about this camera is that it can catch fast-paced action.
This camera has one of the world’s most extensive interfaces. The system combines current bandwidth usage, network traffic, and active connections intuitively and seamlessly.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1-Chip 1/2.86” CMOS Sensor
- Shutter Speed: 1/1 to 1/10,000 sec
- Optical Zoom Ratio: 20x
- Focal Length: 5.2 to 104mm
- Max Digital Zoom: 16x
- Focus Control: Autofocus, Manual Focus
- Move Speed: Pan: 0.5 to 100°/sec, Tilt: 0.5 to 72°/sec
- PoE Support: PoE+ 802.3at
- Operating Temperature: 14 to 122°F / -10 to 50°C
- Dimensions: 6.7 x 6 x 5.7″ / 17.1 x 15.2 x 14.5 cm
- Weight: 2.2 lb / 1 kg
- Operating Humidity: 80%
Honey Optics 20X
The Honey Optics 20x is one of the best PTZ cameras on the market. With it, you can output up to 2160p60 signals through HDMI, NDI HC2, IP outputs, or SDI (1080p). Additionally, the new NDI protocol features low-latency access for video and audio devices in the network.
With a shutter speed of 1/30s to 1/10000s, this camera makes surveillance and video productions sleek.
Camera Specs:
- Sensor: 1/1.8″ CMOS, 8.42 Mega Pixels
- Lens: F6.25mm to 125mm, f/1.58 to f/3.95
- Lens Zoom: 20x (Optical Zoom)
- Resolution: 3840×2160
- Field of View: 60.7 degree
- Presets: 10 IR Presets (255 via Serial or IP
- Min Lux: 0.5 Lux at F1.8, AGC ON
- Horizontal Angle of View: 3.5 degree (tele) to 60.7 degree (wide)
- SNR: >=55dB
- Tilt Rotation: Up: 90 degree Down: 30 degree
- Digital Noise Reduction: 2D & 3D Noise Reduction
- Vertical Angle of View: 2.0 degree (tele) to 34.1 degree (wide)
AViPAS AV-1281G 10x
The AViPAS AV-1281G is a choice PTZ camera for houses of worship, education, and conferencing. It sports 10x optical zoom with a full HD 1080p video resolution. It comes in a compact and elegant design and is super quiet with its sleek tilt/pan mechanism.
With manual and autofocus and 2D/3D noise reduction, this camera will give you value for every penny you spend.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1-Chip 1/2.8″ CMOS Sensor
- Optical Zoom Ratio: 10x
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 55 dB
- Minimal Illumination: 0.5 Lux @ (F1.8, AGC ON)
- Digital Zoom: 5x
- View Angle: 6.43°(tele)–60.9
- Digital Noise Reduction: 2D&3D Digital Noise Reduction
- Frame Rate: 50Hz: 1fps ~ 25ps, 60Hz: 1fps ~ 30fps
- Pan Rotation Range: ±135
- Pan Speed Range: 0.1° ~ 60°/s
- Tilt Rotation Range: ±30°
- Input Voltage: DC 12V
- Current Consumption: 1.0A (Max)
- Dimensions: 6”x6”x5″ (151.2mmX152.5mmX126.7mml)
- Net Weight: 3lb (1.4kg)
Canon CR-N300 4K NDI PTZ Camera
If you need a remote-controlled camera for professional video production, look no further than the Canon CR-N300 4K NDI PTZ camera. It would be perfect for your house of worship, broadcast streaming productions, conference room, and event space.
With a built-in NDI|HX support and 3.5mm audio input, this camera is one of the best production cameras for live streaming!
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1-Chip 1/2.3″ CMOS Sensor
- Max Digital Zoom: 20x
- Minimum Illumination: 1.5 Lux
- Optical Zoom Ratio: 20x
- Embedded Audio: HDMI/SDI/USB Type-C
- Movement Range:Pan: 340° (-170 to 170°), Tilt: 130° (-30 to 100°)
- White Balance: 2000 to 15,000K
- Move Speed: Pan: 2 to 300°/sec, Tilt: 0.2 to 170°/sec
- Control Interface: 1 x RJ45 (RS-422, VISCA) Input
- Power Consumption: PoE: to 16.2 W
- Power Supply: 24 VDC to 15 W
- Weight: 4.9 lb / 2.2 kg
- Dimensions: 7.01 x 6.46 x 6.06″ / 17.81 x 16.41 x 15.39 cm (Excluding Protrusions)
PTZOptics 30X-NDI Broadcast and Conference Camera
The PTZOptics 30X-NDI Broadcast and Conference Camera give you a 1080p signal output simultaneously through NDI, HDMI and SDI outputs. With this camera, you get up to 30x optical zoom!
This camera comes with a new NDI protocol which features low-latency access for video and audio devices in your network. The open-source design is just another highlight of this camera. It’s also great for large churches with its impressive 2D and 3D noise reduction, 30x optical zoom, and up to 1080p60 resolution.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1-Chip 1/2.7″ CMOS Sensor
- Optical Zoom Ratio:30x
- Presets: 255 via IP, RS-232 10 via IR
- Focal Length: 4.4 to 132.6mm
- Movement Range: Pan: -170 to 170°, Tilt: -30 to 90°
- Field of View: Horizontal: 2.28 to 60.7°, Vertical: 1.28 to 34.1°
- Shutter Speed: 1/30 to 1/10,000 sec
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio 55 dB
- Audio I/O: 1 x 1/8″ / 3.5 mm Stereo Line Level Input
- PoE Support: PoE 802.3af
- QWeight: 3 lb / 1.4 kg
- Dimensions: 6.7 x 6.3 x 5.5″ / 17 x 16 x 14 cm
PTZOptics SDI G2
The PTZOptics SDI G2 was created for professional video productions and not just surveillance. It is perfect for streaming and can be used with some PTZ camera applications. This camera is capable of recording up to 1080p60/50 and streaming in MJPEG and H.265.
Its 4.4 to 88.5 mm lens and 20x zoom capabilities allow it to be used for group and one-on-one meetings. Additionally, there’s noise cancellation in 2D and 3D that makes conferencing and live streaming even better.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1-Chip 1/2.7″ CMOS Sensor
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 55 dB
- Shutter Speed: 1/30 to 1/10,000 sec
- Optical Zoom Ratio: 20x
- Field of View: Horizontal: 3.36 to 60.7°, Vertical: 1.89 to 34.1°
- Focal Length: 4.4 to 88.5mm
- Max Digital Zoom:16x
- Sensitivity: f/0.5 at 1.8 lux
- Audio I/O: 1 x 1/8″ / 3.5 mm Stereo Line Level Input
- Movement Range: Pan: -170 to 170°, Tilt: -30 to 90°
- PoE Support: Yes
- Power Connectors: 1 x JEITA (10.8 to 13 VDC)
- Storage Temperature: -4 to 140°F / -20 to 60°C
- Weight: 3 lb / 1.4 kg
- Dimensions: 6.6 x 5.9 x 5.6″ / 16.8 x 15 x 14.2 cm
FoMaKo PTZ Camera HDMI 30x Optical Zoom
The FoMaKo PTZ Camera HDMI 30x Optical Zoom is perfect for live streaming in churches, schools, and events. It supports PoE, IP streaming, and HDMI & 3G-SDI output. You can also use it to do multi-cam video productions for YouTube and Facebook live streams.
The H.265/H.264 encoding makes the video produced from the camera clearer and more fluent, especially under conditions of low bandwidth. It’s also one of the most affordable PTZ cameras out there.
Camera Specs:
- Photo Sensor Technology: CMOS
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Lens Type: Zoom
- Optical Zoom: 30×
- Video Capture Format: MP
- Screen Size: 2.7 Inches (6.9 cm
- Weight: 6.34 pounds (2.85 kg)
- Dimensions: 5.63 x 6.93 x 6.65 inches (14.3 x 17.6 x 16.9 cm)
- Full HD Resolution: 1/2.8 inch high quality
- Digital Noise Reduction: 2D&3D Digital Noise Reduction
- Control Interface: RS422, RS485, RS232 (cascade connection)
- PoE Support: Yes
AVKANS NDI Camera, 20X
The AVKANS NDI Camera 20x stands out for its performance. It’s a high-end PTZ camera that’s still relatively affordable. It’s easy to set up and comes with a comprehensive manual. This PTZ camera has similar auto-focus technology with the Pro-AV camera.
The NDI feature allows the camera to send high-resolution videos with low latency. This camera is widely used in churches and big event centers.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1/2.7 inch High-Quality Panasonic’s CMOS sensor, Effective Pixel: 2.07M
- Shutter: 1/30s ~ 1/10000s
- Optical Lens: 20x, f4.42mm ~ 88.5mm, F1.8 ~ F2.8 (30X, f4.42mm ~ 132.6mm, F1.8 ~ F2.8
- Digital Noise Reduction: 2D&3D Digital Noise Reduction
- Video Compression: H.265 / H.264 / MJPEG
- Video Output: 3G-SDI, HDMI, IP, NDI HX
- Support protocols: TCP/IP, HTTP/CGI, RTSP, RTMPs, Onvif, DHCP, SRT, Multicast, etc.
- Audio Compression: AAC
- Weight: 3.00 lbs [1.36 kg]
- Dimensions: 5.6” W x 6.7” D x 6.5” H (7.8” H w/ max tilt)
SMTAV 30x Optical
This PTZ camera has a high-quality super-telephoto lens with an 8x digital zoom and 30x optical zoom feature. The H-265 support enables it to stream HD video at a very low bandwidth. This camera also has 2D and 3D noise reduction that works even in low light conditions.
The system of SMTAV 30x Optical is an intuitive one that supports a 3G-SDI interface and HDMI output.
Camera Specs:
- Sensor: 1/2.7″, CMOS, Effective Pixel: 2.07M
- Digital Zoom: 8x
- Optical Zoom: 30×
- Minimal Illumination: 0.05 Lux (@F1.8, AGC ON)
- Video System: 1080p-60/50/30/25/59.94*/29.97*, 1080i-60/50/59.94*, 720p-60/50/59.94* CVBS: 576i, 480i
- Digital Noise Reduction: 2D & 3D Digital Noise Reduction
- Horizontal Angle of View: 2.28° ~ 60.7°
- Horizontal Rotation Range: ±170
- Vertical Angle of View: 1.28° ~ 34.1°
- Vertical Rotation Range: -30° ~ +90
- Video S/N: ≥ 55dB
- Number of Preset: 255
- Weight: 5.79 lb
- Dimensions: 11.5″ x 10″ x 9.5″
AIDA Imaging Full HD NDI
The AIDA Imaging HD-NDI-200 is a great camera for wide shots. It works for live productions, broadcasts, and education. This camera is miniature, but don’t be fooled because it is has cool spec. It outputs up to 1080p69 over HDMI and NDI.
There is also a 3.5mm audio port that embeds audio into IP/NDI signals.
Camera Specs:
- Image Sensor: 1/2.8″ Progressive CMOS
- Pixel Size: 2.9 x 2.9 μm (V)
- Effective Pixels: 1920 x 1080
- Video Bitrate: 1024 to 20,480 kb/s
- Other Ports: Micro-USB (Firmware), 4-Pin IRIS Port
- Color Space: 4:2:2 (YCbCr) 10-Bit
- Audio Sample Rate: 16/24/32 Bits
- Lens Mount: C/CS Mount
- Operating Temperature: 32 to 104°F / 0 to 40°C
- Power: 12 VDC (9 to 15 V) / POE+ (IEEE802.3at)
- Weight: 2.035
- Dimensions: 2.1 x 5 x 2.1″ / 5.4 x 12.7 x 5.4 cm
Logitech PTZ Pro 2 Camera
The Logitech PTZ Pro 2 camera makes video calls and conferencing seem like everyone is in the same room together. This camera delivers HD videos and enhanced color reproduction. This feature makes it suitable for situations where high video definition is needed, such as healthcare settings, classrooms, churches, and auditoriums.
Additionally, this PTZ camera comes with autofocus, so objects or areas it’s pointed at are enhanced.
Camera Specs:
- Optical Zoom Ratio: 10x
- Broadcast System Compatibility: NTSC
- Standing screen display size: 2 Inches
- Movement Range: Pan: 260°, Tilt: 130°
- Video Output Connectors: 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A (USB Video) Female
- Wireless Range: 28′ / 8.5 m (IR)
- Tripod Mounting Thread: 1 x 1/4″-20 Female
- Output Formats: USB: 1920 x 1080p at 30 fps
- Field of View: 90°
- Weight: 1.3 lb / 580 g (Camera), 1.7 oz / 48 g (Remote)
- Dimensions: 5.8 x 5.2 x 5.1″ / 146 x 131 x 130 mm (Camera), 4.7 x 2 x 0.4″ / 120 x 50 x 10 mm (Remote)
TONGVEO 20X
The TONGVEO 20x PTZ camera is perfect for online video conferencing. It’s great for live streaming, such as live church streaming and multi-person chats. This camera offers an ultra-clear HD 1080p image and a 55.5 FOV wide-angle. You can’t go wrong when you use this PTZ camera in your church. It can match the brightness on the preacher and move easily between presets.
It’s also easy to set up and can be controlled remotely with a 90-degree tilt and 350-degree pan. Additionally, it’s compatible with Laptops, PC, Macs, and several conferencing apps. What’s even better is that it’s among the most affordable PTZ cameras you’ll get on the market.
Camera Specs:
- Sensor: 1/2.7 inch HD color CMOS
- Optical Zoom: 20x
- Screen Size: 2.8 Inches
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080
- Lens Type: Zoom
- Horizontal Resolution: 1080P 60/50/30/25,1080i 60/50,720P 60/50
- Horizontal Resolution: 1080P 60/50/30/25,1080i 60/50,720P 60/50
- Effective pixel: 2.38 megapixel (16:9)
- Horizontal angle: Near-end 60.2°–Far-end 3.7°
- Pan/Tilt Movement Range: Pan: +-175°(max speed 80°/S), Tilt: -35°~+55°(max speed 60°/S)
- Weight: 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg
- Dimensions: 17″x7.17″x7.17″ (L x W x H)
What is the best PTZ Camera for live streaming church services?
There are several top choices for live streaming in churches, such as FoMaKo PTZ Camera HDMI 30x Optical Zoom and Honey Optics 20X, but our top pick is the PTZOptics SDI G2.
The PTZOptics is great in low light situations. It offers high-definition videos at 60 frames per second and supports IP streaming. It also has 3D and 2D noise reductions to enhance quality Images.
The most affordable choice of all the picks here is the TONGVEO 20X. However, don’t be deceived because of the price which starts around 450 USD. It packs a punch! With features such as 20x optical zoom, a remote control, HD video resolution for videos, and compatibility with most live streaming and video conferencing services, the TONGVEO deserves our affordable and good-quality pick.
Finally, our best overall pick is the Panasonic AW-UE150 4K! This camera is the perfect PTZ camera to make your church services one to remember. The videos come in 4K, and it works well with most PCs and has the widest lens you’ll ever see.
