System requirements

Use this page as a quick hardware checklist before you install or run Virtual.ink.

Computer requirements

Minimum setup

Single camera

• Intel Core i5 or equivalent for 720p
• Intel Core i7 or equivalent for 1080p
• Intel Iris or any modern integrated GPU

Dual camera

• Intel Core i7 or equivalent
• Intel Iris or modern integrated GPU for standard use; dedicated GPU (NVIDIA or AMD) recommended for heavy effects

All configurations

• 8 GB RAM
• 700 MB available storage
• Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
• Internet connection for license login
• One dedicated USB 3 port per capture device

Camera and capture options

Virtual Ink works with any camera that outputs a clean HDMI signal and any standard HDMI capture card. In most cases, HDMI capture gives you the most flexibility and the best image quality.

If you already have a camera and capture card, there is a good chance they will work. We recommend requesting a free trial before purchasing so you can confirm compatibility with your specific hardware.

Single camera setup

• Any camera with clean HDMI output
• Any compatible HDMI capture card (https://amzn.to/4lIWSao or https://amzn.to/4shY7zx)

Dual camera setup

• Two cameras with clean HDMI output
• Two compatible HDMI capture cards

Some cameras also work over USB directly, including most webcams, though image quality and control options may be more limited than through HDMI.Option 2: Camera through USB

Useful when you want a simpler setup and accept the limits of direct USB capture.

• Canon: Windows only, up to 1024 px wide over USB. This is the simplest setup path. Compatible models include most Canon DSLRs, some newer mirrorless models such as M50, R, RP, M6ii, M200, and some PowerShot models such as G7xiii and G5xii. Only one camera can run over direct USB, but you can combine it with a second camera connected through HDMI capture.
• Sony: works with cameras that include a built-in webcam mode, usually up to 1280 px wide
• GoPro: direct USB can reach 1920 x 1080 on models such as the GoPro 10, 11, 12 and 13

Option 3: Webcam

• Logitech Brio, or any webcam that lets you control settings manually

Recommended accessories

Remote control

The included remote is fine for testing and short-distance use, roughly within 2 meters of the computer. For performances, outdoor setups, or photobooths, these options are more practical:

• Kokuyo Ela-fp1 finger presenter: https://amzn.to/2ppBlrD
• 8BitDo SN30 wireless controller: https://amzn.to/2EMxiQN

Cables, tripods, and brackets

• Camera bracket for two-camera setups: https://amzn.to/2DMoiHK
• L-shaped HDMI cable for tighter and more stable camera placement: https://amzn.to/2GLQihP
• Lightweight tripod option, Benro Slim Carbon Fiber: https://amzn.to/2TYoUkA

External recorder

If you plan to record longer videos, especially anything over a minute, it is safer to keep your computer focused on the light-painting process and record externally. You can use either:

• a second computer with another HDMI-to-USB capture card
• an external recorder such as the Hauppauge HD PVR Rocket Portable Stand Alone HD

HDMI cables

Angled HDMI cables can save space and let you mount two cameras closer together. Just make sure you choose the correct orientation for your camera body.

• Left angle, for example EOS R: https://amzn.to/2LAZyI3
• Right angle, for example SL2 / 200D: https://amzn.to/2XpKioD

Light-painting tools

• Light-painting tubes and kits: https://lightpainting.store
• Liteblades, squares, and whips: https://lightpainting.store