How to Record Isolated Camera in OBS Studio

This guide explains how to use the “Source Record” plugin in OBS Studio to capture a clean, isolated recording (ISO) of your webcam or camera feed while simultaneously streaming your main broadcast. You will learn how to install the plugin, apply it as a filter to your video capture source, and configure the recording settings to run automatically when you start your stream.

Step 1: Install the Source Record Plugin

Before starting, you must download and install the Source Record plugin by Exeldro from the official OBS Project website. 1. Close OBS Studio. 2. Download the installer compatible with your operating system. 3. Run the installer and follow the prompts to complete the installation. 4. Restart OBS Studio to load the plugin.

Step 2: Apply the Filter to Your Camera Source

The plugin functions as an effect filter applied directly to an individual source rather than the entire scene canvas. 1. In the Sources dock of OBS Studio, locate your camera source (usually named “Video Capture Device”). 2. Right-click the camera source and select Filters. 3. In the Effect Filters section (the bottom list), click the + (plus) icon. 4. Select Source Record from the list and name the filter.

Step 3: Configure the Source Record Settings

Once the filter is added, you will see a settings panel. Configure the following key options:

Record Mode: Choose when the recording should trigger. Select Streaming to automatically record the isolated feed whenever you go live, or Recording to trigger it when you start your main OBS recording.
Path: Click Browse to choose the folder on your computer where the isolated video file will be saved.
Format: Choose your preferred video container. mkv or fragmented mp4 is recommended to prevent file corruption if OBS or your PC crashes.
Encoder: Select your hardware encoder (such as NVIDIA NVENC or AMD AMF) to reduce CPU usage.
Resolution and Bitrate: Set these to your preferred quality. For a high-quality clean feed suitable for post-production editing, set the bitrate to at least 10,000 to 15,000 Kbps for 1080p video.

Step 4: Run and Test the Recording

Click Close on the Filters window to save your settings.
Click Start Streaming or Start Recording in OBS (depending on your chosen trigger in Step 3).
Navigate to your designated save folder to ensure a new video file has been created.
Verify that the recorded file contains only your clean camera feed, completely free of stream overlays, alerts, or other scene elements.