Getting Started
OBS Source Dictionary
Sources are the individual elements (video, audio, images) that make up each of your scenes. Here’s a clear breakdown of what each one does.
Visuals & Graphics
Image: Used to display logos, static banners, or backgrounds (
.jpg,.png).Media Source: The key option for animated overlays, video alerts, or background music (
.mp4,.webm,.mov).Image Slide Show: Creates a carousel that automatically cycles through multiple images.
Text (GDI+ / FreeType 2): Allows you to display custom text directly on screen (names, social handles, announcements).
Screen & Game Capture
Game Capture: The most efficient way to stream gameplay. Automatically detects games running in fullscreen mode.
Window Capture: Ideal for displaying a specific application (e.g., Photoshop, Spotify) without showing your entire desktop.
Display Capture: Captures everything visible on your monitor. Be careful with sensitive or private information.
Input Devices
Video Capture Device: Used to add your webcam or a capture card (for consoles like PS5 or Switch).
Audio Input Capture: Adds your primary microphone.
Audio Output Capture: Captures the sound coming from your system (game audio, alerts, music).
Advanced Utilities
Browser Source: FEssential for Streamlabs/StreamElements alerts, on-screen chat, and dynamic widgets.
Scene: Allows you to nest one scene inside another. Useful for maintaining a clean and modular setup.
Color Source: Creates a solid color block, useful for simple backgrounds or visual accents.
Group: Not a source itself, but a way to organize multiple sources together, allowing you to move or toggle them as a single unit.
Layer Order
Think of OBS as a stack of layers:
Sources at the top of the list appear in front.
If your camera is not visible, make sure it isn’t placed underneath a background image or your game capture source.
Any other questions? Get in touch