An HDMI socket isn’t always a live picture
A camera’s HDMI socket may only play back clips, show menus over the picture, or limit the live view. Check the camera mode you need and the socket size. Micro-HDMI, mini-HDMI and full-size HDMI need the matching cable; a similar-looking USB port is not an HDMI output.
Look for a clean feed
Remove focus boxes, battery indicators, exposure overlays and menus from the outgoing feed. Check while changing focus and when a face enters the frame. A clean camera screen does not prove the external HDMI feed is clean, and the reverse can also be true.
Test a full-length session
Run the camera at your stream resolution for as long as you stream, powered the way you will on the day. Sleep timers, overheating and output-mode changes can cut the picture. The maker’s list of requirements doesn’t replace a real test.
Power while operating
USB power, battery charging and continuous powered operation are separate facts. Some cameras charge while switched off but do not run from that input while producing HDMI. Use the exact approved power arrangement and check that a door or cable does not block the mount.
USB may save you a capture card
If the maker documents a USB webcam (UVC) mode, the camera can send live video straight to the computer. Check that mode’s resolution, frame rate and computer requirements; don’t assume the HDMI figures apply. Select it in OBS, and turn off the camera’s built-in microphone there if you don’t want it.
For the complete connection plan, use the streaming setup builder. You can keep older equipment in your plan.