name: webcam-capture
description: Capture photos and short videos from a connected webcam. Use when: (1) user wants to share a screenshot or image via camera, (2) user asks to take a photo or capture from webcam, (3) analyzing something physical held up to the camera, (4) documenting a whiteboard or workspace, (5) capturing any visual from the webcam. Also use when a skill needs a visual input captured before processing. Triggers on: "take a photo", "capture from camera", "use the webcam", "snap a picture", "record video", "webcam capture".
Webcam Capture
Capture still images or short video clips from a connected webcam using ffmpeg.
Quick Use
python3 skills/webcam-capture/scripts/capture.py
python3 skills/webcam-capture/scripts/capture.py --timestamp
python3 skills/webcam-capture/scripts/capture.py -o /path/to/output.jpg
python3 skills/webcam-capture/scripts/capture.py -d /dev/video1
python3 skills/webcam-capture/scripts/capture.py --list-devices
python3 skills/webcam-capture/scripts/capture.py --stream --duration 10
After Capture — Analyze Image
After capturing, use the image tool to analyze:
Tool: image
image: /home/mikesai1/.openclaw/workspace/captures/capture_20260323_143052.jpg
prompt: [describe what you see / analyze the content]
Captures save to: ~/.openclaw/workspace/captures/
Device Selection
Most systems have /dev/video0. If multiple cameras exist:
/dev/video0 — typically built-in webcam/dev/video1 — typically USB/second camera
Use --list-devices to confirm before capturing.
Requirements
ffmpeg must be installed- Video device must be accessible (check
/dev/video* permissions if needed)
Notes
- The camera light will briefly blink when capturing — no silent surveillance possible
- Images are JPEG, ~150KB per frame
- Videos are H.264 MP4, ~1MB per second
- Webcam must be physically connected and powered on
