Camera Tool Guide
Complete guide to the Camera tool in Garry's Mod - create static and tracking cameras for screenshots and surveillance
Camera Tool
The Camera tool creates camera entities that capture a view from where they're placed. Use static cameras for fixed surveillance or tracking cameras that follow entities.
Basic Controls
| Action | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Left-click | Place static camera (fixed position/angle) |
| Right-click | Place tracking camera (follows target) |
Camera Types
Static Camera (Left-click)
Places a camera that points where you're looking:
- Stays in exact position and angle
- Good for fixed surveillance or scene captures
- Camera faces the direction you were looking when placed
Tracking Camera (Right-click)
Creates a camera that follows a target:
- Right-click world: Camera tracks your player movement
- Right-click entity: Camera tracks that specific prop, ragdoll, or NPC
Tool Settings
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Key | Bind a key to toggle viewing through the camera |
| Toggle | Key toggles view on/off vs. hold-to-view |
| Static | Lock camera angle (don't follow player view) |
Viewing Through Cameras
Place a camera (left or right-click)
Open tool menu and set a view key
Press that key to switch to camera view
Press again (or release if not toggle) to return to normal view
Multiple Cameras
Each camera can have its own key binding. Set up a surveillance system:
Place first camera, bind to key "1"
Place second camera, bind to key "2"
Press 1 or 2 to switch between views
Camera SWEP vs Camera Tool
Different Camera Items
GMod has two camera-related items:
- Camera Tool (toolgun) — Creates camera entities (this guide)
- Camera SWEP (weapons tab) — For taking screenshots, includes zoom
Camera SWEP Controls
If using the Camera weapon (not tool):
- Left-click: Take screenshot
- Hold Right-click + move mouse: Zoom in/out
- R key: Reset zoom
RT Cameras
RT (Real-Time) cameras that display on monitors are a separate addon — not part of the default Camera tool. Look for:
- RT Camera addon
- Wiremod Cameras
Tips
Cause: No key bound in settings.
Solution: Open tool menu and set a key to view through camera.
Cause: Default camera doesn't support RT monitors.
Solution: Install an RT Camera addon from Workshop.
Cause: Right-clicked the wrong entity.
Solution: Remove and place new camera, right-clicking the correct target.
Quick Reference
| Task | How |
|---|---|
| Fixed camera | Left-click |
| Tracking camera | Right-click entity |
| View from camera | Press bound key |
| Screenshot | Use Camera SWEP, not tool |