ImageCapture

ImageCapture is a web API that provides a programmatic interface for capturing still images and image frames from a user's camera. It is designed to complement the broader media devices API (getUserMedia) by offering higher-level control over capture parameters and direct access to image data beyond continuous video streams.

Usage typically begins with obtaining a MediaStreamTrack from navigator.mediaDevices.getUserMedia, then constructing an ImageCapture object with that track. The API exposes methods and properties such as takePhoto(), grabFrame(), getPhotoCapabilities(), and getPhotoSettings(). takePhoto() returns a Blob containing a still image, while grabFrame() yields an ImageBitmap for immediate rendering or processing. getPhotoCapabilities() reports supported image dimensions, formats, and adjustable features (for example zoom or focus where supported), and getPhotoSettings() reflects the current capture options. Where supported, setOptions() can be used to configure capture parameters for subsequent operations.

The API enables use cases that require direct image data or finer control over capture quality, such as custom photography UIs, offline processing, or application-specific camera workflows. It is designed to work with compliant cameras and may provide richer control than basic video playback alone. However, capabilities are implementation-dependent and not all devices expose every feature.

Security and privacy considerations apply: access to camera hardware requires user permission and the API operates in secure contexts (HTTPS). Permissions and feature availability can vary by browser and platform, so developers should consult current compatibility information and degrade gracefully for environments that do not support ImageCapture.

See also: getUserMedia, MediaDevices, WebRTC.