a camera converter is disclosed . the camera converter includes a number electronic components that operate to selectively generate digital still images responsive to user controls using video signals received from a removably attached video conferencing camera , which includes a lens and a first communication interface . the camera further includes a housing that operates to enclose the electronic components , and to removably accept the video conferencing camera . the housing in particular includes a view finder that is optically coordinated with the lens of the video conferencing camera , a second communication interface that mates with the first communication interface of the video conferencing camera , and user input mechanisms for providing said user controls .