Is DirectShow necessary?

I am working on a project which I must record from a camera, webcam, or some other video input device. I do not know which because the application goes out to users.

I am wondering if there is a simpler way to capture and preview the video without having to jump through the DirectShow hoops?

In my case .Net interop hoops exist as well. Also, windows XP and up are supported.

Thanks,
JDKunk

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/libr...92(VS.85).aspx