Abstract: The system for camera control in robotic and laparoscopic surgery (100) includes a head tracking system (130) for tracking movements of an operator's head during laparoscopic surgery, a robotic laparoscope holder (110) operatively engaged to a laparoscope (200), an interface workstation (120) having a processor (540) and inputs connecting the sensor signal and the servo control system (515) signals to the processor (540), and a clutch switch (180) connected to the processor (540) for activating and inactivating the interface workstation (120). The head tracking system (130) includes at least one optical marker (415) to be worn on the operator's head and an optical tracker (410) for detecting movement of the at least one optical marker (415) and transmitting a corresponding sensor signal. The laparoscope includes an articulating distal portion (214), a tip (216), and a camera (150) disposed at the tip (150).