Title says it, is this a mod thing? Do I need to install a mod to do this or is there some other way?

Viewing the character from another camera angle, from the side or above, "TFC" DOESNT DO IT! sadly.

I accomplish this by simply holding down the scroll wheel button on my mouse. Keep running, but with the "button 3" on the scroll wheel held down, you enter "vanity mode" and the mouse switches to moving the camera rather than your character. Give it a try - see if this is what you're looking for.

Yes, thats perfect. Thanks.