Need to know how to fix Windows 10 camera problems on your laptop, desktop or tablet? They seem like a minor issue, but sudden camera problems can be very frustrating when you’re just trying to do something, so read on to learn how to fix these common problems.
Almost every Windows 10 PC has a camera today. Laptops and desktops have a front-facing camera so you can video chat with friends and family. Tablets and convertibles often have a second camera so you can take a picture of the world around you. When all is well, both camera types work flawlessly with the Windows 10 Camera app and other apps that need camera access.
Windows 10 Camera problems can reduce your productivity or miss a key moment. Windows 10 laptop owners may try to connect to a conference call only to realize that their device’s camera is not working. The same thing can happen with the Surface Pro 4 and other tablets when someone tries to use its rear-facing camera. Some users get an error message every time they open the Camera app to take photos and videos.
Here’s how to get your device’s camera working properly and fix Windows 10 camera problems.
Adjusting Camera App Permissions to Fix Windows 10 Camera Issues
You must allow an app to access any camera or sensor on your PC. Most of the time, this process is painless because apps that require camera access will prompt you when you open them. Still, it’s very easy to miss the popup for request. And without proper permission apps just show a black screen.
Press the key on your keyboard or click the Start button in the lower left corner of your screen.
Tap or click on the left edge of the OSD or Start Screen to open it. You can also access the Settings app from the Action Center. Just swipe left from right side of your device’s touch screen. Then tap the shortcut below the Action Center.
Tap or click the icon inside the Settings app. It is in the third row and has a padlock icon.
Tap or click in the menu on the left side of your screen.
There is a switch in the camera area. If it is set to off, tap or click on it to turn it on.
Any app you try to use with your device’s camera also needs explicit permission. Use the app list below this area to make sure your most used apps like Instagram and Facebook have the camera access they need.
Switching and Closing Apps to Fix Windows 10 Camera Issues
Usually, Windows 10 camera problems are caused by multiple apps open that users need to access the camera at the same time. For example, if you’re opening an app that requires a Windows Hello sign-in, the Camera app won’t be able to access it from that app to let you take a photo.
When this happens to you, close any open app that might have access to the camera. Then go back to the app you were trying to use. Close that app and reopen it. If that doesn’t fix the camera not working, restart your Windows 10 PC from the Start Menu.
Change Your Camera Settings to Fix Windows 10 Camera Issues
Sometimes an app can access your device’s cameras, but it won’t reset the camera’s settings so you have a bright and clear photo. If this happens to you, go to the Start Menu and open the app from the alphabetical list on the left side of your screen.
Click the controls of the camera app. Now, use the controls to change the brightness and contrast. Close the camera app and open the app you’re trying to use the camera with.
These fixes will help you fix any Windows 10 camera issues you have. Must Be Mobile will continue to add new issues and fixes to this malfunction as new issues arise.
