Everyday laptop · camera
Laptop camera does not work
Check the privacy shutter, camera hotkey and permissions first. If the camera works in the built-in test but not in a call, the app is usually choosing the wrong device.
Updated 22 August 2026
Quick checklist
- Open the physical camera shutter or disable the camera privacy hotkey.
- Test in Windows Camera or macOS Photo Booth.
- Check Windows Privacy & security > Camera or macOS Privacy & Security > Camera.
- Close other camera apps and select the correct camera in the call settings.
- Install pending operating-system and device updates before changing drivers.
The symptom narrows the cause
If the built-in camera app has no image, check the shutter, permission and device. If it works there but not in Teams, Zoom or a browser, focus on the app's camera selection.
| No app shows an image | Check shutter, hotkey, permission and Device Manager. |
|---|---|
| Built-in test works but calls do not | Select the correct camera and close other camera apps. |
| The image is black with the shutter open | Check permission, antivirus and the camera driver. |
| It began after an update | Restart and install pending system or manufacturer updates. |
What not to do
- Do not install a random driver or remove the device without a recovery path.
- Do not force a physical privacy shutter or cover the camera indicator.
- Do not grant browser camera access to a site you do not recognise.
Quick diagnosis: where does the camera work?
Quick diagnosis: where does the camera work?
Choose the closest situation. Your answer is neither sent nor stored.
When is help worthwhile?
JVS Tuki can help when permissions, drivers and the call app's camera choice conflict, or when the privacy shutter does not match its position.