Camera Preview Failed to Load

[Anastasia1776]

My HP built-in webcam is all black, and it continually either stays all black or gives the message "Camera Preview Failed to Load." I have tried resetting the laptop twice, uninstalling and reinstalling the camera drivers, making sure the camera kill switch is off, using the camera troubleshooter, turning off virus software to make sure that is not the issue, and still the problem persists. Any ideas on what to do to solve this issue? 

[Max3Aj]

@Anastasia1776, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
I understand you're experiencing an issue where your built-in webcam shows a black screen or the error "Camera Preview Failed to Load" on your HP Envy 17 (17-cw0000 series). You've already tried several solid troubleshooting steps—great job so far!

Let’s go through a few more targeted steps to help resolve this issue:

Test the Camera in HP Diagnostics

• Use HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to test the webcam:
  • Download from: HP PC Hardware Diagnostics | HP® Support
  • Run the Component Tests > Webcam Test to check hardware functionality.

Update or Reinstall the Camera Driver

• Open Device Manager → Expand Cameras or Imaging Devices.
• Right-click your webcam → Select Uninstall device.
• Restart your PC. Windows should reinstall the driver automatically.
• Alternatively, download the latest drivers from the HP Software & Drivers page.

Reset Camera App Permissions

• Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera.
• Ensure Camera access and Let apps access your camera are both enabled.
• Scroll down and make sure the Camera app has permission.

Try the Camera in Another App

• Open the Camera app from the Start menu.
• If it still fails, try using the webcam in Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams to see if it works there.

Run the Windows Camera Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
• Run the Camera troubleshooter and follow the prompts. 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support