Laptop webcam turns off automatically when room is dark

[buntybunton]

I have a new HP laptop which is working great however, annoyingly, whenever I use my webcam and the room goes dark, it automatically turns off my webcam. Is there a way to stop this from happening? I've tried increasing my brightness and using my camera however it still turns off. Any help appreciated 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @buntybunton,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're stoked to have you on board! 

To help us get started on resolving your issue, could you please share the model name of your device?

We're looking forward to helping you get back up and running! 

Best regards,

[buntybunton]

My laptop is this :

HP 17-cn2021na Full-HD Laptop - Core™ i3

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @buntybunton,

Thank you for the response.

Try these steps:

1. Check Device Manager Settings

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Imaging Devices or Cameras.
3. Right-click your webcam device and select Properties.
4. Go to the Power Management tab.
5. Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.

2. Update Webcam Driver

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Imaging Devices or Cameras.
3. Right-click your webcam and select Update Driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Follow the prompts to complete the update.

If no updates are available, visit the HP Support website and download the latest driver for your laptop model.

3. Adjust Privacy Settings

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Privacy > Camera.
3. Ensure Allow apps to access your camera is toggled on.
4. Scroll down and make sure the specific app you’re using is toggled on as well.

4. Modify Power Settings

1. Press Windows + X and select Power Options.
2. Click on Change plan settings next to your current power plan.
3. Select Change advanced power settings.
4. Expand USB settings > USB selective suspend setting.
5. Disable this setting for both On battery and Plugged in.

5. Check Webcam Settings in the App

If you’re using a specific application (like Zoom, Skype, etc.):

1. Open the application.
2. Go to Settings or Preferences.
3. Check under Video or Camera settings for any options related to low-light conditions.
4. Make sure no settings would automatically disable the camera in dark environments.

6. Restart Camera Service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down and find Windows Camera Frame Server.
3. Right-click on it and select Restart.

7. Ensure Good Lighting Conditions

As a temporary workaround, you can ensure a consistent light source so that the camera doesn’t shut off. Consider using a small desk lamp or any other light to maintain illumination.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,