camera

[taylor178]

my camera is black but it is on how do i fix that on a hp laptop

[Max3Aj]

@taylor178, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
I understand your HP laptop camera is turning on but only shows a black screen. Let’s go through some steps to get it working again:

Check Camera Privacy Settings

Sometimes, Windows privacy settings block apps from accessing the camera.

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Go to Privacy & Security > Camera.
• Make sure Camera access and Let apps access your camera are both turned ON.
• Scroll down and ensure the app you're using (e.g., Zoom, Teams, Camera) has permission.

Test with the Windows Camera App

• Press Windows + S, type Camera, and open the Camera app.
• If it still shows black, continue to the next steps.

Check for a Camera Shutter or Privacy Switch

Some HP laptops have a physical shutter or keyboard key (like F8 or F10) to disable the camera. Look for a slider near the webcam or a camera icon key and toggle it.

Update or Reinstall the Camera Driver

• Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
• Expand Cameras or Imaging Devices.
• Right-click your camera (e.g., HP TrueVision HD) and choose Update driver.
• If that doesn’t help, right-click again and choose Uninstall device, then restart your laptop. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

Run HP Hardware Diagnostics

HP provides a built-in tool to test your webcam:

• Go to HP PC Hardware Diagnostics for Windows. HP PC Hardware Diagnostics | HP® Support
• Download and install the tool if not already installed.
• Open it and run the Camera Test under Component Tests.

BIOS and Windows Updates

Outdated BIOS or system files can cause camera issues.

• Visit HP Support Assistant to check for updates.
• Also, go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates. 

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