If your Zoom camera is showing a black screen, you’re not alone.
This issue is frustrating and can prevent others from seeing you during meetings and calls.
The problem could be caused by camera access issues, outdated drivers, conflicting apps, or settings errors.
Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix this problem quickly without reinstalling Zoom.
In this guide, you will learn how to fix the Zoom camera showing a black screen and the reasons behind this problem.
How to Fix Zoom Camera Showing Black Screen
To fix the Zoom camera black screen issue, start by checking camera permissions and restarting the Zoom app.
If that doesn’t work, update camera drivers, close conflicting apps, and test your camera.
Here is how to fix the Zoom camera black screen:
- Check camera permissions
- Restart the Zoom app
- Update camera drivers
- Close conflicting apps
- Test your camera
- Restart your computer
- Reinstall Zoom
1. Check Camera Permissions
Sometimes Windows blocks camera access for apps.
Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera.
Make sure camera access is turned on for your device.
Allow apps to access your camera and make sure Zoom is enabled.
2. Restart the Zoom App
Restarting Zoom can fix temporary glitches causing the black screen.
Close Zoom completely by right-clicking the taskbar icon and selecting Quit.
Reopen Zoom and check if the camera works.
3. Update Camera Drivers
Outdated or faulty drivers can cause camera problems.
Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
Expand Cameras or Imaging devices.
Right-click your camera and select Update driver.
Follow prompts to update the driver.
Restart your computer and try Zoom again.
4. Close Conflicting Apps
Other apps using the camera may cause conflicts.
Close any apps like Skype, Teams, or camera software.
Restart Zoom and check the camera.
5. Test Your Camera
Make sure your camera works outside of Zoom.
Open the Camera app on Windows and check if the camera shows video.
If it does not work, your camera may be faulty or disconnected.
6. Restart Your Computer
Restarting your PC can fix system issues.
Close all apps and restart Windows 10 or 11.
Open Zoom and test the camera again.
7. Reinstall Zoom
If none of the above steps work, reinstalling Zoom might fix the issue.
Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
Uninstall Zoom and remove leftover files if needed.
Download and install the latest version from Zoom’s official website.
Open Zoom and check the camera again.
Conclusion
Zoom camera showing a black screen is frustrating but usually fixable in a few steps.
Checking permissions, restarting Zoom, updating drivers, and closing conflicting apps are the best ways to solve this problem.
If the issue persists, reinstalling Zoom should be your last resort.
Hopefully, one of these solutions helped you fix the camera problem so you can be seen in your meetings again.
If this guide was useful, consider sharing it with others who may be facing the same problem.
Additional Reading:
How To Fix Zoom Mic Not Working On Windows 10, 11
Brianna is based in Minnesota in the US at the moment, and has been writing since 2017. She is currently a 3rd Year med student at the time of writing this.
