# Test Your Webcam Before a Video Call
Use the preview to answer the questions that matter before a call: does the camera open, is it the correct camera, is your face clear, and does the picture move smoothly? Test from the same desk, browser and lighting you plan to use in the meeting.- Choose the correct camera if more than one is connected
- Put the camera near eye level and keep your eyes around the upper third of the frame
- Light your face from the front instead of sitting with a bright window behind you
- Close meeting apps and other browser tabs if the camera is already in use
- Check resolution and frame delivery, then judge the actual picture with your own eyes
# Fix a Webcam That Is Black or Unavailable
| What you see | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Permission denied | Camera access is blocked for this site or in system privacy settings | Allow camera access in both places, reload the page and try again |
| Black preview or camera busy | Another meeting app or browser tab is using the camera | Close Zoom, Meet, Teams and other camera tabs, then retry |
| Wrong image | A virtual camera or another connected webcam was selected | Choose another source when the camera selector appears |
| Dark or grainy picture | Your face has too little front light or a bright light is behind you | Face a window or place a soft lamp behind the screen |
| Soft or stuttering video | Low light, computer load or an unstable USB connection | Add light, close heavy apps and connect the camera directly |