I recently had a problem using my Microsoft LifeCam Cinema WebCam in Microsoft Teams.
I would appear dark and have no way or adjusting it, sometimes it might randomly correct itself.
My camera had no noticeable way of changing any of its properties.
Hi Asid, Are you referring to issue when you use C; If the Camera has received web camera software (Ex: LifeCam) from manufacturer, use that application, capture the photo and check if the issue persists. LifeCam HD-3000. Required Input Device. Required Media Drive. Other System Requirements. VGA video calling: Intel Dual-Core 1.6 GHz or higher, 1 GB of RAM 720p HD recording: Intel Dual-Core 3.0 GHz or higher, 2 GB of RAM. Follow Microsoft Accessories.
Suggested Fixes
As suggested on some forums, opening the Windows 10 Camera App should fix the contrast issue.
However this did not work for me.
Alternatively, it was suggested to roll back the driver for camera which I didn’t feel like attempting to track down an older version of the driver.
Solution
The secret it turns out is to use Skype and its ability to modify your camera’s settings.
I simply needed to disable auto exposure but there was no native way to do that in Windows 10.
Using Skype I could modify it, here are the steps:
Open up Skype and go to the
Settingspop-out menu option:Navigate to the
Audio & Videomenu item and click on theWebcam settingslink:You should see the Properties dialog of your camera and the option to change your
ExposureorFocus:The Auto capability on the
Exposureoption, is what caused my camera to not adjust the contrast as expected.
From here you can experiment with which checkbox needs toggling off.
References:
Camera brightness in Microsoft Teams
Teams camera too dark
Microsoft had a Surface launch in spring this year. Apart from the Surface, the company also launched accessories for the Microsoft Modern line of devices. These accessories are meant to meet the demand for work-from-home devices due to the surge in the use of Teams in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Best webcams 2021: our top picks.
Among the accessories is the new Microsoft Modern Webcam. The rumors of the webcam have been around for a few years now according to The Verge.
With the Modern Webcam, Microsoft promises to deliver a 1080p webcam that’s affordable and fairly basic. This webcam will set you back $69.99 and joins the family of Microsoft webcams that include the LifeCam HD-3000 ($39.99), the LifeCam Studio ($99.99), and the LifeCam Cinema ($69.99).
Specs
- Resolution: 1080p HDR output at 30 fps
- Field of view (FoV): 78 degrees
- Compatibility: macOS 10.15/11, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10
- Pixel size: 1.4 micrometers
- Size: 2.9 x 2 x 1.4 inches
- Connectivity: USB-A. No USB-C
- Weight: 3.4 ounces
Design
The Microsoft Modern webcam looks a lot like the LifeCam HD 3000 that was released in 2011. But this time Microsoft has gone with more rounded edges. The camera is also much lighter than its predecessor.
Features
So, what are some of the cutting-edge features expected in the new webcam? Looking to make the Modern Webcam relevant today and in the years to come, Microsoft threw in the following features:
Support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) Videos
The Microsoft webcam will support HDR videos. This will allow users to create more realistic visuals in their videos.
Privacy Cover
The Microsoft Modern Webcam comes with a privacy cover to help users cover the lens when it’s not in use. A privacy cover is essential if you want to keep your privacy protected. The webcam features a Microsoft Teams LED usage indicator and controls that allow you to open the privacy shutter, so you can turn Teams video off and on.
Special Features
The Microsoft webcam features auto white balance, facial retouch, and automatic light adjustment. White balance is particularly important since it helps account for the overhead lighting. Microsoft will also throw in a feature called True Look to make your photos will look much better during Zoom meetings.
No 4K Video
Microsoft Lifecam White On White
The Microsoft Modern webcam will disappoint users looking for a webcam that supports 4K resolution. This is because the resolution is capped at 1080p with a pixel size of 1.4-nanometers. The larger pixel size allows the webcam to perform a lot better than it would in low light conditions.
The Modern Webcam’s resolution is perfectly okay for most users, but those looking for sharper details in their video streams will have to look elsewhere.
Compatibility
The Modern Webcam is compatible with macOS and Windows. However, some features will only work on PC. It’s also certified for Microsoft Teams and comes with a year-long warranty and a 30-day return period.
Verdict
Microsoft Lifecam White On One
Whether you’re working from home or the office, the Microsoft Modern Webcam is a reliable and high-quality webcam. It’s perfect for virtual face-to-face meetings. The integrated privacy shutter is an excellent addition to the webcam. Not only does it help with privacy, but it also doubles up as an on and off switch for Teams. The high-quality HDR video and “True Look” deliver fixed light adjustment, facial retouch, and autofocus to help you look your best during Zoom calls.
Microsoft Lifecam White On Gold
Microsoft is hell-bent on catching up with the completion with the 1080p Microsoft Modern. Going forward, they should look into releasing a webcam with 4K resolution.