7 Solutions to Resolve Mac Camera Issues in 2024

Are you experiencing issues starting a video call on your Mac? There are various applications available on Mac that allow users to make video calls. If you're unable to engage in video calls, it's likely that either the built-in camera or an external webcam isn't functioning properly. Numerous Mac users have reported problems with their Mac's built-in camera not functioning efficiently.

It's understandable that the camera is one of the most essential applications on a Mac, given its importance for professional presentations, social gatherings, and various other purposes. Additionally, numerous third-party applications rely on the system's built-in camera; hence, any issues with the camera can significantly impact their functionality.

In that scenario, it's crucial to implement solutions to promptly address the issue. This article will explore the various fixes to resolve the Mac camera not working problem.

Translation into English:

How to Resolve Camera Issues on macOS?

Is your Mac camera not functioning properly? Don't worry! There are numerous solutions available to resolve this problem. To make it easier for you, we've included a video that addresses this issue.

• 0:55 Reset SMC and NVRAM
• 1:31 Terminate Camera Assistant
• 2:02 Permit Camera usage for specific apps
• 2:41 Upgrade to the latest macOS version
• 3:00 Employ an external camera

Now let's look at the different solutions listed here.

Method 1: Quit macOS Camera Processes

Terminating the MacOS Camera processes can assist in resolving issues with the camera not functioning properly. If you are concerned about data loss, ensuring you have backups of essential files is advisable. To stop camera processes, follow these steps:

Step 1. Quit the apps that use the camera.

Step 2. Launch the Terminal. To do this, click on Applications > Utilities > Terminal.

Step 3. Type `sudo killall VDCAssistant`. Press the Enter key.

Step 4. Type sudo killall AppleCameraAssistant. Press the Enter key.

Note: If prompted, enter the administrator password.

You must restart the system and check if the issue is resolved. If not, you'll need to proceed with alternative solutions.

Method 2: Select the Correct Camera in the App's Settings Step 3: Adjust Camera Permissions for the App

Were you aware that incorrect settings within an application can result in a malfunctioning camera? Indeed! It's possible that you accidentally configured some incorrect settings within an app that utilizes the camera. Nevertheless, it's crucial to identify the mistake and rectify it.

To do that, you first need to open the application. Then, press the Command key plus the Comma key. This will take you to the preferences. Now, you should be able to see the camera settings.

Additionally, if you have multiple cameras connected to your system, select the appropriate one. If unsure, opt for the built-in camera on your Mac. This method can also help resolve the Zoom camera not working issue.

Method 3: Allow Camera Access on Mac

At times, updating the system can result in disruptions to camera permissions. In such instances, you will need to reset them.

To do that, follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to the Apple menu. Click on "System Settings" from the dropdown menu.

Click on "System Preferences" from the dropdown menu.

Step 2. Next, select Privacy & Security. Then, navigate to the Privacy section.

Step 3. On the left side, select Camera. Look through the apps and choose the ones for which you want access to the camera.

Step 4. Quit the window. Open any app that uses the camera and see if it's working.

Method 4: Restart Your Mac to Fix the Camera Issue

Sometimes, the most straightforward solution yields the best outcomes. Have you attempted restarting the system to address the issue? You never know when the problem might be resolved.

To restart the system, simply follow these steps: click on the Apple icon. From the dropdown menu, choose the Restart option. The system will shut down and then restart after a few seconds.

Method 5: Check the Camera in Mac's System Report

Another solution to fix the Mac Camera not working issue is to examine the System Report. To do this, follow these steps:

Step 1. Click on the Apple icon and select System Settings.

Step 2. Navigate to the General tab from the left-hand sidebar. Then, scroll down in the right-hand settings panel and click on System Report.

Step 3. Following that, click on 'Hardware.' Select 'Camera.' You will now see all the information pertaining to the camera.

注意:如果你找不到这些信息，系统将无法检测到相机。在这种情况下，你无能为力，必须联系Apple支持团队来解决这个问题。

Method 6: Remove App Screen Time Limit on macOS

Does the camera function properly in one application but encounter issues in another? Firstly, it's crucial to identify the root of the problem. Launch various applications and observe which ones the camera works correctly in. In this scenario, the issue could potentially be linked to the screen time settings for those specific apps.

Removing the screen time limit can help resolve the issue. Follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to the Apple menu. Choose System Settings.

Step 2. From the left-hand panel, select Screen Time. Proceed to Content & Privacy.

Step 3. In the following window, you need to select the App Restrictions option.

Step 4. Make sure the Allow Camera option is turned on under the Allowed section.

Reopen the camera to check if the issue has been resolved.

Method 7: Update to the Latest macOS to Fix Mac Camera

In certain instances, issues pertaining to the existing macOS can result in the camera malfunctioning. In such scenarios, the solution lies in updating the macOS. This ensures that you acquire the latest version while simultaneously addressing the problem.

Check out the steps you can follow to upgrade to the latest macOS.

Step 1. Go to the Apple menu and choose System Settings from the dropdown.

Step 2. Click on "General" from the left-hand panel, followed by "Software Update." If updates are available, you need to select "Upgrade Now."

If there are no updates available, you'll need to check again at a later time for any updates.

Bonus Tip: How to Retrieve Missing Videos on Mac

Have you experienced data loss while upgrading to the latest macOS version? If so, data recovery is crucial. To accomplish this, you can utilize professional data recovery software. Give Data Recovery Wizard for Mac a try for a seamless data retrieval experience.

Mac USB recovery software is a professional data recovery tool designed to facilitate the retrieval of various types of data. Notably, the user-friendly platform simplifies the data recovery process with straightforward steps. Additionally, it offers exciting features, making it an attractive option for users.

• You can recover deleted files on Mac, including videos, music, documents, and other types of files.
• Retrieve data from hard disks, SSDs, USB flash drives, pen drives, and other storage devices.
• Safely send the recovered data to cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
• Preview the files you intend to recover using this software.
• Scan for lost data and selectively restore files using the file filter feature.

Step 1. Choose the drive to be scanned

In the main interface of the Data Recovery Wizard, you'll see a list of drives connected to your Mac. Choose the drive from which you need to recover lost or deleted files, and click the "Search for lost files" button.

Note: Before proceeding with data recovery, it's recommended to click "Disk Backup" from the left sidebar to create a backup of your Mac to prevent any potential further data loss. Once the backup is done, the software can retrieve data from the Mac backup, and your computer can then continue to write new data.

Step 2. Select the lost data/files

Data Recovery Wizard for Mac will instantly scan your chosen disk volume and display the scan results on the left panel. If you're searching for specific files, you can sort the results to locate them more easily.

Step 3. Recover Lost/Deleted Data

After locating the desired files, preview them and then click "Recover" to commence the retrieval of your deleted/lost Mac files.

Conclusion

A malfunctioning Mac camera can be an infuriating issue, making it difficult to participate in meetings or presentations. Therefore, it's crucial to explore various solutions promptly.

To address this issue, you can update to the latest macOS versions, examine the System Report, restart your system, and so on. However, it's essential to consider the possibility of data loss before implementing these solutions.

An efficient data recovery program is invaluable in case of data loss. You can download and install a reliable Mac data recovery software tool, such as this free Mac data recovery software. It is user-friendly and highly dependable. If you haven't tried it before, give it a go today!

"MacBook Pro Camera Not Working" FAQs

You can implement these solutions to resolve the issue of the MacBook Pro Camera not functioning. However, for further information, refer to the frequently asked questions and answers below.

1. How do I reset my Mac camera? To reset your Mac camera, follow these steps: 1. **Shut Down or Restart Your Mac**: First, ensure that your Mac is either turned off or restarted. This helps refresh the system and resolve any temporary issues. 2. **Check System Preferences**: Open "System Preferences" from your Dock or by searching for it in Spotlight (press Command + Space). 3. **Select "Security & Privacy"**: Click on the "Security & Privacy" icon within the System Preferences window. 4. **Allow Camera Access**: If the camera is disabled or you've denied access to an application, click on the lock icon in the bottom left corner and enter your admin password to make changes. Then, under the "Privacy" tab, select "Camera." Make sure the checkbox next to the app you want to use the camera with is checked. 5. **Toggle Camera On/Off**: If the issue persists, try enabling and disabling the camera. Go back to "System Preferences," click on "FaceTime" (or "Photo Booth" if you have it), and toggle the camera on and off. 6. **Force Quit Camera App**: If an app is using the camera, force quit it. Press Command + Option + Esc, select the app from the list, and click "Force Quit." 7. **Reset PRAM/NVRAM**: Resetting the Parameter Random Access Memory (PRAM) or Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory (NVRAM) can help resolve hardware-related issues. To do this, shut down your Mac, then restart while holding down the following keys together: Command + Option + P + R. Release the keys when you hear the startup sound for the second time. 8. **Update macOS**: Make sure your Mac is running the latest version of macOS. Go to "System Preferences," then "Software Update" to check for and install any available updates. 9. **Contact Apple Support**: If none of the above steps work, you may need to contact Apple Support or take your Mac to an Apple Authorized Service Provider for further assistance.

To reset the Mac camera, follow these steps: Open the Terminal application. Then, type in "sudo killall VDCAssistant" and press Enter. Next, type "sudo killall AppleCameraAssistant" and press Enter again. If prompted, enter your administrator password.

2. Why is my Mac camera displaying a black screen?

There are several reasons that could account for the black screen issue with your Mac camera. Firstly, it might be caused by a blocked lens. Additionally, it could also result from issues with the driver software responsible for the camera's proper functioning.

3. How do I access the camera on my Mac?

To access the camera on your Mac, follow these steps: Launch the Finder application. Navigate to the 'Applications' folder, and then double-click on 'Photo Booth.' The camera is active if you see a green light indicating its status.

4. How do I activate the camera on my Mac?

To activate the camera on your Mac, follow these steps: Navigate to the 'Applications' folder. Select 'Photo Booth.' Wait for the green light to turn on; this signifies that the application is functioning correctly.