Webcam Lighting Test
Preview your camera and estimate if your lighting is too dark or too bright, with quick fixes for clearer video.
Webcam Lighting Test
Estimate if your video is too dark or too bright.
Share your lighting results
Copy/download a report to troubleshoot camera quality with IT/support.
How to use this test
- • Start the test and look into the camera for a few seconds.
- • Face a light source; avoid bright windows behind you.
- • If your face looks dark, increase front light or lower background brightness.
Estimated brightness
Start the test and look into the camera for a few seconds.
Tip: face a light source. If there’s a bright window behind you, your face may look dark even if the room is bright.
How this test works
We preview your webcam using getUserMedia and sample frames in a hidden canvas to estimate average brightness. Everything runs locally.
- • No frames are uploaded or stored.
- • We compute a simple brightness estimate to guide quick adjustments.
Troubleshooting
- • If the camera is blocked, click the lock icon and allow Camera, then reload.
- • Close other apps using the camera (Zoom, Teams, Meet, OBS) and retry.
- • On mobile, keep the tab active so the camera stream stays running.
Quick steps
- • Click Start Test and allow camera access.
- • Look at the preview and check the brightness reading.
- • Add a front-facing light if you are too dark.
- • Reduce backlight or lower exposure if you are washed out.
Fast fixes for better lighting
- • Face a window or lamp; avoid windows behind you.
- • Raise your monitor or laptop so the camera is closer to eye level.
- • Use a soft light (diffuse) instead of harsh overhead lighting.
- • Clean the camera lens if the image looks hazy.
When to use this test
- • Before interviews and meetings to avoid dark or washed-out video.
- • After changing rooms, desks, or lighting conditions.
- • When your camera looks grainy due to low light.
Safety and privacy
- • Video is processed locally; nothing is uploaded.
- • Stop the test to release the camera when finished.
Related tools
FAQ
How accurate is the brightness score?
It’s an estimate based on the camera preview. Exposure and auto-brightness vary by device, but it’s useful for quick setup checks.
Why do I look dark with a bright window behind me?
Backlighting makes cameras lower exposure, darkening your face. Face a light source and avoid bright windows behind you.
Do you upload video?
No. Video stays in your browser and is not uploaded.
What lighting is best for video calls?
A soft light in front of you at eye level (like a lamp or ring light) usually looks best. Avoid harsh overhead light and strong backlight.