Why isn't my camera working?

There are a number of reasons you might not be able to access your webcam when trying to record a ShoutOut video in the browser. Here are some common issues and their solutions.

• Your browser is not able to record videos. We recommend you use the latest version of Google Chrome or Firefox to record your ShoutOut video. If your computer cannot run one of these, you can also record on a phone with the same link, the quality also tends to be higher from phone cameras.
• Your browser does not have permission to use your webcam. For security and privacy purposes, each website you access requires your permission to use certain special features like your camera or microphone. Here are some guides that explain how to give access to your camera and microphone:
  • Chrome
  • Firefox
  • Safari
• Your camera is being used by another application (e.g. for a video call). If you have given permission to ShoutOut to use your camera but are still seeing a blank black screen, your camera might be in use by another application or website. Check to see if this is the case and close or stop sharing your camera with the application.
• You have multiple cameras connected and you are seeing the video from the camera you do not wish to use. This has to be configured in the browser, as individual websites cannot choose which webcam to use. See the above links for more information on browser webcam settings.
• Your camera is not connected or your device does not have a camera. You will need to connect a camera to record in the browser, if you cannot do so, please try with a mobile device, or upload a file directly to the platform (e.g. from a camera).
• Your camera is covered. Many of us now use camera covers for privacy purposes, simply uncover your camera to record your video.