You join a video call and the camera is black, or an app says it cannot find one. The good news is that the built-in camera on a Mac rarely breaks outright. Far more often, a permission or a restriction is blocking it. Apple’s own troubleshooting page follows this order, so we do too.
1. Update your software
Apple’s first step is to make sure your Mac’s software is up to date. Open System Settings, click General, then Software Update.
2. Check Screen Time restrictions
This is the one people miss, especially on a family or work Mac. If you use Screen Time, the camera can be blocked there. Apple’s steps:
- Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, then click Screen Time.
- Click Content & Privacy, then App Restrictions (labeled Apps on some versions).
- Make sure Camera is selected.
- Click App Limits. If you need the camera in an app that is on that list, make sure the app is off or not selected.
3. Give the app permission
macOS decides which apps can use the camera. Open System Settings, click Privacy & Security, then Camera, and switch on any apps you want to use the camera. Apple says you might be asked to quit and reopen the app before it works. This is the most common fix for a camera that works in one app (such as FaceTime) but not in another (such as a browser).
4. Restart your Mac
Apple says that on a Mac with Apple silicon you should simply restart. On an Intel-based Mac, Apple recommends resetting the SMC instead.
5. Check the indicator light
Apple notes that if the camera indicator light next to the camera flashes green, you might need service.
6. Rule out the app
If FaceTime works but another app does not, the problem is that app. Quit it, reopen it, or check its own camera settings, since many video apps let you choose which camera to use. If FaceTime itself will not connect, Apple has a separate page, “If FaceTime isn’t working on your Mac”.
Still nothing?
If none of this works, Apple says the camera may need service. At that point a visit to an Apple Store or an Apple-authorized service provider is the right call.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my Mac camera black?
Usually the app lacks permission, a Screen Time restriction is blocking the camera, or the app is set to use a different camera.
How do I give an app camera access?
System Settings, Privacy & Security, Camera, then turn the app on.
Does restarting help?
It can. Apple lists it as a step for Apple silicon Macs.
Sources
Last checked November 3, 2026. Apple changes its instructions between updates, so if a menu looks different on your Mac, check the linked Apple page.
