Using the flash when video calling can improve image quality and lighting in dim environments. However, knowing how to turn on the flash varies across devices and apps. This article will provide quick answers on enabling the flash for video calls on iPhone, Android phones, WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. Follow the simple steps for your device and app to start video calling with proper lighting.
How to turn on flash for iPhone video calls
The iPhone camera flash cannot be manually enabled for standard video calling through Phone, FaceTime, or third-party apps. However, there are a few workarounds:
Use the Torch feature
The iPhone’s torch/flashlight feature can act as constant illumination during video calls:
1. Open Control Center by swiping down from the top right corner of the screen (iPhone X or later) or swiping up from the bottom (iPhone 8 or earlier).
2. Long press the Torch icon to turn it on. This will activate the flash and provide light during your video call.
3. Position the phone to point the flash towards you. Be careful not to stare directly into the light.
4. Tap the Torch icon again to turn it off after your call.
Use a third-party light or lamp
As the iPhone camera lacks a flash option, an external lighting source like a desk lamp or accessory mobile light can help brighten your video calls. Position the light source close to your face. Adjust the brightness and direction to achieve optimal lighting.
Change locations
If lighting is poor in your current location, move to a brighter spot with overhead lighting, sunlight from windows, or lamps. Face towards the light source for visibility during video calls.
How to turn on flash for Android video calls
Unlike iPhone, accessing the flash for Android video calls is straightforward:
From the video calling app
Many Android video calling apps have a Flash icon that can be tapped to turn on the light. This includes WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom, Google Duo, Instagram, Snapchat and others. The icon may look like a lightning bolt, torch or number 1 inside a circle.
If you cannot find the flash option, tap the 3 dot menu icon during a call and check if a Flash or Torch setting is available in the menu.
From the Camera app
The default Camera app on Android also lets you control the flash:
1. Open the Camera app and switch to the Video mode.
2. Tap the Flash icon on top and select On or Auto mode.
3. Now start your video call through the app. The flash will stay on.
4. Once done, switch the flash off in the Camera app.
This keeps the light active even when you switch apps to your video calling platform. Place the phone in a stable position facing you during the call.
Third-party apps
Some Android devices may have pre-installed selfie light apps that can be used during video calls. These apps activate your screen or Torch to add lighting. Check if your device brand includes such apps.
You can also install third-party flashlight or videocall light apps from Google Play. But be wary of app permissions and data privacy practices before installing unknown apps.
How to turn on flash on WhatsApp video call
WhatsApp has over 2 billion users worldwide. Follow these steps to enable flash when video calling someone on WhatsApp:
1. Start a WhatsApp video call with a contact.
2. Tap the Flash icon on the call screen. It looks like a lightning bolt inside a circle.
3. Select Torch to turn on the flash. Select it again to turn off after the call.
4. Position the phone’s rear camera side steady and facing you for the flash to illuminate your face.
5. You can also tap Flash Off to disable it if the lighting conditions improve during the call.
If you are unable to find the Flash option, update WhatsApp to the latest version. Older versions may lack video call flash support. The flash feature is available on both Android and iOS WhatsApp.
How to turn on flash on FaceTime video call
FaceTime is the native video calling app on Apple devices. Unfortunately, FaceTime lacks a flash option for iOS currently. There is no setting or button to activate the LED flash.
Instead, use some of these alternative lighting solutions:
– Turn on the screen Torch/Flashlight and point it at your face.
– Use a portable external light or selfie ring light.
– Sit near a window or lamp for ambient lighting.
– Change to a brighter location if your current spot has poor lighting.
– Use the rear camera which tends to have better low light capture.
Hopefully Apple will add manual flash control to FaceTime in future iOS versions. Until then, arrange for external lighting sources when FaceTiming in dim environments.
How to turn on flash on Skype video call
Here is how to enable the camera flash during Skype video calls:
On iPhone and iPad:
– Skype for iOS does not have an option to turn on the LED flash.
– Use the device Torch/Flashlight feature from Control Center or ask Siri.
– Sit near a window or lamp and face the light source.
On Android:
1. Open Skype and start a video call.
2. Tap the camera switch icon during the call.
3. Tap the Flash icon to turn it On, Off or Auto.
4. Position the phone’s rear camera towards you. The light will illuminate your face.
5. You can switch the flash off again during the call if needed.
On Windows PC and Mac:
– Enable Night Mode in Skype video settings for better contrast and brightness.
– Adjust your device webcam settings to improve lighting.
– Use an external clip-on webcam with built-in ring light for direct illumination.
– Add table lamps, position near windows for natural lighting.
How to turn on flash on Zoom video calls
Zoom is arguably the most popular video conferencing tool globally. With Zoom, activating flash is easy on mobile but not possible on desktops currently.
On iPhone and Android:
1. Start or join a Zoom meeting.
2. Swipe left on the Zoom screen to open camera options.
3. Tap the Flash icon to turn on / off the LED light.
4. Point the rear camera towards your face during the call.
On Windows and macOS:
– There is no flash option on Zoom desktop app as webcam flashes cannot be controlled through software.
– Enable HD video and adjust brightness/contrast for better lighting.
– Use external clip-on ring lights that plug into your webcam’s USB port.
– Alter room lighting by opening curtains, turning on lamps, etc to appear brighter on camera.
How to turn on flash on Microsoft Teams video call
Microsoft Teams is popular for enterprise video meetings and calls. Here is how to turn on the camera flash:
On mobile devices:
– Tap the 3 dot More Actions menu during a Teams call.
– Select Turn camera flash on or off.
– Toggle flash on, point the rear camera towards you.
– Later access the menu again to turn off the flash when done.
On Windows and macOS:
– There is currently no flash control option for desktops in Teams.
– Enable Low light compensation under Settings > Devices for better lighting.
– Use external USB webcams with inbuilt LED lights and adjust positioning.
– Alter room lighting arrangement for bright, evenly lit conditions during calls.
Conclusion
Proper lighting is important for good quality and visibility during video calls. While flashlight and screen torch options can help illuminate your face, optimal external lighting arrangement is ideal. Position lamps, sunlight sources properly to appear clearly visible on your device camera. Use app settings to control brightness, contrast and flashlight access where available. With good lighting habits, you can have productive video conversations even in dim environments.