Why Is My Camera Feed Turning Black and White

Our Swann cameras have a light sensor that detects if it is daytime or nighttime. If there is no light being detected, or not enough light, the IR LEDs in our cameras will turn on so that they can see better in the dark. However, it can only show black and white video.

If the cameras are showing black and white video during the day, the following are possible factors:

1. The camera is installed indoors where it may or may not get enough light exposure, especially if the only light source is from a nearby lamp or ceiling light. A cooler-colored ambient light may also prevent the infrared (IR) cut filter from engaging, which can cause the camera to display in black and white.
   • Resolution: Relocate the camera to a well-lit area if indoors or add warmer ambient lighting to illuminate the area so that night vision sensors are not triggered, and the camera view displays in color.
2. For Swann Security DVRs and NVRs - The camera has an on-screen display setting where Day & Night is set to Black & White instead of Auto or Color. See General Idea: On-screen Display (OSD) or Image Control.
   • Resolution: Check the manual of the camera on how to operate the controller or access the on-screen display (OSD) menu of the camera. Look for Day and Night mode. Set Day & Night to EXT or AUTO. You can also reset the camera to factory defaults through the OSD menu, or if you have an NHD IP camera, reset it through the NVR menu under the Advanced > Maintain menu screen.
3. For DVRs and NVRs - You are using older cameras from a previous security system or upgraded your system. 
   • Resolution: For Swann Security recorders, log in to the Main Menu. Go to Display > Live). Under Camera Type, select TVI or AHD depending on the type of camera you have. Click on Apply to save.
4. The camera may not be receiving sufficient power from its power adapter for the night vision sensor.
   • Resolution for DVR cameras: Test the power adapter by swapping it with the DVR's power adapter. PRO- model cameras use the same power output rating of 12V as its DVR model. See Swap DVR Power Adapters (PSU) to confirm Video Loss
5. For DVRs - The extension cable of the camera may be faulty. Using old camera cables or 3rd party camera cables can affect the camera's video quality or performance. 
   • Resolution¹: 4K cameras are recommended to be connected to the extension cable with purple BNC connector. Even if it was working before with your own cable, the build quality of this cable is better and can handle the live feed better. See Different BNC colors
   • Resolution²: Test the extension cable of the camera. See How to swap DVR Cameras to extension cables to confirm Video Loss
6. If all of the above has been done and the camera is still in black and white during the day, it is likely that the camera's IR-cut filter is stuck rendering it faulty. This can occur when the camera has been long overexposed to direct light on its sensors/lens especially when it is pointed toward the horizon where the sun rises or sets. See Camera Location Tips.