How to Change the Focus Settings for a Microsoft LifeCam
By Kirk Bennet
The Microsoft LifeCam webcam helps you initiate video calls and keep in touch with your family or friends, and it can even help provide technical support if you run your own small business. The LifeCam has a built-in microphone and its 1080p HD sensor is able to record high-resolution video and capture still images. The Microsoft LifeCam software enables you to control most of the settings of your webcam. Although the webcam adjusts its focus automatically by default, you can take control of the device and adjust it manually.
Step 1
Launch the Microsoft LifeCam software and click the arrow at the right of the LifeCam window to open the dashboard.
Step 2
Click the "Gear" icon to switch to the Settings tab and disable "Truecolor" by clearing its check box.
Step 3
Click the "Properties" button to view the webcam's advanced settings.
Step 4
Click the "Camera Control" tab, deselect the "Auto" option next to "Focus" and click "Apply."
Step 5
Move the "Focus" slider to change the focus of your LifeCam manually. Moving the slider to the right makes the camera focus on objects that are closer to its lens, while moving the slider to the left forces the camera to focus on objects that are farther away.
Step 6
Click "OK" to apply the new settings and close the Properties window.
References
Warnings
- The focus controls are only available on some LifeCam models.
- Information in this article applies to Microsoft LifeCam Studio. It may vary slightly or significantly with other versions or products.
Writer Bio
Kirk Bennet started writing for websites and online publications in 2005. He covers topics in nutrition, health, gardening, home improvement and information technology.