Camera & Mic Setup

Confirm Your System Requirements & Browser Compatibility

Before using Big Interview, it’s best to ensure your setup meets the following:

• Use one of the latest versions of a supported desktop browser — we recommend Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox (Mac or Windows). Some older browsers or settings can block or degrade audio/video permission handling.
• Ensure your operating system is up to date — recent patches often include fixes for camera/mic support.
• If using an external camera or microphone, check that the device is officially supported by your operating system.

Grant Browser Permissions for Camera & Microphone

Your browser must allow Big Interview to access your camera and microphone. Follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Big Interview website and sign in.
2. If prompted, select Allow when asked for camera and microphone permissions.
3. If you do not see a prompt, manually check your browser icons:
4. On Chrome/Firefox: click the lock icon or camera icon located near the address bar;
5. Confirm that access to both camera & microphone is enabled for this site.
6. If you have multiple devices (e.g., built-in webcam + USB mic), you may need to select the correct device—either via browser prompt or within Big Interview’s settings (if available).

Adjust Device Settings on Your Computer

If your video or audio still isn’t working properly, check the system‐level settings on your computer.

On Windows:

• Open Settings > Privacy > Camera (and separately … > Microphone).
• Ensure “Allow apps to access your camera/microphone” is turned On.
• Verify your browser (Chrome or Firefox) is listed and allowed in the “Allowed apps” section.
• If you’re using an external mic/camera, go to Settings > System > Sound (or Devices) and confirm the correct input/output device is selected.

On macOS:

• Open System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy tab.
• Click “Camera” and “Microphone” in the sidebar; ensure your browser is checked (i.e., allowed).
• Also check System Preferences > Sound if using an external microphone; ensure the correct input device is chosen and volume levels are sufficient.

External Devices & Other Tips:

• Ensure the external camera or microphone is properly plugged in and powered (if required).
• If you have both built-in and external devices, disconnect any unused ones temporarily to avoid confusion.
• In your computer’s audio settings, check that the input volume (mic) is not muted or set very low.

Update Drivers, Software & Clear Conflicts

Even when permissions are correct and devices connected, other issues may arise due to outdated drivers or software conflicts.

• Update your browser to the latest version.
• Update the drivers for your webcam or microphone.
• Close other apps that might be using your camera or mic simultaneously (for example, video call apps like Zoom, Teams, Skype may “lock” the device).
• Clearing your browser cache and cookies can resolve access issues caused by stored settings or corrupted permission data.

Optimize Your Recording Environment

Lighting & Background

• Use soft, front-facing light (natural daylight or a lamp positioned behind your screen) so your face is clearly visible.
• Avoid strong backlight (window behind you) which can make your face look dark.
• Choose a clean, uncluttered background minimizes distractions and helps your interviewer focus on you (even in practice).
• If using a laptop webcam, elevate it to roughly eye-level (using a stack of books or stand) to maintain good posture and eye contact.

Audio Setup

• Use a quiet room with minimal background noise (turn off fans, close windows).
• If possible, use a dedicated microphone or headset rather than a built-in laptop mic. This often improves clarity and reduces echo.
• Speak clearly at a natural pace and maintain consistent distance from the mic.

Camera Framing & Presentation

• Frame yourself so your head and upper torso are visible (from just below your shoulders to just above your head).
• Maintain eye contact by looking directly into the camera (not the screen) when speaking.
• Sit straight and don’t lean too far into or away from the camera.
• Dress as though you are in a real interview—neat, professional, and free of distracting patterns.

Steps to Test Your Setup Before Starting

It’s wise to test your setup ahead of any scheduled or timed practice interview:

1. Navigate to the practice interview or video assignment area on Big Interview.
2. When prompted for camera/mic permissions, approve them.
3. Record a brief 15-30 second test answer and playback. Check that sound is clear, your voice is audible, and video is smooth (no freezing or pixelation).
4. If something appears off (hiss/echo in audio, dim video, labored frame rate), revisit the earlier steps (permissions, device settings, environment) before proceeding to the full interview.

Troubleshooting: If Something Isn’t Working

Even with correct setup, issues may arise. Here are common pitfalls and how to address them:

Special Considerations for Campus Partners & Students

For educational institutions deploying Big Interview, here are a few additional points to share:

• Encourage students to use quiet, private spaces for practice so they build confidence and reduce distractions.
• Remind them that practice recordings may reflect their professional brand—suggest dressing and preparing as though it’s a real interview.
• Provide a brief pre-session checklist: system compatible browser, camera/mic selected, quiet/bright room, recorded test answer completed.
• Consider scheduling a short “tech check” session ahead of a major assignment where students log in and test their setup together (you or a staff member can monitor and assist).
• Reassure students that their recordings are for practice: encourage them to review playback, self-critique (or peer review), and refine habits.

When to Contact Support

If you’ve followed all the steps above and still cannot resolve the issue:

• Provide Support with the following information: browser name + version, operating system (Windows/Mac + version), manufacturer/model of webcam/mic (if external), a description of what you’re seeing (black screen, no audio, lag, etc.) or steps to reproduce the issue.
• Screenshots or short screen‐recordings can help speed up diagnosis.

Updated on: 12/11/2025