Why Does My Video Recording Look Blurry? Plus 8 Simple Fixes

Key Takeaways:

• You can fix blurry videos to some degree, but it’s always best to figure out why your raw footage is low-quality and fix this instead.
• Always test your setup, including lighting, your recording device, and your software.
• Record with local recording software like Riverside to ensure your video quality isn’t affected by your internet connection.

Are you fed up with low-quality videos and blurry recordings? If you often ask yourself why your video recording looks blurry, you have come to the right place!

In this article, we address the key reasons for blurry video - and how to fix them. 

So, put an end to low-quality recordings and get sharp, clear video footage every time you record. Here’s how.

Why does my video recording look blurry? 8 Reasons and fixes

The first step to fixing blurry video recordings is finding the cause. Here we’ll look at the key reasons behind shaky video or blurry recordings, and what to do about each one.

Poor lighting

Webcams require enough light to detect contrast and focus properly. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a low-quality and blurry video. 

How to fix poor lighting

Opt to record in bright places and environments. Natural lighting always works best. 

If you’re recording indoors or in rooms that are dark, consider investing in a video lighting setup. The addition of a simple, LED ring light - or even a desk lamp - can lead to crisper videos. 

If you want to go all in, consider checking out our three-point lighting setup guide, or you can watch the video below.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Position your main light source in front of you: Place it slightly above eye level to avoid shadows and create a flattering, even light.
• Use a secondary light behind you: A soft background light reduces shadows and adds depth to your setup. Don’t use a strong light behind you, as this will shadow you out as the subject.
• Angle lights at 45 degrees: If using multiple lights, place them at a 45-degree angle on either side to balance brightness and minimize harsh shadows.

Low camera quality

Not all cameras capture crisp and clear videos. To do so, they need to film in a reasonably high video resolution. If the camera can only film in low resolution, the videos will be blurry. 

How to fix camera quality

For high-quality pictures and footage, you need a camera that can film in 1080p resolution or higher. We’d actually suggest shooting in 4K as this gives you more editing flexibility, even if you’re exporting in 1080p.

Find out what resolution your camera or recording device supports. It’s usually written somewhere near the lens. Or, you can quickly find an answer by searching for the make or model online. If your current camera doesn’t meet the mark, check out some of our best webcams picks

Shaky hands

Shaky hands is a very common issue that can cause blurry footage. It happens when video creators rely on themselves to hold and stabilize the recording device. 

How to fix shaky hands

Use a tripod to hold and steady your device - it’s as simple as that. Tripods are inexpensive and really easy to get your hands on. Ensure that the one you’re buying is compatible with your device. 

If your budget is very low and limited, you can get creative. Use whatever you can get your hands on to prop up your device, whether that's books, cups, or plant pots. No matter what you choose, as long as it’s stable, it’ll do a better job than your hand.

Low-quality recording software

Not all video recording software will capture high-quality video, even if the device you’re using has a high resolution. This means you need to pay attention to the resolution that your recording software supports as well. 

How to deal with low-quality recording software

Check what recording resolution your software supports. If you’re filming at less than 1080p, you may need to upgrade. If you’re using a free or limited version of a certain software, check if moving to a paid plan will allow you to record in higher resolution. With Riverside, you can record and export videos in up to 4K. This gives you plenty of room to edit and capture content in superior quality.

Bad internet connection

If you’re using a video recording solution that requires an internet connection, your blurry recordings could be a result of internet issues. Slow internet speeds cause buffering and lagging. This can increase load time, resulting in poor streaming quality and low-quality recordings.

How to fix a bad internet connection

The easiest and quickest way to fix this issue is to ensure that your recording software records locally. What this means is that it captures video or audio content directly on our device, rather than recording on the cloud. This ensures that your internet connection will never be an issue. 

Unlike other platforms like Google Meet and Microsoft Teams, Riverside records your content locally in up to 4K video and 48 kHz audio, ensuring you get a high-quality recording every time. Each person’s video and audio records directly on their device on separate tracks, and then automatically uploads to the cloud for easy accessibility.

To troubleshoot internet issues, also consider the following:

• Closing unnecessary browser tabs and apps: Free up bandwidth by shutting down applications and tabs that aren’t needed.
• Use a wired Ethernet connection: For more stable internet, connect directly to your router with cables rather than relying on Wi-Fi.
• Pause any large downloads or uploads: Ensure that no other devices or programs are consuming significant bandwidth.
• Test your internet speed: Run a speed test to check if your connection is stable enough for high-quality recording. If you speak with your internet provider about the issue, they may be able to help.

Being out of focus

A blurry video recording could come down to issues with focus. This can happen if the lens of your camera is not properly focused. It can also happen if the subject of the video moves too much or too quickly for the autofocus system during recording. 

How to fix being out of focus

When a camera is going in and out of focus regularly, this is usually caused by the autofocus feature. If this is switched on, the autofocus will readjust as the subject moves until the lens is back in focus. This means that if there is too much movement. Or if the lighting is too dark, lenses can have trouble stabilizing. 

We suggest you:

• Minimize movement: Try to stay as still as possible to prevent the autofocus from readjusting frequently. Also use a tripod, if you arent already.
• Switch to manual focus: If possible, set your focus manually to lock onto your subject and prevent constant adjustments.
• Enable face or eye detection (if available): Many cameras offer these features, which improve focus tracking on your face or eyes.
• Position yourself at an optimal distance: Stay within your camera’s focal range for the clearest image.
• Avoid busy backgrounds: Simple, uncluttered backgrounds prevent the camera from “hunting” for focus between you and other elements.

If you’ve messed up and can’t re-record, try tools such as Focus Magic and Topaz Labs AI, which use AI to sharpen blurry images.

Wrong recording settings

Incorrect recording settings could result in blurry videos. This is such an easy mistake to make, but frustrating all the same. Fortunately, it can be easily avoided.

How to fix using the wrong settings

When you’re setting up to record, always check that the correct device has been selected for your video. Then, try to record in at least 1080p. Anything less will result in a pixelated image. Make sure your focus is all set. Then do the following:

• Set your frame rate: Frame rate is the number of stills your camera takes per second in your video. Use 30 fps (frames per second) for smooth playback or 60 fps for capturing fast motion.
• Adjust your bitrate: Bitrate effects your video quality and file size. A higher bitrate gives clearer video; aim for at least 10 Mbps for HD quality.
• Select the right file format: Recording in video formats like MP4 ensures compatibility and high quality with efficient file sizes.
• Enable image stabilization (if available): Some cameras and software offer digital stabilization options that help keep your video steady.
• Optimize audio settings: Ensure your microphone is set as the audio input, and consider using raw audio formats like WAV for better sound quality.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to record a test before starting your recording to make sure all your settings are where you want them to be.

Dirty lens

If your video recording is blurry, one easy thing to check is whether your lens is dirty or smudged. It sounds simple, but a squeaky-clean lens can make a big difference!

How to fix a dirty lens

Before hitting record, always check the lens and give it a quick clean. Use an air blower and a soft-bristled brush to remove as much dirt as you can. Then you can either use a drop or two of lens cleaning solution with a microfiber cloth, or a cleaning wipe to wipe the lens clean. Start from the outside, and in a circular motion move to the center, gently removing anything that shouldn’t be there.

Extra tips for improving video quality

Follow these additional tips to ensure the highest quality videos every time!

• Record during the daytime so you can make use of natural light in your video.
• Make sure to update your software and devices to ensure you’re using the most up-to-date and high-quality version.
• Turn off notifications to avoid any unwanted alert sounds in the background of your recording.
• Test your recording setup to make sure your device and software is working as it should. Try Riverside’s device tester to test your microphone, camera, and internet connection.
• Make sure devices are charged or plugged in to avoid losing power halfway through recording.

Creating high-quality videos with Riverside

Want to have peace of mind that your videos will be high-quality every time? Then choose Riverside as your recording software. It records locally - even for participants recording remotely through the software - to ensure you get the highest quality audio and video. 

You can record up to 4K video and 48 kHz audio. And, when you’re done, you can use Riverside’s extensive range of editing tools, including quick and efficient AI-powered features, to create a professional-quality product. Try it for free here.

FAQs on how to avoid blurry video recordings

Looking for more information? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.

Can blurry videos be fixed?

Yes, blurry videos can be fixed in post-production, but only to a certain degree. Prevention is always better than a cure. It’s much better to sort out the issue that is causing low-quality videos, and focus on getting the highest-quality raw footage possible. 

If it’s too late for that, you may be able to apply sharpening features in specific video editing tools. 

What camera settings can lead to blurry footage?

As a general rule of thumb, camera settings with an aperture of F/14 or higher, and an ISO higher than 800, can lead to blurry footage. If these settings are too high, it can significantly degrade your picture, and lead to low-quality videos.s 

These are the recommended settings for crisp videos:

• Frame per second: 24 fps or 60 fps for slow motion
• Shutter speed: Double the frame rate (or as close as possible), for example, a film at 24 fps, should have a shutter speed of 1/50
• Aperture: F/11 will ensure everything is sharp, choose F/2 if you want it to appear softer
• ISO: 800 for indoors without an external light, 400 for a cloudy day, 100/200 for bright condition