How to Fix Overexposure on Ring Doorbell

Ring Doorbells are recognized for their quality, multiple features, and support for several home automation brands. Easy to set up and use, Ring Doorbells add a layer of security, not only for your home but for package deliveries and neighborhood alerts as well. However, like any good camera lens, Ring Doorbells are subject to overexposure or washed-out video.

Below, we’ll cover several ways you can fix overexposure on your Ring Doorbell so you can view live and recorded feeds clearly.

Activate High Dynamic Range

High Dynamic Range (HDR) is a feature that records images at different resolutions before combining them for the best overall picture. Activating HDR may be the most effective solution for your Ring Doorbell if there is an extreme difference in lighting between the doorbell camera and the yard.

However, only five of the six Ring Doorbell variations have an HDR option; the updated 2020 Ring Video Doorbell is the only doorbell that lacks an HDR option. If you do happen to own a Ring Doorbell with the HDR option, follow these steps to turn it on (you can also follow these steps to see if your device has HDR available):

1. Select the icon with three horizontal lines on the top left of the screen.
2. Select Devices.
3. Select Ring Doorbell.
4. Select Device Settings.
5. Choose Video Settings and turn on the HDR function.

With HDR on, the extreme differences in shade and sunlight should be reduced, hopefully solving the problem with overexposure. If there is still an issue, you should consider moving the Ring Doorbell around while watching the view on your smartphone. If you find a more suitable location that’s convenient for visitors, mount it there instead.

Adjust the Ring Doorbell’s Angle

Even the smallest adjustment in camera angle could substantially reduce overexposure. Ring sells its wedge and corner base plates while there are several third-party options on Amazon as well:

• Wedge Kit for Ring Video Doorbell 2020
• CAVN Adjustable Angle Mount for Ring Video Doorbell 2
• Ring Corner Kit for Ring Video Doorbell Pro
• Wasserstein Adjustable Mount for Ring Video Doorbell 2 and 3
• Ring Corner Kit for Ring Video Doorbell 3, 3 Pro, and 4

Use your smartphone to view different angles while adjusting your Ring Doorbell before purchasing a wedge or corner base plate. A height of four feet is optimal to take full advantage of the Ring Doorbell’s wide view. Combined with a suitable angle, you should be able to minimize overexposure.

Installing the wedge mount will give your Ring Doorbell an angle up or down, while installing a corner mount provides a left and right perspective.

Mounting wedge or corner base plates will replace your normal base plate, but they install the same way. Be sure to confirm that the angle mount you’re purchasing is compatible with your Ring Doorbell.

Cover the Infrared LEDs

Sometimes the night vision is tricky. This is especially true if you install your Ring Doorbell in an area that’s not very well lit, even in the daytime. At night, overexposure is a common occurrence if there is a wall nearby, and the infrared LEDs create a reflection that overexposes the camera.

The least desirable yet effective method to resolve this is to cut tiny strips of electrical tape and use them to block several infrared LED lights, reducing the reflection.

Thanks to recent upgrades, color night vision is now an option as well. With this alternative, you can cover all of the infrared LEDs without losing your night vision and effectively eliminating overexposure.

Install Smart Bulbs

Lastly, you can purchase smart bulbs and download the IFTTT app on your Android or iOS device. IFTTT stands for “If This Then That.” With the combination of a smart bulb, the z-wave protocols that Ring uses, and IFTTT, you can set the smart bulb to turn on whenever your Ring Video Doorbell detects motion, eliminating the need for night vision.

Be sure to check that your smart bulb is compatible with Ring—most smart bulbs are—and with the convenience of the IFTTT app, you will be able to convert your Ring Doorbell into a spotlight cam.

In Summary

Since overexposure is generally caused by location, fixing overexposure on a Ring Doorbell is usually a matter of moving or altering the camera angle. There are several wedge and corner base panels you can purchase to help change the camera angle.

Extreme changes in light and shade may also affect the night vision, which could cause periods of washed-out imagery. Activating HDR on your Ring Doorbell or getting creative with the night vision during the day or night can also help with washout.

As you can see, there are several useful options to eliminate the washout effect of unwelcome lighting. Keep toying with different methods until you find the one that’s right for you, so you can enjoy the full advantage of home security with your Ring Video Doorbell.