A video seam inspection device includes a video imaging device, a support for a container along an optical axis of the video imaging device and independent light means for illuminating a seam on the container. The two light means include a side light source and a direct light source. The direct light source may be used to transmit light through a ring illuminator which reflects light off a mirror located along the optical axis of the video imaging device. A side light source transmits light to a light transmission means which focuses the light towards the seam of the container at an angle different from the angle of light from the ring illuminator. A can having a cut-out section of the bottom is placed on the support such that the cross-section of the can is exposed and illuminated by each of the light means. The video imaging device then transmits an image of the seam to a display device.
