Change Your Zoom Background

Modified on Tue, 19 Jan, 2021 at 10:08 AM

Overview

The Virtual Background feature allows you to display an image as your background during a Zoom Meeting. You can upload your own images as a virtual background.

Prerequisites

Make sure your computer meets the system requirements for Virtual Background.

Recommended setup

Download the SHSSP21 Zoom background found in Microsoft Teams https://liveisunet.sharepoint.com/sites/SHSSP21/Shared%20Documents/General/3%20-%20Operations/zoom_background_for_ceremonies.jpg
Higher quality cameras result in a better virtual background. See camera recommendations for details.
Use uniform lighting.
Do not wear clothing that is the same color as the virtual background.

Enabling Virtual Background

Note: Users must sign out of the Zoom Desktop Client and sign back in for Virtual Backgrounds to take effect.

To enable the Virtual Background feature for your own use:

Sign in to the Zoom web portal.
In the navigation menu, click Settings.
In the Meeting tab, navigate to the Virtual Background option (under the In Meeting (Advanced) section) and verify that the setting is enabled.
Notes:
- If the setting is disabled, click the status toggle to enable it. If a verification dialog displays, choose Turn On to verify the change.
- If the option is grayed out, it has been locked at either the group or account level, and you will need to contact your Zoom administrator.

Using Virtual Background

Windows | macOS

Sign in to the Zoom desktop client.
Click your profile picture, then click Settings.
Select Virtual Background.
Note: If you do not have the Virtual Background tab and you have enabled it on the web portal, sign out of the Zoom Desktop Client and sign in again.
Check I have a green screen if you have a physical green screen set up. You can then click on your video to select the correct color for the green screen.
Click on an image to select the desired virtual background or add your own image by clicking + and choosing if you want to upload an image or a video.
If prompted, click Download to download the package for virtual background without a green screen.
Notes:
- Ensure that you are using a solid background color.
- After you select an option, that virtual background will display during your meetings.
- To disable Virtual Background, choose the option None.

Linux

Android | iOS

Enabling Virtual Background during a meeting

If you have already have Virtual Background enabled in the web portal, you can turn it on during a meeting.

Zoom Desktop Client

In a Zoom meeting, click the upward arrow (^) next to Start/Stop Video.
Click Choose Virtual Background....
.
If prompted, click Download to download the package for virtual background without a green screen.

Troubleshooting

If you are experiencing issues with Virtual Background, try the following troubleshooting tips:

If you do not have the Virtual Background tab in your desktop client settings after enabling it, sign out of the client and sign in again.
Manually pick the background color to ensure the correct color is selected. This option is only available after you click an image.
Ensure that the background is a solid color with minimal shadows. Also ensure the background is uniform in lighting. A 3-point lighting setup is ideal.
Ensure that your green screen color does not match your shirt or eye color.

If you continue to experience issues, contact Zoom Technical Support.