Including additional Zoom backgrounds is an enjoyable method for customizing your online meetings and incorporating a hint of innovation to your video calls. In this post, I will lead you through the steps of adding more Zoom backgrounds and also provide some personal insights and opinions throughout the process.
Step 1: Downloading Additional Zoom Backgrounds
To start, you’ll need to find and download the Zoom backgrounds you want to add. There are several websites that offer free Zoom backgrounds, such as Unsplash, Pexels, and Zoom’s own official background gallery. You can also create your own custom backgrounds using image editing software.
Personal Tip:
I love using Unsplash to find beautiful and high-quality Zoom backgrounds. They have a wide range of options, from nature scenes to cityscapes and everything in between.
Step 2: Accessing Zoom Settings
Once you have your preferred backgrounds downloaded, open the Zoom application and click on the gear icon in the top right corner to access your settings. From the settings menu, select the “Virtual Background” tab. This is where you can manage and add new Zoom backgrounds.
Step 3: Adding New Backgrounds
In the Virtual Background settings, you’ll see a preview of your current background. To add a new background, click on the “+” icon next to the preview. This will open a file explorer window where you can browse and select the downloaded backgrounds on your computer.
Personal Tip:
If you have multiple backgrounds you want to add, hold down the CTRL key (or CMD key on Mac) while selecting the files. This will allow you to add multiple backgrounds at once, making it easier to switch between them during your Zoom meetings.
Step 4: Adjusting Zoom Backgrounds
After you’ve added your new backgrounds, you can preview them by clicking on each thumbnail. Zoom allows you to adjust the positioning and size of your background to fit your video frame. You can also enable the “I have a green screen” option if you have a physical green screen setup, which can provide even better background blending.
Personal Tip:
If your chosen background doesn’t perfectly fit your video frame, you can manually adjust the position and size by using the sliders in the Virtual Background settings. Take some time to experiment and find the perfect setup that works for you.
Step 5: Using Your New Zoom Backgrounds
Once you’ve added and adjusted your new backgrounds, they will be available for selection during your Zoom meetings. To choose a background during a meeting, click on the “^” symbol next to the “Start/Stop Video” button and select “Choose Virtual Background”. From there, you can choose any of the backgrounds you’ve added and start using them instantly.
Personal Tip:
Remember to consider the overall tone and context of your meeting when choosing a background. A professional environment might call for a more neutral or office-themed background, while a casual social gathering could benefit from a more lighthearted or creative background.
Conclusion
Adding more Zoom backgrounds is a simple and enjoyable way to personalize your virtual meetings. With just a few clicks, you can transform your video calls and add your own personal touch. Whether you choose to use stunning nature scenes, iconic landmarks, or even your own custom creations, Zoom backgrounds allow you to express your creativity and make your meetings more engaging.