Tired of signing on to Zoom calls with an unkept office or blank wall behind you? In the age of virtual meetings, your Zoom background is like your virtual outfit.
Surveys show that a blank wall ranks the lowest for professionality, while a plant, art, or bookshelf background makes people seem more intelligent and approachable.
Here is everything you need to know about choosing a Zoom background, finding quality background images, and getting set up in the Zoom app.
Why Your Zoom Background Is Important
A Harvard Business Review survey found that most people prefer a natural Zoom background to a virtual one. But a virtual background can show a little more personality if your office doesn’t look too clean or the lighting isn’t great.
Quick Zoom Background Ideas:
Here are some easy props you can use in your background:
- A bookshelf full of books you love (or are popular in your industry)
- A cup, mug or poster with your brand
- Vintage TV or movie posters
- A succulent garden
- A sand garden
- A favorite mug
- A signed football, soccer ball or other sports gear
- A funny pop culture reference
- Trees or plants—this study found that a plant or botanical background makes you appear more approachable.
- A flag from your alma matter
- A collectible
- A world map
- Sports memorabilia
A teaching aid. Choose a background that compliments your product or service. For example, suppose you offer speaking engagements about neuroscience or sell nootropics (brain-boosting supplements). In that case, you may want a background that exhibits your knowledge of the human brain. Our founder here at Science of People, Vanessa Van Edwards, has used graphics of social chemicals she references in her videos to help her as she teaches:
As with any form of communication, the objective of your video call should dictate the ambiance. You probably wouldn’t have a serious business meeting in a bustling quirky coffee shop. Similarly, saving your virtual Star Wars background for more casual Zoom calls is best.
Are you dealing with zoom fatigue? Watch our video to learn how beat it and build your video stamina:
Quick Tutorial: How to Install a Custom Zoom Background
The virtual background feature in the Zoom app allows you to use an image or video as your background as if you are standing in front of a green screen. Thankfully, installing a custom background is simpler than it sounds.
First, check that you have Zoom version 4.6.0 or newer. Then, be sure you have the right real-life background compatible with virtual backgrounds. For best results, you should have a blank wall, a plain sheet, or a real green screen with quality lighting so that your background looks crisp and presentable. Here is more about Zoom’s recommended setup with a green screen.
Once you have set up your green screen, enable the virtual background for your Zoom Rooms with these 12 steps:
- Sign into your Zoom web portal.
- From the navigation menu, click Room Management > Zoom Rooms.
- Click Account Settings.
- Click Account Profile.
- Under Setup, click Virtual Background with Green Screen and toggle the button to enable it.
- If a verification pops up, click Enable or Disable to verify your changes.
- Click Upload Background to add more choices to the default library.
- Click Choose Files and upload an image from your computer. You can also drag and drop an image into the window. Be sure that you have already saved your background selection(s) from below so that the files are easy to access!
- Click Add Items.
- Tap the Settings gear icon in your Zoom Room when your meeting starts.
- Click Virtual Background and then select the background you’d like. You may need to enter the Zoom Room passcode to make changes.
- Tap Recalibrate to allow the app to auto-adjust the virtual backdrop.
Learn more about installing and troubleshooting a virtual backdrop with Zoom’s complete support guide to Using Virtual Background in Zoom Room.
Home Interior Zoom Backgrounds
If your office isn’t the picture-perfect background (because whose is?), you can plug in a virtual home background that radiates a tidy, sophisticated vibe.
1. Minimalist Home
Who’s to say that you don’t live in a modern chic Brooklyn skyrise? This minimalist backdrop is organized, tidy, and trendy, with lots of light to enhance your polished presentation.
2. Elegant Living Room
This cozy-style living room is simple yet elegant for video calls where you want to appear clean, orderly, and somewhat laid back.
3. Modern Kitchen
This modern neutral kitchen looks real enough to be your own well-styled home. The open lighting and plants can make you seem more casual and approachable rather than stuffy or uptight.
4. Organized Ikea Office
Studies show that organized and conscientious people are more likely to grow in their careers. Ikea’s stylized backgrounds for video calls are perfectly organized, which means you look like the tidy, punctual person that employers or clients are looking for. Use this backdrop for a virtual interview or sales pitch.
5. Library Fireplace
Inspired by an elegant resort, this cozy lodge background adds a relaxed vibe to your Zoom call. Think of it like a fireside chat.
6. Modern Loft
Step into the sleek sophistication of a modern loft with this background. Elevate your Zoom call with an ambiance that exudes contemporary style and minimalist charm.
7. Minimalist Library Room
This minimalist library ensures the background doesn’t distract from the meeting and can blend easily with various professional settings and meeting types.
8. Retro Room
Set the scene for a fun and nostalgic Zoom call filled with retro vibes and neon lights, making the discussion more fun and engaging.
Corporate Zoom Background Ideas
For a more polished look, these corporate backgrounds convey that you are serious, organized, and ready to talk business.
9. Executive Office
Harness your executive presence by giving a short speech or presentation with this impressive office view behind you.
10. Conference Room
Nothing says professionality like a classic conference room. Use this background to mentally transport yourself back to meetings you typically had in a boardroom.
11. Slick Office
Make your home office look like a high-end workspace. You can show off your sleek style with a light-colored outfit against this dark backdrop.
Pro Tip: Got a weekly Zoom call or two? If you want help really diving into your video call skills, be sure to sign-up for our goodie here:
[People School]
Creative and Fun Zoom Background Ideas
If you’re more creative, you can use these backgrounds as wallpaper for check-ins with your co-workers or conversation starters during a virtual meeting.
12. Red Brick Wall
Painting and minimalism are their own statements. This backdrop is great for casual video conferencing if you love architecture or cycling.
13. Italian Architecture
Whether you’ve visited Italy or you’re dying to go, you can import this wallpaper to add an adventurous flair to your Zoom chat.
14. Zen Studio
If you love meditation or yoga (or want to get into them), this zen room backdrop can make you feel and look more relaxed on camera.
15. Dreamy Yoga Room
For the artsy remote worker or designer, this surrealist Zoom background brings a creative, inspirational element to video conferencing.
16. Greenhouse
Studies show that viewing images of nature can reduce stress. For tense or high-stake conversations, tap into the peacefulness of plants with this greenhouse backdrop.
17. Wild West Backdrop
Remember those themed dress-up days in school? A wild west background is a nice “Friday Funday” edition to Zoom calls.
18. Hat Wall
Any hat collector will appreciate the orderly symmetry of a nice wall of hats. Plus, it makes you look organized and minimalist on camera!
19. Cityscape
For the city slickers, an urban skyrise background is both professional and intriguing. For verbal presentations, it can help emphasize your fast-paced, self-motivated nature.
20. Home Music Studio
If you are learning an instrument or love to jam on the weekends, this home studio backdrop may start some conversations with your co-workers.
21. Record Collection
Many professionals advocate for bookshelf backdrops to make viewers perceive you as intellectual, professional, and well-read. This unique twist shows off your creative, cultured side with an orderly vinyl collection.
22. Musician’s Oasis
Simple and easy on the eyes, this backdrop is another option for music lovers to make it look like you’re chatting from your home recording studio.
23. Film Photography
If you love to take photos and collect cameras, this Zoom background has clean lines and a clutter-free aesthetic.
24. Chef’s Kitchen
Look like you’re speaking from your professional kitchen with this intriguing chef’s backdrop.
25. Mountain Lake Getaway
The soothing power of water and mountains is not to be underestimated! The combination of natural light and breathtaking scenery can help you appear more relaxed on camera.
26. Fun Art Studio
When trying to get the creative juices flowing on a virtual meeting, this art studio background adds a fun and colorful vibe.
27. Paint Can Backdrop
Demonstrate your creative side with a paint studio background that may spark conversations about your hobbies and interests.
28. Funny Furry Friends
Animal backgrounds are a cute and playful way to spice things up on regular video calls.
29. Disney World
If you visit Disney parks regularly, this blog is a great source for finding fun backgrounds to show off your Disney pride.
Holiday Zoom Background Ideas
Regardless of what winter holiday you celebrate, these Zoom backdrops help you get into the festive mode without detracting from work.
30. Holiday Fireplace
This simple fireplace is a warm, welcoming, and simple backdrop for your virtual call.
31. Disney Holiday Lights
Here is another favorite for Walt Disney fans who want to spread holiday cheer.
32. Elegant Holiday Decor
Although your home might not look this tidy, you can still pretend like you are hosting a virtual meeting from the comforts of your elegantly decorated living room.
33. Blurred Christmas Tree Lights
For a more vague yet colorful holiday backdrop, you can green screen yourself in front of these Christmas tree lights.
34. Holiday Table Setting
Put your fellow meeting attendees at ease with a welcoming tablescape that exemplifies all the coziness and camaraderie of the holidays.
35. Cozy Winter Home
Look polished yet festive in front of this cozy modern home decor.
36. Colorful Lawn Decor
If you love to decorate, this is your chance to get your coworkers excited about a potential holiday party.
37. Candle Light
Simple and elegant, nothing says holidays quite like candlelight and plaid.
38. Winter Wonderland
For outdoor lovers, this blissful snow lake can show off your excitement for winter adventures without distracting from your meeting’s message.
39. Snowy Sunset
Simple, beautiful, snowy, and oh-so-cozy: you can’t go wrong with a snowy sunset for the final winter Zoom meeting of the week.
40. Tropical Getaway
While everyone else is showing off their cozy holiday cheer, perhaps you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway. This is the perfect backdrop to help transition the team into vacation mode.
41. Ski Resort Holiday
Get in the vacation vibe with an exciting ski lodge background and the soothing silhouette of white snow.
DIY Zoom Background Ideas
For a more customizable backdrop, you can use online templates to show off your personality and add a memorable flair to your video calls.
42. Family Memories
For casual occasions, you can create a custom photo collage to show off fun family memories behind your Zoom call.
43. Birthday Backdrop
Wish your coworker, boss, or yourself a happy birthday with this custom illustrated birthday background.
44. Canva Background Templates
Use these Zoom background templates from Canva to customize your DIY backdrop.
45. Playful Zoom Background
Use this free Zoom virtual background creator to integrate playful animations, drawings, and colors into your backdrop.
46. Virtual Business Conference
Incorporate your business’ colors, fonts, and logo into a custom-branded Zoom background using this Canva template.
Funny Movie and TV Zoom Background Ideas
Show off your fandom for popular shows like Friends, Parks and Rec, Bob’s Burgers, or The Office. Some shows may be NSFW, but these backgrounds are lowkey and recognizable enough to spark a conversation or a good laugh. Use them in casual meetings with your team or virtual happy hours with coworkers and friends.
47. The Office
True fans will recognize the conference room.
48. Bob’s Burgers
Transport yourself into Bob’s burger joint with this creative background.
49. Friends
Central Perk coffee shop is the quintessential meeting spot, so why not attend your Zoom meeting from velvety chairs?
50. Seinfeld
Teleport back to Seinfield’s hay day, just don’t be a virtual close talker like Aaron.
51. Modern Family
Insert yourself right into the Modern Family living room scene with this background for your next video conference call.
51. Toy Story
Brighten up your Zoom meeting with this classic Disney reference.
53. Parks and Rec
If you miss Parks and Recreation as much as we do, you’ll probably get some nice laughs from any diehard fans on your virtual call.
Nature-Inspired Zoom Backdrops
Bring nature into your Zoom calls! Choose from mountain, beach, or forest backgrounds to brighten up your meetings and hangouts.
54. Forest Canopy
The tranquil atmosphere of this canopy forest can help reduce stress and increase focus, enhancing productivity during virtual meetings.
55. Coastal Beach
This backdrop has a calming effect that can promote relaxation and creativity, making it easier to engage and contribute during virtual brainstorming.
56. Mountain Peak
The sense of accomplishment from “ascending” a virtual mountain peak can boost confidence and motivation, leading to more active participation.
57. Tranquil Lake
It’s calming, isn’t it? This tranquil lake backdrop can create a serene environment, conducive to clear thinking and thoughtful collaboration.
58. Starry Night Sky
This stunning night sky sparks creativity and fuels engaging conversations, whether you’re chatting with colleagues or loved ones on a late-night Zoom call.
Travel Zoom Backgrounds
Whether it’s business discussions or planning your company outing, these captivating backgrounds are sure to spark conversation and fuel your sense of wanderlust.
59. Ancient Ruins
Transport your workmates or loved ones to this historical setting to encourage curiosity and engagement, inspiring creative thinking during zoom calls.
60. Safari Sunset
The serene beauty of this Safari sunset backdrop adds a touch of personal interest and relaxation to the formal setting of business meetings.
61. Space Exploration
This backdrop is sleek and not too busy, which means it won’t distract anyone from what you’re saying. Plus, it is neutral and can fit in any professional zoom calls without feeling too personal.
62. Underwater Paradise
This backdrop is a hit across the board, adding a splash of beauty that keeps everyone intrigued and pleasantly distracted during those longer pause on zoom calls.
63. Polar Expedition
This backdrop signals a bold, explorative spirit, which can be inspiring in professional settings, suggesting that you are open to new challenges and thinking outside the box.
Seasonal Zoom Backgrounds
Elevate your work meetings with refreshing backgrounds that set the tone for productive discussions. Upgrade your virtual workspace and keep your colleagues engaged with a touch of seasonal flair.
64. Spring Blossoms
The vibrant colors of this spring blossom can provide a beautiful and refreshing visual backdrop, making your video feed visually pleasing and calming.
65. Summer Picnic
The relaxed setting of this summer picnic backdrop creates an inviting atmosphere that can make zoom calls feel more friendly and approachable.
66. Autumn Maple Forest
This backdrop can make your setup look more sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing, which helps in maintaining a professional image.
67. Winter Cabin
This warm cabin in a snowy landscape provides feelings of coziness and comfort, making your meeting space seem more inviting and relaxed.
68. Winter Wonderland Village
If your meetings occur around the holiday season, this backdrop adds a festive touch that can lift spirits and bring joy to the interaction.
Artistic Creations Backgrounds
These Zoom backgrounds blend professionalism with personality, sparking conversations and keeping everyone engaged.
69. Surreal Dali Landscape
This artistic and unusual backdrop of Salvador Dali Landscape makes it easier to break the ice and can be beneficial in problem-solving scenarios.
70. Touch of Marius Borgeaud “The White Room”
Inspired by Marius Borgeaud, the minimalist elegance of the white room can convey a sense of calm and order.
71. Impressionist Monet Garden Inspiration
Inspired by Monet’s garden artwork, this impressionist art captures the look of nature with soft, dreamy brushstrokes.
72. Abstract Kandinsky Composition
Inspired by Kandinsky’s abstract, this backdrop inspires free-thinking and experimentation.
73. Van Gogh Starry Night
Who doesn’t know Van Gogh’s starry night? This backdrop can create a sense of wonder and awe.
Coastal Retreats Backdrop
These backdrops can elevate your meetings with the soothing sounds of waves and the refreshing ocean breeze!
74. Seaside Cottage by the Waves
Feeling stressed? Just imagine yourself chilling in that seaside cottage, listening to the waves. Instant mood lift guaranteed, a mini mental vacation right in the middle of your workday.
75. Coastal Pier at Sunrise
Nothing sets a positive tone for the day like the serene beauty of a coastal pier at sunrise.
76. Beachfront Boardwalk at Dusk
This backdrop strikes the perfect balance. It’s professional enough for business discussions, yet inviting enough for casual chats, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
77. Sandy Beach with Palm Trees
With a palm tree backdrop, you can bring a sense of relaxation to virtual meetings.
78. Cliffside Villa Overlooking the Sea
Look at this breathtaking view! With the sea breeze gently blowing and waves crashing below, it’s the perfect backdrop for retreat lovers.
Rustic Countryside
Too much city getting to you? Try one of these country-based backgrounds.
79. Rolling Hills and Meadows
Staring at a screen for hours on end can be draining, but a backdrop like this offers a visual escape. Plus, who doesn’t love rolling hills!
80. Peaceful Vineyard Landscape
Or perhaps you’re surrounded by a vineyard. Red, white, sparkling, oh my!
81. Tranquil Barn and Silo Scene
The rustic charm of this barn and silo brings a touch of nostalgia without the smelliness to any Zoom meeting!
Urban Skylines
Bring downtown vibes to your virtual workspace! You can find one of your own citu or use one below.
82. Cityscape Silhouette
Want to make a statement on Zoom? Choose a city skyline as your backdrop for a dynamic vibe that says ambition, progress, and innovation.
83. Nighttime City Lights
Steering time zone differences in remote work can be tricky. A nighttime city lights backdrop lets you hop into meetings anytime, no daylight giveaways.
84. Urban Park
Need a breather from the city buzz? Parks are abundant and always bring a sense of calm.
85. Riverfront Cityscape at Dawn
Kickstart your Zoom meetings with a serene riverside view at dawn. A great backdrop for the early birds!
Bonus Tip: Learn the Art of Stage Presence
Did you know that public speaking is actually a skill? Many people struggle with stage anxiety because they feel they ‘missed the memo’ on public speaking or they are lacking because they do not have a natural stage presence. Not true!
Stage presence and public speaking are skills you need to be taught—very few people have them naturally.
Watch our video to learn 7 steps to overcome stage fright and how to beat performance anxiety:
Here are all the aspects of public speaking you can master.
- How to make a first impression with an audience
- How to have stage presence
- Powerful body language
- How to speak with a commanding voice
- What to do with your hands while speaking
For every speaking skill you add to your toolbox, the less speaking anxiety you will feel.
Frequently Asked Questions on Choosing Zoom Background
To make your Zoom background look natural, ensure good lighting, avoid wearing colors similar to your background, and use a high-resolution image. Position yourself in front of a plain wall or a green screen for the best results.
Yes, creative professionals might enjoy backgrounds such as a minimalist home, a modern kitchen, or an art studio. These options add a touch of personality and creativity to your Zoom calls.
Fun Zoom backgrounds include retro diners, wild west backdrops, funny furry friends, and popular TV show settings like Central Perk from Friends or the office from The Office. These backgrounds can lighten the mood and serve as conversation starters.
Yes, you can use Zoom backgrounds without a green screen, but for the best quality, a plain, single-color background is recommended. Zoom’s background detection may struggle with complex or multi-colored real-life backgrounds.
For team-building activities, consider fun and engaging backgrounds like themed movie sets, popular TV show locations, or creative spaces like an art studio. These can help spark conversations and create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Key Takeaways: Choose Your Zoom Background Based On Your Goals
Choosing the right Zoom background is about clarifying your objectives. What is your goal for the video call, and how can your backdrop enhance your message?
In the age of remote work, your presentation on camera is as important as your outfit or office cleanliness in a real office. With most meetings happening virtually on apps like Zoom, you only have a few chances to nail that first impression and get your message across.
Learn more in our full guide to Zoom Etiquette: How to Build Rapport Online Like a Pro.