Create Custom Microsoft Teams Background Images
We’re at home, so let’s have some fun. This guide will show you how to create, customize, as well as how to upload Microsoft Teams background images. Whether it is a coworker, student, or anyone really, we can add our own touch to a meeting.
Custom Microsoft Teams background images allow you to put some of your own style as well as for fun. It can capture an exclusive look making people want more.
When the world went remote last year, customers turned on video twice as much. By using a custom background effect it will take away the distraction and also make sure the focus is on you.
You don’t need a green screen or a blank wall. With everyone going remote, you can get creative with all different types of images. So, what are you waiting for?
Where to Find Microsoft Teams Background Images
You can create and find all sorts of images to download for Microsoft Teams. It allows all custom images to be uploaded from your own library. Let’s check out the best places to find images.
Microsoft Teams Background Images by Microsoft
Microsoft Teams has a default backdrop blur already included. Microsoft’s design team also created a collection of preset background images you can download and then upload into Teams. The images range from professional to funny background (such as a modern office to the being on set of The Masked Singer).
Microsoft teamed up with some big names such as Fox and the NFL to create some fun background images to use with Teams. If you are a gamer be sure to check out Xbox designs. You can also download and submit images directly from them.
Airbnb
It is a hard time to travel but AirBNB is sharing some exotic pictures perfect for your backdrop. What a great way to start up a conversation.
Great for a business meeting or family-friendly. From pictures such as a Bamboo House in Bali, Indonesia to a cute ocean view cottage in Havanna, Cuba. Find some amazing views to dream about seeing one day.
Hello Backgrounds
Hello Backgrounds provides business-friendly background images for video conferencing such as Microsoft Teams, Skype, Google Meet, or Zoom. Find over 300 photos to show your creativity. From private offices to shared offices, business meeting rooms to living spaces, and outdoor landmarks to buildings. Whether the meeting is with a colleague, an interview, or a sales pitch they have you covered.
You can browse the entire collection or narrow down the choices. Once you find the pictures you want, you can either download each image as a JPEG or purchase a larger full resolution picture for $15.
IKEA
IKEA also has a large collection of backdrop photos great for your Microsoft Teams meetings. You can find scenes anywhere from offices, celebrations, fabulous views, romantic dates, and bedroom spaces. There are several to choose from as well as high-quality images you can download for free.
With everything going on in the world have some fun with different pictures by uploading them to Microsoft Teams to use for all types of meetings. Have a date with one of the romantic views or use one of the office pictures for a business meeting.
You can either download a single background or all the backgrounds all at once.
Marvel
For Marvel fans, the company has released some great pictures perfect for a backdrop in your video call. When more people transitioned to online, the company released some of their movie locations to use during your call. Imagine having an Avengers theme as a backdrop, instead of your kitchen wall in a company meeting.
Pexels
Pexels offers a variety of free background images to download for video calls. Although the pictures were designed more for Zoom, they will work on Microsoft Teams. The pictures range from offices to outdoor scenes for more of an artistic look.
Room For Zoom
If you are looking for something different check out Room for Zoom. The company offers images that can be used on both Zoom and Microsoft Teams. Here you will find backdrops such as the Breaking Bad Trailer, ET, The Apple Campus, Mario Kart, and more.
On the site, you will find many of the pictures are from video games and movies. However, the company has included some business pictures as well.
Unsplash
Unsplash is one of my favorite places to find free high-resolution images. However, they do allow you to support the author by joining their social media accounts or by paying tribute to them on your page. You can also hire the photographer by clicking a link at the top left of the screen.
Unsplash has thousands of background images that are perfect for Microsoft Teams meetings. You will be able to select from all types of different types which include outside views, animals, homes, offices, and more.
Customize Microsoft Teams Background Images
You can also find online programs that will allow you to select photos and edit them. Below you will find some free places you can use to find images as well as edit the photo to personalize it. Many people will include a company logo or text.
However, an important thing to keep in mind when using text in the background is the text will appear backwards when you hit apply. But, it will not show that way to everyone else during the meeting.
When Teams uses a custom backdrop the top of the image is shown more. So, make sure the text and logos are more towards the top of the page.
Adobe Spark
Adobe Spark, unlike the other places mentioned, requires a subscription. However, you can get the free subscription they have. The free subscription comes with templates for Instagram, Facebook, presentations, and more.
Spark is great for businesses as well as teams or clubs. You can either use the pictures that they provide or upload your own. Many people are attracted to Adobe Spark because it is easy to use and options available for branding.
To create a backdrop picture for Teams click on custom size, and then use 1920 x 1080.
From here you can either choose from one of their templates or upload a background of your choice. Then you can add text, design shapes, and logos.
Canva
Canva also requires a subscription. Like Adobe Spark you can create a free account to create some great backdrops to upload to Microsoft Teams. The free subscription provides templates to Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and more. Some images require a paid subscription but you can still find a lot of free ones.
Canva is also great for businesses and groups. Its a very easy way to create a brand for a business as well as provides all sorts of tools for your business.
Begin by searching and selecting Microsoft Teams backgrounds. You will then be given a large selection of templates to choose from. You can either select a template or work with a blank file.
Canva has a large collection of templates and pictures to use for all types of accounts. In the paid version you have access to more photos and templates. But the free one is great to start with especially if you are only creating one or two projects.
Microsoft PowerPoint
Depending on the Microsoft 365 subscription you have, you can use PowerPoint to create custom background effects. PowerPoint also allows you to use images, logos, shapes, icons, and text. Many times it is the most familiar as well as a comfortable program to create designs. You can easily duplicate slides to create several different backdrops fast.
Start by creating a blank 16 x 9 PowerPoint file. 16 x 9 ratio is great for people with webcams. Teams needs the file to be an image. So, the next step is to save the file as an image. Below are the steps to save PowerPoint as a file:
Windows:
If you have one image, click on it to select the picture, and then right-click and select Save Image As. If you have more than one image or with text, objects, etc., hit Cntrl S on your keyboard (Select All), and then right-click to select Save Image As. Use the drop-down next to where you name the file to select JPEG. Then finish by clicking Save.
Mac:
Click File at the top of the screen and select Export. Then you will be able to use the drop-down next to the file name to select JPEG.
How to Upload Background Images Microsoft Teams
You can change a Teams background by either changing it before a meeting starts or during the Teams meeting.
How to Change the Background Before a Microsoft Teams Meeting Starts
This works with both Windows and Mac OS.
When you are setting up a new Microsoft Teams meeting select the Background Filters located just below the image.
A box will appear on the right hand side to choose from the default pictures or upload your own. To upload your own select the + Add Button. Then you will be able to choose the photo you wish to use for your meeting.
The background will remain on the last one chosen until you turn it off. You will need to select the blank image that is selected above.
How to Change a Background After a Meeting Starts
You can change the backdrop picture at any point in the meeting by clicking the 3 dots at the top-right of the screen and Apply Background Effects Icon as shown above.
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