Zoom – Changing the Virtual Background

Before the Meeting (Desktop App):

  1. Open Zoom:
    • Launch the Zoom desktop application on your computer.
  2. Sign In:
    • Sign in to your Zoom account if you haven’t already.
  3. Access Settings:
    • Click on your profile picture or initials in the top-right corner.
    • Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
  4. Navigate to Virtual Background:
    • In the left sidebar, click on the “Virtual Background” option.
  5. Choose or Upload a Background:
    • You will see a selection of default background options.
    • To use one of these, click on it. To upload your own, click on the “+” icon.
    • Choose a file from your computer to set as the background.
  6. Adjust and Preview:
    • Zoom will show a preview of your selected background. Adjust the settings as needed.
    • Ensure you have proper lighting for the best background experience.
  7. Enable Virtual Background:
    • Check the box that says “I have a green screen” if you have one, or select the appropriate background setting based on your environment.
  8. Join or Start a Meeting:
    • Now, when you join or start a meeting, your selected background will appear.

During a Meeting (Desktop App):

  1. Join a Meeting:
    • Join a Zoom meeting as you normally would.
  2. Access Virtual Background:
    • Click on the “^” (caret) button next to the “Stop Video” icon in the meeting toolbar.
  3. Choose or Upload a Background:
    • Select “Choose Virtual Background” from the menu.
    • Follow steps 5-7 from the “Before the Meeting” section above to select or upload a background.
  4. Preview and Apply:
    • Preview the background and click “Apply” to use it during the meeting.

Note:

  • Ensure your system meets the requirements for virtual backgrounds. Using a physical green screen can improve the quality of virtual backgrounds.
  • Some older computers may not support virtual backgrounds or may experience performance issues.
Keep in mind that the steps and options may vary slightly depending on the version of the Zoom application you are using. Always refer to the latest Zoom documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions.