
To create a good background for video calls, start with a clean and clutter-free space. A tidy room sends a positive message to your colleagues and clients.
Consider the color palette of your background. A neutral color like beige or light gray can help you blend in and avoid distractions.
Position yourself in front of a wall with a solid color, avoiding busy patterns or textures that can be distracting.
A well-lit room is also essential, with natural light being the best option. If possible, position yourself near a window to create a pleasant and professional atmosphere.
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Setting Up Your Background
Setting up your background for video calls is easier than you think. To add a Zoom background, click the Settings button, choose Background & Filters, and pick the best Zoom virtual background to upload. If you encounter issues, make sure you're using the necessary system requirements for your device.
To choose a good background, consider lighting: ensure your lighting complements the background. A dark background might require additional lighting to avoid appearing shadowy, while a bright background might cause you to appear washed out. Avoid backgrounds with too much visual noise or clutter, as this can be distracting for other participants.
For optimal display, use a Zoom background with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, a common high-definition (HD) resolution that will ensure your background looks crisp and clear.
3D
Setting up your background with 3D features can transport you to a digitized version of an office space, co-working space, or a café.
Virtual 3D backgrounds can create an immersive and real experience, making it feel like you're not at home.
You can use sophisticated backgrounds with 3D features to make it look like you're in a different location.
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Setting Up Your Profile
Setting up your profile is an essential part of setting up your background, and it's actually quite simple. You can easily find the perfect background to project professionalism or set the right mood for your next video call.
To get started, think about what kind of impression you want to make on your clients. A customized background with your company branding is a great way to go, but a minimalist office space can also be aesthetically appealing and professional.
In terms of size, make sure your background image is 1280 by 720 pixels and in JPG format. This will ensure it looks great on any device. You can select any image from a library or upload your own.
Before joining the event, set your background to make sure everything looks perfect. You can do this by clicking on the "+" icon to upload your own virtual background. And you're ready to stream!
If you need to change your background during the event, you can do so by clicking on the Audio and Video settings button. It's easy to switch between backgrounds, so don't be afraid to experiment and find the one that works best for you.
Using a Green Screen for Conferencing
Using a green screen can make virtual backgrounds slicker by allowing the video call software to differentiate between what needs to stay in shot and what's going to have effects laid over it.
A green screen is a green backdrop that makes it easier for your video call software to work with. It's a great solution if you're wearing similar colors to your background or need to move around a lot during your call.
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Maximizing the brightness of your computer screen in low-light environments can indeed help improve visibility and clarity, which can be especially useful for reducing eye strain. However, using a green screen can also help in low-light environments by providing a clear contrast between the green background and your face.
To get the most out of a green screen, make sure you have a stable internet connection and compatible hardware. This will ensure an uninterrupted experience and help you look your best on video calls.
Here are some tips for using a green screen effectively:
- Choose a green screen that complements your skin tone and clothing.
- Position the green screen in a way that creates a clear contrast between the background and your face.
- Experiment with different lighting setups to find one that works well with your green screen.
Setting Up
To set up your Zoom background, go to Settings in your Zoom app, click on Virtual Background, and choose a picture you downloaded or use one of the default images. Zoom may stretch or shrink it to fit the video window, so it's best to use a background with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels for optimal display.
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You can find thousands of images and backgrounds of any type on websites like Envato Elements, which is a paid service, or Unsplash, which is free. Midjourney is another option, but you need to use Discord to access it.
Before joining a video call, test your background to see how it looks on the screen. You can use the preview feature on your video conferencing platform or take a screenshot or selfie to check if your background is appropriate, clear, and well-lit.
Here are some tips for choosing a Zoom background:
- Consider lighting: Ensure your lighting complements the background.
- Mind the clutter: Avoid backgrounds with too much visual noise or clutter.
- Pay attention to branding: If you're using Zoom for business calls, consider using a background that incorporates your company's branding elements.
To change your Zoom background on mobile, select 'Virtual Background' from the menu, and then choose from the available backgrounds or tap + to upload a new one from your phone's gallery.
Best Practices for Backgrounds
To create a great background for video calls, consider the following best practices. A busy pattern or clashing colors can be distracting, so choose a simple design. A blurred background or a block color can help keep the focus on you.
To avoid visual clutter, minimize the use of novelty backgrounds during external calls and virtual events. This will help you present a more professional look and maintain a polished appearance. A well-chosen background can also create the right atmosphere for different types of meetings.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use natural or artificial lighting to illuminate your face and background without creating glare or shadows.
- Position yourself in front of a light source that is at eye level and slightly to the side, or use a ring light or a desk lamp to enhance your lighting.
A virtual background can be a great option if you don't have a suitable physical background. Choose a background with green or light colors that convey a welcoming and calming environment to maintain both privacy and professionalism.
Best Practices for Backgrounds
To create a professional and distraction-free background for your video calls, consider using a blurred background or a block color. This will help keep the focus on you and your message.
A minimalist bookshelf background can add a calm and organized feel to your virtual meetings, while a clean, modern background with a simple white wall and a touch of greenery can maintain a neat and distraction-free look.
Avoid using busy patterns, clashing colors, or moving elements in your background image or video, as these can be distracting and unflattering. Instead, opt for a background that is neutral and calming, such as a green or light-colored virtual background.
To ensure a professional appearance on video calls, it's essential to have balanced lighting that accentuates both your face and the background. Position yourself in front of a light source that is at eye level and slightly to the side, or use a ring light or a desk lamp to enhance your lighting.
Here are some additional tips for creating a great background:
- Use a virtual background that has a green and/or light colors, and/or shows a welcoming and calmed environment.
- Avoid using a background that has motion or distracting elements.
- Consider using a background that reflects your personal style or brand.
- Keep your background simple and uncluttered to avoid distractions.
- Use a stable internet connection and compatible hardware to ensure an uninterrupted experience.
By following these best practices for backgrounds, you can create a professional and distraction-free environment for your video calls and presentations.
Cool Images
If you're looking for cool images to use as virtual backgrounds, you're in luck. Livestorm offers a library of over 100 free virtual backgrounds for video calls, meetings, and conferences. You can download and use them in any virtual background tool.
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For a more professional look, consider using virtual backgrounds that have a green and/or light colors, and/or show a welcoming and calmed environment. This can help you maintain both privacy and professionalism.
Some popular options include nature scenes, celebrations, and sports. You can find these and more on Livestorm's website.
Preparing for Video Calls
The best virtual background for client-facing calls is one that's customized with your company branding. This will give a professional and cohesive look to your video calls.
Testing your background before the call is crucial to ensure it looks good on the screen. You can use the preview feature on your video conferencing platform or take a screenshot or selfie to check if your background is clear, well-lit, and free of any issues.
To check your background, use the preview feature or take a screenshot or selfie with your setup. This will help you identify if your background is too busy or dilutes your message, allowing you to make necessary changes.
Conference Room
For a professional look, consider using a conference room background for your video calls. This can transport you back to the office and create a sense of formality.
A modern conference room background is a great choice for board of director meetings. It's been the most fashionable virtual background for a long time and looks great.
For a more minimalist look, you can opt for a white meeting room background. This sleek, all-white space with a sleek table and comfortable chairs creates a polished and professional atmosphere.
Full-body background separation is also an option for live stand-up presentations. This allows you to separate the user body in full length on a video, which can be useful for presentations that require a more dynamic approach.
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RingCentral
To prepare for video calls with RingCentral, you can enable virtual backgrounds on the web, desktop, and mobile app. This feature allows you to choose from preselected images or add your own.
On the RingCentral Video platform, click "More" from the in-meeting controls, then select "Virtual background" to access the feature. You can select from a list of available backgrounds or click the "+" symbol to add your own image.
To enable virtual background before a meeting, click the gear icon in the app's upper-right corner, then select "Settings > Virtual background". This will allow you to configure the feature ahead of time.
If you have a green screen, you can enable the "I have a green screen" option to use it with your virtual background. This can be done during a meeting by selecting "Virtual background" and then enabling the option.
Here's a quick reference guide to enable virtual background on different devices:
By following these steps, you can easily enable virtual backgrounds on your RingCentral Video platform and make a great impression on your video calls.
Interview Preparation
To make a good impression on a video call, it's essential to prepare a suitable background. Opt for a background that represents your professional character. A scenic virtual background like a landscape or a bookshelf can communicate your interests and provide a talking point to break the ice in meetings.
Think carefully about what your choice says about you, as it can give your interviewer an idea of your personality. A sports field background might suggest you're an outdoorsy person, while a bookshelf might indicate you're a bookworm.
To ensure you're fully prepared, it's a good idea to test your microphone and camera before the call. This will help you avoid any technical issues during the interview.
Technical Settings
To set up a good background for video calls, you should consider the lighting. A well-lit area with soft, natural light is ideal, as it reduces harsh shadows and glare.
The color palette of your background is also important. A neutral color like beige or gray can help you blend in and avoid visual distractions.
Positioning your background is crucial for a professional look. Place it at least 3-5 feet away from the camera to prevent it from being distorted.
Adjust Desktop Zoom
To adjust your desktop Zoom settings, start by opening Zoom and signing in. You can do this even if you're already in a meeting.

Make sure the brightness of your computer screen is at its maximum, especially in low-light environments, to improve visibility and clarity. This can help reduce eye strain and ensure a clear image.
Effective lighting is crucial for a professional appearance on video calls. Aim for balanced lighting that highlights both your face and the background without distractions like glare or shadows.
To change your Zoom background on desktop, navigate to the 'Background & Effects' tab in the Settings menu. You'll see a few default background options provided by Zoom.
You can either select one of these pre-set backgrounds or upload your own. To do this, click the + icon to upload an image or video from your computer. Just ensure the image is high quality to avoid pixelation.
Once you've selected a background, Zoom will automatically apply it. You can test it out in the preview window to ensure it looks good.
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5 Tests Before Call

Before you join a video call, it's a good idea to test your background to ensure it's clear, well-lit, and appropriate. This can be done using the preview feature on your video conferencing platform.
If your platform doesn't offer a preview, take a screenshot or selfie with your setup to get an idea of what your background looks like from your camera's perspective. This will help you identify if your background is too busy or if it dilutes your message.
You can also ask for feedback from a friend or colleague if you're unsure about your background choice. This will help you make the necessary changes before the call.
Here are some quick checks to do before the call:
- Is your background too busy?
- Does it dilute your message?
- Do you need to clean up your space, adjust your lighting, or change your backdrop?
Remember, a clear and well-lit background will help you make a good impression and ensure a smooth video call.
What Is the Photo's Image Size?
When choosing a photo for your Zoom background, consider the image size. The recommended resolution is 1920 x 1080 pixels.

This resolution ensures your background looks sharp and fits well without being distorted or pixelated. For optimal display, it's best to stick with this standard high-definition (HD) resolution.
If your image is too small, Zoom may stretch or shrink it to fit the video window, which can cause it to appear blurry or pixelated. A good rule of thumb is to use an image with a resolution of at least 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Here are some general guidelines for image sizes:
Remember, the aspect ratio of your image is also important. For a professional look, stick to a 16:9 ratio.
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