How to Use Backgrounds in Microsoft Teams

Why Use Backgrounds?

Video backgrounds help you:

• Look professional regardless of your surroundings
• Hide messy home offices
• Add some fun to casual calls
• Maintain privacy

Changing Your Background Before a Meeting

Step 1: Join with Video Settings

• Click to join a meeting
• Before joining, look for Background effects
• Click it (usually below your video preview)

Step 2: Choose a Background

Options include:

• Blur - Blurs your real background
• Built-in images - Microsoft's default backgrounds
• Custom images - Your own uploaded images

Step 3: Apply and Join

• Click on your chosen background
• See the preview to make sure it looks good
• Click Join now

Changing Background During a Meeting

Step 1: Access Settings

• During the meeting, click the three dots (...)
• Click Video effects or Background effects

Step 2: Select New Background

• Choose a new background
• Click Apply

Your background changes immediately.

Adding Custom Backgrounds

Step 1: Find the Backgrounds Folder

On Windows:

• Press Windows + R
• Type: %appdata%\Microsoft\Teams\Backgrounds\Uploads
• Press Enter

On Mac: Go to: ~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/Teams/Backgrounds/Uploads

Step 2: Add Your Images

• Copy image files to this folder
• Images should be at least 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Use .jpg, .png, or .bmp formats

Step 3: Use Your Background

Open background settings in Teams - your custom images appear alongside the defaults.

Tips for Good Backgrounds

Do:

• Use professional or neutral images
• Ensure good contrast with your face
• Check how it looks before important meetings
• Keep your face well-lit

Don't:

• Use busy or distracting images
• Use copyrighted images for work
• Use backgrounds that blend with your clothing
• Use them in very formal external meetings (unless appropriate)

Blur Background

For simplicity, blur is often the best choice:

• Works in any lighting
• Always looks professional
• No need to choose an image
• Less likely to distract others

Troubleshooting

Background not working?

• Check your Teams version is up to date
• Ensure your computer meets minimum requirements
• Some older devices don't support background effects

Need Help?

For Teams video help, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.