Enable and Apply a Virtual Background

The virtual background feature allows you to display an image or video as your background during a Zoom meeting, which can provide you with more privacy or a consistent and professional look for a presentation.

Depending on the device you are using, you can use the virtual background feature with or without the use of a green screen behind you, with the system requirements being higher for virtual background use without a green screen. Visit the Zoom support page Changing your Virtual Background image (opens in a new tab) and find the section about recommended setup with a green screen for more details.

If you don't have your own images or videos for use as a virtual background, you can simply blur the background instead. Visit Using blurred background (opens in a new tab) for more details.

Prerequisites and System Requirements

There are two prerequisites you must meet to be able to use the virtual background feature.

• Your computer or device meets the system requirements for Virtual Background (opens in a new tab).
• The Virtual Background feature must be enabled for use on your account.

Enable Virtual Background

To enable the virtual background feature for your own use:

Step 1

Within a web browser, navigate and sign in to the University of Arizona Zoom web portal (opens in a new tab).

Step 2

Select Settings from the navigation menu.

Step 3

Within the Meeting tab, navigate to the Virtual Background option (under the In Meeting (Advanced) section) and verify that the setting is enabled. If the setting is disabled, select the status toggle to enable it.

Apply a Virtual Background for Windows | macOS

Step 1

Sign in to the Zoom client. Instructions at Sign in to the Zoom client.

Step 2

Select your profile picture, then select the Settings.

Step 3

Select Background & Effects.

Step 4

Check I have a green screen if you have a physical green screen set up. You can then select on your video to choose the correct color for the green screen.

Step 5

Select an image or video to choose the desired virtual background.

(Optional) Add your own image by selecting the Add image or video button and choosing the image or video you have saved to your device.

If prompted, select Download to download the package for virtual background without a green screen.

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