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Microsoft Teams: Change video backgrounds

This article explains how to change your video background in Microsoft Teams. It covers how to use blur effects, select from pre-installed images, and upload custom backgrounds during a meeting.

Introduction

Microsoft Teams provides features to customize your video background during meetings. This functionality helps enhance privacy, reduce distractions, or add a professional touch to your meetings. Options include background blur, pre-installed images, and uploading your own custom images.


Step 1: Open a Meeting in Microsoft Teams

  1. Launch Microsoft Teams on your desktop or mobile device.
  2. Join an existing meeting or start a new one.
  3. Ensure your video camera is turned on for the background settings to be applied.

Step 2: Access the Background Effects Panel

  1. During the meeting, locate the More actions (•••) button on the meeting toolbar.
  2. Select Video effects and settings from the drop-down menu.

Video effects and settings option within the More options menu in Microsoft Teams


Step 3: Select a Background Option

Option 1: Blur Your Background
  1. In the background effects panel, select the Blur option.
    • This softly blurs your surroundings while keeping you in focus.
Option 2: Use Pre-installed Backgrounds
  1. Browse the list of available images displayed in the background effects panel.
  2. Select one of the pre-installed backgrounds and then Preview to preview it in your video feed.
Option 3: Upload a Custom Background
  1. To add your own image, click Add new at the top of the background effects panel.
  2. Select an image file from your computer (accepted formats: JPEG, PNG, or BMP).
  3. The uploaded image will appear in your background library for future use.

Backgorund options within Microsoft Teams meeting


Step 4: Apply the Selected Background

  1. Once satisfied with your background choice, click Apply and turn on video.
    • The selected background effect will now appear on your video feed during the meeting.

Preview and Apply Buttons within Teams Meeting background options


Troubleshooting Tips

  • Blur/Background Not Applying: Ensure your camera is enabled and functioning correctly.
  • Custom Image Not Uploading: Verify the file format (JPEG, PNG, or BMP) and size are supported.
  • Performance Issues: Using complex backgrounds may require additional processing power. Ensure your device meets Teams' system requirements.


Keywords:
Microsoft Teams video backgrounds virtual backgrounds blur background effects customize Teams video settings 
Doc ID:
104120
Owned by:
Jack B. in UW Stout
KnowledgeBase
Created:
2020-07-17
Updated:
2025-07-07
Sites:
UW Stout