How to Add a Custom Background in Microsoft Teams

Learn how to add or change a custom virtual background image for a Microsoft Teams video call.

How to Add a Custom Background in Microsoft Teams
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With the increase in remote work, enterprise video conferencing services like Microsoft Teams and Zoom are more prevalent than ever. If you use Microsoft Teams, you have the option to add a virtual background to your video call.


What is a virtual background?

A virtual background is an image that you upload to Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Google Meet and serves as a backdrop on your video call. Most video conferencing platforms have a library of images for you to choose from or allow you to upload your own image. For your most important business meetings, you can even create a custom background that links to your digital business card.


Why should I use a virtual background in Microsoft Teams?

Custom virtual backgrounds are a great way to eliminate any background distractions during a video call. If you have kids or pets—or simply don’t want people to see the inside of your home—consider adding a virtual background to your next Microsoft Teams call. (Remember this viral clip? A custom background would have solved everything!)

How to download a virtual background for Microsoft Teams.

If you want to create a personalized background to use on Microsoft Teams includes your logo, name, title, company and a link to your digital business card—you can do so with  HiHello. Once downloaded, you can add your virtual background to Microsoft Teams by following the same steps shown above. Creating a HiHello virtual background for Microsoft Teams is simple. Log in to your HiHello account on the web and select a card and design from the Virtual Background tab, then download your background.

How do I add a custom virtual background in Microsoft Teams?

Once you download the Microsoft Teams web app, adding a virtual background to your video call is fairly straightforward. Once you’ve joined a meeting, the Background Filters settings allow you to select from existing backgrounds or Add New to upload your custom Teams background. 

Need help? Find step-by-step instructions in our Help Center.


Why is my Microsoft Teams background flipped?

Please note that sometimes Microsoft Teams has a mirroring effect—while your background may appear backwards to you, it will display correctly to everyone else on the call. If your entire background image isn’t showing or gets cropped, you may need to adjust the size of your window.

HiHello backgrounds also work on Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, and so much more. If you’re using a different virtual meeting or live-streaming platform, find instructions for creating and uploading your background in our Help Center.

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