How to use a virtual background in a Zoom on a computer
Zoom program provides an interesting function «Virtual background». It places the speaking person in the video on some picture or video, replacing the real environment (room in an apartment, studio, etc.). Moreover, it is available to all users for free, without purchasing any subscription. You just need to figure out how to change the background in Zoom on a computer.
Customization
Enabling this option will take several steps:
- Join any meetings or create your own.
- Click on the «arrow» next to the icon to enable and disable the camera.
- In the menu that opens, click on the item «Choose Virtual…».
As a result, the settings window will appear. In the lower part of it, there are several designs, the upper row is static pictures, and the lower one is with video. Choose one of the options provided.
Since the built-in library is very limited, you can use your own design, and not only a picture, but also a video. Click on the highlighted «plus» sign, select one of the options, and then in Explorer, choose the desired media file.
If you have a green screen (chroma key), then enable the corresponding option in the settings.
The background capture may not be performed correctly. In this case, help the program:
- Click on the marked icon:
- In the webcam preview window, click on the background area.
- Repeat the procedure if necessary.
This feature is also available in the mobile application. To set it up, use our instructions.
Activation for organizer
If this function is absent or does not work in the conference itself, then, most likely, it is disabled in the settings of the organizer. Turn it on as follows:
- Follow the link https://zoom.us/signin.
- Sign in with the host account.
- Open the «Settings» tab from the left menu.
- Find the item of the same name on the new page.
- Activate it by moving the slider to the right with a mouse click.
- Close the settings tab.
Now restart the meeting, the function should work correctly.
Requirements
The virtual background for Zoom can be used on any computer and laptop where the latest version of the program is installed. But it should be understood that the function will work correctly only with a simple «backdrop». When in addition to the user there is some «complex» environment in the frame, for example, a cupboard with dishes or books, then it will not work to replace it with something else. Rather, it will work, but the result will look very incomprehensible, to put it mildly.
The function will work much better with a «simple» background, and ideally with a green screen. Of course, as an alternative, you can use plain wallpaper or curtains, next to which you can sit.