How to use Zoom Video Backgrounds

Launched in early 2020, the ability to use videos as virtual backgrounds in Zoom is an extremely popular feature. Videos look far more realistic than images, so it’s easier than ever to make the right impression on your Zoom calls.

It’s not yet supported by all Zoom clients (for example, Linux users are currently missing out, and can only use images), and in some cases you may need a green screen in order to use video virtual backgrounds. Check support for your computer and operating system here.

This guide has been prepared using the Zoom client for Mac OS, but the instructions should also work well for Windows.

Without a green screen

1. Start a Zoom meeting. At the bottom left corner of the window, find the up arrow next to the video icon, click it, then click “Choose Virtual Background”
   

   

2. Find the plus icon on the right hand side, click it, then click “Add Video”. Note: if you don’t have the option to “Add Video”, please check the system requirements as you may need to use a green screen.
   

   

3. Find your desired video file from its download location, select it, then click “open”. Note: if Zoom tells you that the resolution of the video is too high, try selecting a lower resolution video instead.
   

   

4. The file should now be displayed in the list of options. Click to apply it as your new virtual background.
   

   

5. The video is now being used as your virtual background, and you can close the settings screen and return to your meeting. It will loop automatically, and will be used as your virtual background until you turn it off (by choosing the “None” option in the settings screen).

With a green screen

1. Start a Zoom meeting. At the bottom left corner of the window, find the up arrow next to the video icon, click it, then click “Choose Virtual Background”
   

   

2. Check the box that says “I have a green screen” at the bottom of the settings window
   

   

3. Select an image from the available options, for example, one of the default images provided by Zoom. On the preview window, you’ll now see an option to “Manually pick the color of the background if the detected color is not accurate”. Click the button to show the color picker.
   

   

4. Using your cursor, place the crosshairs icon in a suitable position on your green screen to choose the green color (or blue, if you’re using a blue screen)
   

   

5. You’re now ready to add your video. Find the plus icon on the right hand side, click it, then click “Add Video”. Note: if you don’t have the option to “Add Video”, please check the system requirements as your operating system may not support video virtual backgrounds yet.
   

   

6. Find your desired video file from its download location, select it, then click “open”. Note: if Zoom tells you that the resolution of the video is too high, try selecting a lower resolution video instead.
   

   

7. The file should now be displayed in the list of options. Click to apply it as your new virtual background.
   

   

8. The video is now being used as your virtual background, and you can close the settings screen and return to your meeting. It will loop automatically, and will be used as your virtual background until you turn it off (by choosing the “None” option in the settings screen).

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