How To Change Your Microsoft Teams Background Without Being in a Call or Meeting

You can change your Microsoft Teams virtual background before joining a meeting by opening the meeting preview screen, turning on your camera, and selecting Background settings. From there, you can choose one of Microsoft Teams’ preset backgrounds, blur your surroundings, or upload a custom background image.

Changing your background before a call is a helpful way to prepare a professional meeting environment without needing to adjust settings while the meeting is in progress.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• how to change your Microsoft Teams background before a meeting

• how to upload custom Teams background images

• how to change your background during a meeting

• how to fix common Microsoft Teams background issues

Why Change Your Microsoft Teams Background Before a Meeting?

Changing your Microsoft Teams background before a meeting begins helps ensure you appear professional and prepared when you join the call.

Many remote workers use Teams virtual backgrounds to eliminate distractions, protect their privacy, and create a consistent meeting environment.

Preparing your background ahead of time also prevents awkward delays at the start of a meeting while you adjust your camera settings.

Recommended Microsoft Teams Background Image Size

If you plan to upload a custom background image, using the correct dimensions helps ensure your background appears sharp and natural during video calls.

Recommended Microsoft Teams background specifications:

• Resolution: 1920 × 1080 pixels

• Aspect ratio: 16:9

• File types: JPG, PNG, or BMP

Using high-resolution images prevents pixelation and helps your virtual background appear more professional during meetings.

Steps To Changing Your Virtual Teams Background Before a Call

You can change your Microsoft Teams backgrounds before you join a call. First, go to the screen where you join the video. Turn the video on. Choose “Background settings” on the right-hand side of the screen.

You can either upload a background or choose an existing option. You can blur your background or select “None” to turn off your current background. Microsoft Teams will identify you and keep you situated in front of the virtual background you chose. This option will remain on your videoconferencing calls until you change it.

Steps To Changing Your Virtual Teams Background After a Call

When you finish with a call, you can change your Microsoft Teams background images the same way you did before your call began. However, you can also do that if you are on a call and want to change your background.

You will see three dots in the upper right-hand corner of your screen. Click on this button. Then, review your options until you find “Show background effects.” Go through each background option and hit “Preview” to test them. You can upload your preferred option or blur your background in this “Show background effects” area.

Once you click this button, search the options for the one you prefer. After you select the background you want, click “Apply.”

Steps to Changing Your Virtual Teams Background on Mobile

You can also change your Microsoft Team background if you have a meeting on your mobile device, such as your phone or tablet. Although the concept is the same, the steps are slightly different.

Changing Mobile Teams Background Before a Meeting

After you set up your meeting, you can get into the background options on your mobile device. At the top of your screen, you should see a button that says “Background Effects.” Click this. Then, you can choose a given image, upload one of your own, or simply blur the background.

To blur your current background, simply click “Blur.” To upload an image, click the plus sign. Then, choose an image that you find on your device. Then, click “Done.”

Changing Mobile Teams Background During a Meeting

If you are in a meeting and want to change your background, simply select your call controls or meeting. Then, click on “More Options.” Go to “Background Effects.” Then, upload your photo, choose an existing image, or blur your background. Click “Done.”

Troubleshooting Issues You Run Into

If you cannot change your background before or after your meeting starts, you may need to update your Microsoft Teams App or restart it or your computer.

Choose a high-quality JPG, PNG, or BMP file to select a custom background. Then, when you enter “Background settings,” click “+ Add New.” Search your computer for your image and click “Upload.” You can also find background images on the internet.

If you want to share your background with everyone on the call and you are the meeting host, go to “New Meeting Experience.” Build your audience list and select “Together Mode” after clicking the three dots at the top right-hand corner of your screen.

Now that you understand how to change your backgrounds, you can create different options for your call purposes, e.g., personal or professional. Test the process to modify your backgrounds before and during your meetings.

Best Professional Backgrounds for Microsoft Teams Meetings

Choosing the right background can instantly improve your appearance during virtual meetings.

Popular Microsoft Teams virtual background styles include:

• modern office environments

• conference room settings

• skyline office views

• minimalist professional workspaces

• creative studio environments

These styles help remote professionals maintain a polished and professional appearance during client meetings, presentations, and team calls.

Custom Virtual Office offers a wide range of professional Microsoft Teams virtual backgrounds designed specifically for Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet meetings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microsoft Teams Backgrounds

Can you change your Microsoft Teams background before joining a meeting?

Yes. When you reach the meeting preview screen, turn on your camera and select Background settings to choose or upload a background before entering the meeting.

How do I upload a custom background in Microsoft Teams?

Open Background settings, click Add New, and upload an image from your computer.

What size should a Microsoft Teams background be?

The recommended size is 1920 × 1080 pixels with a 16:9 aspect ratio.

Why can't I change my background in Microsoft Teams?

Your app may need to be updated, or your device may not meet Microsoft Teams system requirements for background effects.

Upgrade Your Microsoft Teams Meetings With Professional Backgrounds

Changing your Microsoft Teams background before a meeting is one of the easiest ways to create a professional virtual workspace. A clean, well-designed background can help eliminate distractions and improve your appearance during video calls.

Custom Virtual Office offers high-quality professional Microsoft Teams virtual backgrounds, including modern offices, skyline workspaces, and creative environments designed specifically for remote meetings.

Browse our collection of professional virtual office backgrounds to elevate your next Teams meeting.