How to Change your Background in Microsoft Teams

Background effects reduce distractions and protect privacy. Most issues occur when Effects and avatars is missing or when custom images are blocked by policy.

Before you start

• Desktop app recommended; mobile supports blur and select images.
• IT policy may restrict custom backgrounds.
• Good lighting helps the effect look natural.
• Presenting content? Review how to share your screen in Teams and consider Do Not Disturb to hide pop-ups.

1) Change background before you join (desktop/web)

1. Select Join on your meeting.
2. On the pre-join screen, select Effects and avatars (or Background filters).
3. Choose Blur, pick a built-in image, or select Add new to upload your own.
4. Select Join now.
   Note: Custom uploads may be disabled by your org.

2) Change background during a meeting (desktop/web)

1. On the meeting toolbar, select More (… ) → Effects and avatars.
2. Choose Blur, Replace background, or Add new.
3. Select Apply.
   Pro tip: Use Reset to return to your real background.

3) Use background effects on mobile

1. Join the meeting → tap More (⋯) → Background effects.
2. Choose Blur or a built-in image → Done.

4) Tips for the best result

• Keep your face well lit and your background less cluttered.
• Avoid clothing that matches your wall color.
• Sit centered so the effect doesn’t crop you.

Troubleshooting

• No background options: Update the desktop app or switch to the new Teams; your org may restrict the feature.
• Upload blocked: Custom images can be disabled—use built-ins or ask IT.
• Choppy edges: Improve lighting, move farther from the camera, or close heavy apps.
• Background resets every call: Re-apply and sign out/in to refresh cached settings.

Related how-tos

• Present like a pro: share your screen in Teams.
• Organize people first, then meet: create a group in Microsoft Teams.
• Stepping away? set out of office in Teams.
• Comparing tools? See Teams Free vs Slack.

Summary

1. Open Effects and avatars on pre-join or during the meeting.
2. Select Blur or Replace background; Add new for custom images.
3. Apply, and Reset when you’re done.

Conclusion

Choose blur for quick privacy or replace the background for a branded look. If options are missing or greyed out, update the app or check with IT about policy limits. For better meetings overall, combine background effects with clean sharing (share your screen) and clear comms (set out of office).