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How to Change Your Teams Or Zoom Background to RTA Solidarity

by | Sep 22, 2026 | solidarity | 0 comments

One easy way to show solidarity as we negotiate a successor contract is to change your Microsoft Teams or Zoom background. Follow these quick and easy steps.

Download one of the three backgrounds below:

How to Change Your Background in Microsoft Teams

Before joining a meeting

  1. Open Microsoft Teams and click the meeting you want to join.
  2. Click Join.
  3. On the preview screen, make sure your camera is turned on.
  4. Click Video effects and settings or Effects and avatars.
  5. Under Backgrounds, choose one of the available backgrounds.
  6. To use your own picture, click Add new or Add background.
  7. Find the picture on your computer and select it.
  8. Your new background should appear behind you.
  9. Click Join now.

If you’re already in a Teams meeting

  1. Click More (•••) in the meeting controls.
  2. Select Video effects and settings.
  3. Choose Backgrounds.
  4. Select a background, or choose Add new to upload your own picture.
  5. Click Apply.

How to Change Your Background in Zoom

Before joining a meeting

  1. Open the Zoom Workplace app.
  2. Click your profile picture in the upper-right corner.
  3. Select Settings.
  4. Click Background & effects.
  5. Under Virtual backgrounds, select one of Zoom’s backgrounds.
  6. To use your own picture, click the + button.
  7. Select Add Image.
  8. Find the picture on your computer and select it.
  9. Close Settings. Your background is ready for your next meeting.

If you’re already in a Zoom meeting

  1. Find the video/camera button at the bottom of the Zoom window.
  2. Click the arrow (^) next to the camera button.
  3. Select Choose Virtual Background or Adjust background & effects.
  4. Select an existing background.
  5. To add your own, click + → Add Image.
  6. Select the picture you want to use.
  7. Close the settings window and return to your meeting.

Quick tip for everyone

For the best results, sit somewhere with good lighting and avoid having a background behind you that’s the same color as your clothing. You do not need a green screen for normal Teams or Zoom backgrounds. If you create a background you would like to share please email: mlavonas@rochesterteachers.com