Socially Distance Yourself Like A Boss With Zoom Virtual Backgrounds

I began working remotely last week as a result of the Coronavirus. This new reality had me wondering: how will it be perceived by my colleagues to be on video from inside my home? It just felt weird. With the millions of others now living in this ‘new normal,’ I was certain I wasn’t alone in my subtle insecurities. I’d already given up most of my privacy online. And now here I was inviting the world into my last vestige of personal space. As I quickly shoved pillows out of my laptop camera’s view, wondering if anyone noticed that I was taking this one from bed, It dawned on me that what people could see behind me mattered.

Well, it just so happens that the wonderful folks at Zoom have an innovative solution called “Virtual Background.” If you have the right system requirements, you can easily upload any background you want. I have to admit, it’s kinda magical. Suddenly, I’m taking meetings from the beach, pitching work from the Death Star, and video conferencing from a decidedly fancier bed (think: Buckingham Palace guest room). Clearly, no one will confuse my fabulous environs for reality, but it sure beats strategizing how to stage what’s behind me. Nor do I have to worry about if the walls of my mancave are NSFW.

More importantly, during a time when social distancing has foisted all manner of virtual houseguests, it’s great to know I can play Wizard of Oz and create the background reality of my choosing. I also realized that this is a great way to brand a videoconference. And I’ve already made a few of these nifty backdrops for my clients as a nice little value add.

Below are some of my personal favorites. Please feel free to download them.