📸 Virtual Background Ideas You Never Knew You Needed

The Case for adding Variety to your Video Calls

Hello, It’s Julia. Welcome to my weekly newsletter exploring the ways we communicate and connect at work and beyond. Today’s article is about brightening up your work day with virtual interior decorating.

Reminder: I’m seeking nominations for exceptional people at work for The Paper Plate Awards. Nominate now until Nov. 15th. 

---

I’m a super fan of virtual backgrounds — greenhouses, libraries or Italian balconies. But, I’ve noticed I’m often the only one with virtual decorations these days. So I wanted to share why I like to take my meetings surrounded by faux plants, books or vacation destinations.  

Backgrounds silently support community building in 5 key ways:

1. Add a dose of fun to your day … “How cute are those doodles?!”

2. Find shared connections … “You’ve been to that famous library behind me?!”

3. Share your story with participants … “Here’s where I recently went on vacation!”

4. Spark creativity for you and the callers … “I wonder where that bookcase leads.”  

5. Celebrate a special holiday or milestone … “Happy Diwali, Indian festival of lights!”

Inspiring Images

• Photography Websites: Choose from professional images on sites like Unsplash or Pexels

• Your Photos: Share what you’ve captured

• AI Images: Get creative with unique backgrounds

Here are my favorite background themes with sample photographs: 

📚 Libraries

Everyone loves a good book or shelves of them. Consider historic libraries from around the world, places you’ve been or aspire to visit. This may lead to exchanging book recommendations or starting a future work book club.

Photo by Jonathan Francisca on Unsplash

🌴 Travel

Choose a photograph from a recent vacation or your favorite destination. This sparks conversation about favorite places to visit and shares how you like to unwind.

Photo by Boris Baldinger on Unsplash

🪔 Holidays

Let participants know that a meaningful day is being celebrated in your tradition. The background will convey more about you and your culture.

🪔: Diwali Indian Festival of Light | 🎃: Halloween

🧶 Hobbies

Share your interests outside of work, whether it’s knitting or tennis, let your colleagues know more about your passions. You might find a future bandmate or a fellow pickleball partner.

Photo by June Gathercole on Unsplash

 🍜 Food

Share your recent baking or cooking adventures or your favorite snacks. This may lead to recipe exchanges or cooking classes at work.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

🐕 Pets

Introduce callers to your favorite furry friend, your pet or your favorite online pet-lebrity. Share favorite stories, memories and maybe even plan a Howl-a-day Pet Show.

🎡 Your Hometown

Show off your local coffee shop or town square to share your roots with people. Let colleagues know about what matters to you locally.

What are your favorite virtual backgrounds for video calls? 

Cast your vote or comment below with your suggestions.

---

Thanks for tuning into this edition of The Switchboard. Let me know if this article resonated — give it a heart, comment below or share it on LinkedIn. Signing off. — Julia