How do you feel about Zoom virtual backgrounds?

Carolyn Fields

May 2,2020 at 9:29PM UTC

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As soon as I learned about Zoom backgrounds, I immediately put one up. I started with a "standard" background, and then added a personal picture.
I have noticed that very few people seem to be using them (at least in the Zoom meetings that I have attended). What's up with that? Is it a lack of knowledge (don't know how), a lack of motivation (not worth the effort), or do some people think that it's not "authentic" to have a virtual background?
For myself personally, I usually sit in front of cabinets and a countertop. It doesn't look bad, but it's not a traditional office setting, so I think to picture background is better. Do you suppose others might think I'm trying to hide something?

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AnonymousMay 6,2020 at 3:48PM UTC
I want to use one! My computer is just outdated and won't let me upload an image to use, lol
Tabbi KinionMay 10,2020 at 12:38PM UTC
I feel like Zoom backgrounds are weird and so distracting. From this side of the screen there is a digital outline around the person and when they turn sideways or move in certain ways entire parts of their body disappear. Which is fine if you are doing a fun hang-out chat. However, for a professional call it is unnecessarily distracting. Also, it makes me wonder what the person is hiding behind them that they feel like they want a fake background. Maybe this is all just me - but I have been spending 15-20 hours a week in video meetings over the past couple of months and this has become a pet peeve. I’d rather people sit in front of anything real rather than have a beach photo behind them.
Saidah AbdulhaqqMay 12,2020 at 2:38PM UTC
I have a variety of Zoom backgrounds that I make regular use of which include the Enterprise bridge, the Matrix green numbers, the Simpson's couch, etc. I started out with the fake office and aurora borealis, but they just weren't me. I only use them on calls where I know the teams well and know they would be appreciated... which is really all of my meetings. They make for good small talk while we wait for team members to arrive and others have used them to show their own characters.
Also, my office is in my bedroom, and quite near the master bath door. There is potentially a bit of foot traffic with 4 kids and husband who don't want to be on camera but need to come by.