Let’s be real: we’ve all experienced the awkwardness of jumping on a Zoom call and realizing our background is a hot mess. Whether it's a pile of laundry, the neighbor’s dog doing zoomies, or an entire bookshelf that looks like it was hit by a tornado, we’ve all been there. But fear not! Designing a pretty Zoom background that makes you look polished and professional doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little planning, creativity, and style, you’ll be Zoom-ready in no time, impressing clients and colleagues with a background that reflects both your personality and professionalism.

1. Position Your Desk for Success

One of the simplest ways to instantly improve your Zoom background is to be mindful of your desk’s placement. Find a wall that’s relatively close to your desk—within about 10 feet—so your camera can focus on a clean, simple backdrop without capturing the entire room. This is a game-changer because it allows you to create a styled space without the pressure of making your entire home office look spotless for every call.

Before you settle on a desk position, try turning on your camera and see exactly what the camera will capture. You’ll be able to tell what’s in frame and where to start styling your background.

2. Choose a Focal Point

The key to a beautiful Zoom background is creating a focal point that anchors the scene. This could be a large, artfully arranged bookshelf, a stunning gallery wall, or even a bold wallpaper that brings personality to the room. The goal is to have one main feature that draws the eye and creates visual interest.

If you choose a bookshelf, for example, consider mixing books with decorative objects like candles, vases, or quirky trinkets. The idea is to blend practicality with beauty, and a carefully curated bookshelf will bring a level of sophistication to your Zoom calls. A well-chosen focal point adds balance to your space, ensuring that your background remains engaging without overwhelming the viewer.

3. Select the Right Colors for Your Zoom Background

When it comes to color, think about how you want to feel during your calls. Avoid overly busy or too many contrasting colors that could distract from your face on the screen. Subtle tones work best as they allow your personality to shine through without overwhelming your virtual space. Opting for soft, muted colors like pastel shades or earth tones can help create a calm and professional ambiance, making your background more visually appealing during Zoom calls. Additionally, coordinating your color choices with your overall office decor ensures a cohesive, polished look that enhances your professionalism.

Neutral Colors: Light greys, beige, or whites can create a soft and professional atmosphere, ensuring the focus remains on you.
Bold Accents: Consider incorporating accents of rich tones like navy, emerald green, or mustard yellow to add energy and personality.
Avoid Overcrowded Color Palettes: Too many clashing colors can be distracting. Stick to a cohesive palette to maintain a polished look.
Use Color to Set the Mood: Soft pastels evoke calmness, while deep jewel tones can convey confidence and strength.
Consider Your Clothing: Choose background colors that complement what you're wearing. This ensures you won't blend into the background or create an awkward contrast. For example, if you have a black computer chair, avoid wearing a black shirt, or you'll look like a floating head on camera. No background, no matter how well-designed, will save you from that! Keep your outfit in mind when planning your Zoom space to maintain a clear distinction between you and your surroundings.
Test on Camera: Colors can look different on a screen, so always check how your chosen hues appear on camera before committing to them.

4. Consider Anchor Furniture for Added Sophistication

While it’s not essential, an anchor piece of furniture can add a touch of sophistication to your background. Think of a sleek console table, a well-designed bookshelf, or even a chic sideboard. These pieces can serve as the perfect canvas for styling your Zoom background. Add a couple of framed photos or a small plant on top to inject personality into the space.

Opt for multi-functional furniture: A console table or sideboard doesn’t just look good on camera; it also adds storage and functionality to your workspace.
Choose minimalist designs: A simple, clean-lined piece will keep the focus on you while still enhancing the overall look of your background.
Ensure furniture complements your workspace layout: The anchor piece should enhance your overall design, not overcrowd the space or block natural light.
Use soft textures: Add a touch of comfort with soft furnishings, such as a textured throw or cushion on your sideboard, to make the space feel inviting without cluttering the frame.
Match your furniture to your personality: Whether you prefer modern, rustic, or bohemian, choose anchor furniture that reflects your personal style while keeping things professional.

5. Add Personality Through Accessories

Once you have your main piece of furniture and the focal point in place, it’s time to layer in personality! Styled vignettes are the secret to making your Zoom background feel lived-in and inviting.

Here are a few ideas:

Stack a few books with a decorative object like a vintage globe or a ceramic vase on top.
Place a beautiful potted plant next to your desk. It’s an instant way to introduce a splash of greenery, and plants have been proven to boost mood and productivity.
Add a bowl of fresh fruit or a small sculpture to bring texture and interest to the space.
Include framed artwork or personal photos that highlight your style—just make sure the frames are clean and organized.

6. Lighting is Key to a Professional Look

Good lighting is one of the most important aspects of any Zoom background, and it’s all about balance. Natural light is ideal, so if you have a window in your home office, make sure your desk is positioned to take advantage of it. This will ensure your face is well-lit, making you appear brighter and more professional.

If your space doesn’t have great natural light, consider investing in a ring light. These are affordable, easy to use, and can be placed on your desk or even clipped onto your computer. A ring light will illuminate your face evenly, eliminating shadows and creating a flattering glow that makes you look camera-ready every time.

7. Home Office Background Decor Do's and Don’ts

To help you create a beautiful Zoom background, here’s a quick list of dos and don’ts:

Do’s:

Keep your background tidy and simple. Avoid cluttered spaces that distract from the conversation.
Choose one focal point (bookshelf, art, or wallpaper) and style it with intention.
Use a mix of personal items and professional elements to create a welcoming yet polished space.
Experiment with lighting until you find what works best for you.

Don’ts:

Avoid having too many items on display that could clutter your Zoom frame.
Don’t rely on virtual backgrounds. They may be convenient, but they often look unrealistic and can sometimes cause tech issues.
Don’t forget to adjust your chair or desk height to ensure the camera captures you from a flattering angle.

8. More Tips to Perfect Your Zoom Background

Declutter: A clean space not only helps maintain focus but also reduces distractions.
Consistency: Keep a consistent theme for your Zoom background. If you’re working in a creative industry, let your background showcase your unique style.
Personalize: A personal touch, like a family photo or artwork, adds warmth and makes you approachable.

9. Final Touches: Always Be “Zoom Ready”

Remember, your Zoom background is a reflection of your personal style and professionalism. A few thoughtful touches can go a long way in making you look polished while still feeling comfortable in your space. Incorporate your personality, invest in quality accessories, and don’t be afraid to show off your unique style. With these tips, you’ll always be ready for your next Zoom call—whether it's a work meeting, client call, or virtual happy hour.

So go ahead—style that background like a pro, and let your virtual space shine just as brightly as you do!

How to Design a Professional and Stylish Zoom Background