Instantly update your home decor with these free video chat backgrounds

With many people now entering their second month of working from home, you’re probably getting better at finding the best angle to aim your camera for all those virtual work meetings/family catch ups/happy hours via video chat. But sitting in front of a blank wall can be less than inspiring, while if you aim the camera elsewhere, you run the risk of showing off that pile of washing, the never-ending clutter, or the dirty cups and plates you keep meaning to take to the sink. Some even less lucky people have had semi-clothed family members make a cameo appearance in the background.

But there’s an easier way to spruce up your space (and block out unwanted background intruders) by only lifting one finger - the one you control your mouse with. Programs like Skype, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams all have the option to choose your own background, so a whole range of companies have released free backgrounds to help us all get through the pandemic (a quick Google can show you how to change your background on your chosen app). Instantly update your home decor by downloading one of these free video chat backgrounds:

West Elm

Wish your home was a little bit less Weston Creek, and a bit more West Elm? You can make your home look like something straight out of the stylish American furniture, homewares and home decor store thanks to their range of free video conference backgrounds. From a brassy, light-filled Brooklyn pad, to a mid-century living room, or even the Fab 5’s loft from Queen Eye, they’ve got a background to suit your mood.

Modsy

Want to dial in from somewhere a bit famous? Interior design startup Modsy has released a range of video chat backgrounds inspired by pop culture-famous homes. You could move into Monica Geller’s rent-controlled New York apartment, Frasier Crane’s Seattle pad, Jerry Seinfeld’s apartment, Carrie Bradshaw’s stylish abode, or even living rooms inspired by Gilmore Girls and Golden Girls. Check them all out here.

Dream getaways

You may not be able to physically travel to a dream holiday home right now but you can still look like you’re visiting one, without even packing your bags. Airbnb homes can virtually transport you there with their selection of free backgrounds of places you’d rather be, from a real-life Balian treehouse to a calming oceanfront cottage in Havana.

Superheroes and other galaxies

Are you calling in from a galaxy far, far away? Or want to look like you’re attending your next meeting seated in the driver’s seat of The Millennium Falcon? You could very well be, with these free Star Wars backgrounds. If enchanted forests and magical places are more your thing, you could go with one of these free backgrounds released by Disney or these from Pixar. While Disneyland itself is closed, you can look like you’re there with these. And Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli, known for stunning movies like Spirited Away, has also released 12 backgrounds.

Canva

Feeling a bit creative? Make your own background on Canva. The online design program has released a range of free video chat background templates, which you can use as is or customise yourself - and some are even animated! For real pandemic-vibes, try their very cute toilet paper themed background.

Free Stock Image Sites

For even more choice, try a free stock image site like Pexels, Unsplash or Kaboompics. They not only have hundreds of options of stylishly designed interiors to choose from, but pictures of just about anything. So you could be calling in from a tropical beach, inside a museum, sitting on top of a mountain - you’re really limited only by your search terms.