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How to Add a Background in the Microsoft Camera App
Question details
The user wants to know how to change, add, or blur the background while capturing video using the Microsoft Camera app.
- Product
- Microsoft Camera App
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Recording a video or taking a picture on a Windows device and wanting to apply custom background effects or a background blur.
- Observed behavior
- The native Microsoft Camera app does not feature any built-in settings or options to change or blur the background.
Determine whether you need to record a standalone video with a virtual background or simply join a video call, as different software alternatives handle background effects specifically for those distinct purposes.
Use a Third-Party Camera or Video Application
Since the default Microsoft Camera app lacks virtual background capabilities, using third-party software is the most effective way to add background effects to your local video recordings.
Many popular communication and broadcasting tools offer robust virtual background and blurring features that can be used to record videos locally on your computer.
Download and install a third-party application that supports background replacement or blurring, such as OBS Studio, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams.
Launch the application and navigate to the 'Settings' or 'Preferences' menu, then click on the 'Video' or 'Camera' tab.
Locate the 'Virtual Background', 'Background Effects', or 'Background Filters' option. Select the blur effect or upload a custom image to replace your current background.
Use the application's built-in 'Record' button to start capturing your video with the customized background applied.
Submit a Feature Request to Microsoft
If you strongly prefer using the native Microsoft Camera app, you can formally request that Microsoft add background features in future updates.
Enhance Your Daily Productivity with WPS Office
While you use alternative apps to manage your video recordings and camera backgrounds, you can streamline your document tasks with WPS Office. As a free and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, WPS Office delivers a familiar interface and robust tools for all your editing needs without burdening your PC.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and click 'Download WPS Office Free' to get the installer.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the quick on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
- 3. Open existing documents: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing .docx, .xlsx, or .pptx files to begin working immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't the Microsoft Camera app have a background blur feature?
Microsoft designed the native Camera app as a basic photo and video capture utility. Advanced video processing features like background blur are integrated into their dedicated communication software, such as Microsoft Teams and Skype, rather than the base OS camera tool.
How can I blur my background during a video meeting on Windows?
You can use the built-in background filters within your chosen video conferencing software. For example, in Microsoft Teams or Zoom, click on the video settings or background filters icon before or during the call to apply a blur effect or virtual background.
Can I use third-party camera software as my default webcam on Windows?
Yes. Software like OBS Studio can create a virtual webcam on your computer. Once the virtual camera is running with your custom background, you can select 'OBS Virtual Camera' from the camera drop-down menu in almost any other Windows application.
