Backgrounds do more for a presentation than almost anything else you can change. Four things matter: resolution, contrast, composition, and focus.
Size and resolution #
Use images of at least 1280 x 720 pixels at 72ppi or higher. Anything smaller or lower will look blurry once it fills the screen.
Contrast #
Pick a background that contrasts with your text. If the text and the background are close in shade or tone, it is hard on the eyes. The greater the contrast, the better.
Composition #
Text is far easier to read over empty space in a photo than over the subject. Choose images with room in them.
Focus #
If a slide carries a lot of text, or your message needs to be front and center, use a photo with a soft focus or a slight blur. A busy background pulls attention away from your point.
Background videos #
Movement holds attention. Anywhere you have text on screen for a while, or button choices waiting for the viewer to pick, a background video keeps the slide alive.
If your video is too large to upload, compress it first. freeconvert.com is one free option.
Tip: Our stock library has thousands of free images and videos built in, so you do not have to source or license anything separately. Search it from The Toolbar under Add Element.
