If you’ve been spending as much time on Zoom or are longing for a change in scenery like we are, we suggest using these images from the APS Digital Library as virtual backgrounds. Download one or all of them! If you use them, let us know by grabbing a screenshot while using them and share with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Here’s some useful knowledge on how to apply these new backgrounds on your desktop Zoom app. For more specifics and information, we recommend following Zoom’s guidelines, here. If you’ve been having trouble using virtual backgrounds, the page might also be able to explain that.
Instructions:
Choose your preferred background below. Click on the image to download and save to your computer.
Open Zoom, log in, and navigate to account settings.
Select “Virtual Background” and then choose the “+” icon to add the desired image as a background option.
Note that this isn’t the only way! You can also add the backgrounds while in a meeting by opening your video settings. And, this isn’t the only way to get APS backgrounds! Again, explore our Digital Library for more inspiration.
Backgrounds
Philosophical Hall
APS Zoom Background
Philosophical Hall (lovingly abbreviated by staff to “Phil Hall”) has been home for the APS since 1790.
Reading Room, APS Library
APS Zoom Background
If you need a background that inspires quiet, diligent reading. The Reading Room in Library Hall is where researchers view the APS collections.
SE Corner, 3rd and Market
APS Zoom Background
One of many Thomas Birch prints showcasing Philadelphia in the late 1790’s.
Columbia University, Fly Room (1920’s)
APS Zoom Background
If you need a science background, we recommend this one! Or, if you’d like to have flashbacks to raising fruit flies during AP Bio. Either way, it’s a great choice.
Boating on the Schuylkill
APS Zoom Background
This oil painting by Thomas Birch shows a relaxing view of the Waterworks on the Schuylkill River (for those outside of Philadelphia, we pronounce that Skoo-kull).
Peale, West Point
APS Zoom Background
This watercolor by APS favorite, Charles Willson Peale, shows a “View of West Point from the side of the mountain.”
Waterworks, with bridge and building (1839)
APS Zoom Background
What can we say, staff still love this view. With Philly in peak spring, it’s nice to have a historic version of a view we crave. This chromolithograph is by James Charles Armytage.
For more downloadable Zoom backgrounds around the greater Philadelphia area — including some from our friends at Eastern State Penitentiary, Elfreth’s Alley, and the Liberty Bell — check out the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau's offerings.
Remember to let us know if you use any of these backgrounds by grabbing a screenshot while using them and share with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.