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Because downloading on our website is very simple. Click on the background designs that you like the most, select the design and download your free zip file. You will instantly have the file with 4 different backgrounds in your possession and you will be using your new design in your PPT or Google Slides presentation.

It’s that simple, you avoid having to open a heavy design program and create a ppt background that takes hours of work. That is over, thanks to our website you can download quickly and easily, just as we like it.

Plus, we have background designs in different colors and styles: formal, colorful, fun, pastel, themed, tech, and more. All in HD quality to enhance your presentation. You can also use them as wallpaper for your desktop PC and create a cohesive atmosphere ideal for your presentation.

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In this page, you will find lots of backgrounds for ppt slides. Powerpoint templates are available for download and the designs come in many different styles, colors and layouts.

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In addition to backgrounds for PPT slides, we have templates:

Professional multicolor pastel marketing plan theme.

Professional Soft Gradient Green Theme for Business

Minimalist Aesthetic Slideshow in Nice Pastel Colors

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Need PowerPoint Backgrounds? The Best Places to Check Out [+ Freebies]

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By Lyudmil Enchev

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Having more than 500 million users and being used for an estimated 30 million presentations per day (an amazing 350 presentations per second are started worldwide), PowerPoint , it is no exaggeration to say is a phenomenon. It’s easy to use, a staple in meetings, conferences, classrooms, and now of course for online learning, and completely accessible.

However, familiarity often breeds complacency. Now very long ago, a PowerPoint presentation on its own made a change from long-winded speeches and was enough to motivate an audience. Now, it’s so commonplace you have to think of ways to make your PowerPoint slideshow memorable,  to stand out from the crowd, hold the attention, and capture the imagination and interest of an audience. It’s not easy and there are no guarantees but one quick and easy way to complement your content is using backgrounds .

You’ll be surpassed at the difference they make, and how much a little extra effort and attention to detail can succeed in making your PowerPoint presentation deliver on the day. We’ve put together this complete and comprehensive guide to PowerPoint background, taking you on a tour of sources, creation, and tips alongside practical advice.

In this article: 1. How to import backgrounds into PowerPoint? 2. Places to Find Free PowerPoint Backgrounds 2.1. Free sources 2.2. Premium sources 3. How to make a background on your own 4. Useful Tips When Using PowerPoint Backgrounds

1. How to Import Backgrounds into PowerPoint?

Once you got a background saved, you’re going to need to get it onto the PowerPoint presentation show itself. You can either apply a template to a pre-created slideshow or if this is recommended, start with the template and add to it (from scratch or copy items from your previous creation)  It’s quite easy to do, so let’s look at a break down of the steps.

Let’s imagine you’ve already downloaded and saved a background image onto your computer.

Step 1:  Start PowerPoint, click on File and select New. This will open a series of preinstalled PowerPoint templates and themes options. Step 2:  Click on open. Step 3:  Locate your saved background file, double click to open it, and there you have it.

To add an existing presentation to your new background simply copy and paste.

2. Where to Find Free PowerPoint Backgrounds?

There are many sources for free PowerPoint background and a search on the net will bring up a huge selection. You could spend time trawling through the masses, and sometimes only to find a hidden catch, but we’ve provided you with some of the best free source sites around.

2.1. Free Sources

2.1.1. freepik.

A great and plentiful resource (nearly 1 million images) for any art from vectors and photos but also including PowerPoint backgrounds and other templates. For the free downloads, and there are many to choose from, you will need to attribute the original author. There is information on what exactly is required when you click on your desired background. There are also Premium (no attribution choices). Freepik’s filters (photos, colors, style, etc.) can save you browsing time by taking you straight to the area of interest. Usefully, when you click on a choice you also get recommendations of similar backgrounds so you can expand your search.

2.1.2. Vecteezy

Another huge resource is Vecteezy, with over 1 million images, and 161,787 royalty-free vector graphics and clipart matching PowerPoint backgrounds. You can need to sign up (it’s free but not obligatory) and there are paid versions of varying price structures that offer greater choice and no attribution. If you want free source backgrounds then you’ll need to attribute the author, following the instructions given on each clip. Vecteezy will ease you through the process of choosing by using their comprehensive search filters.

2.1.3. Unsplash

Unsplash is a resource site dedicated to high-quality photographic images. It’s already enormous, with well over a million images and it is growing with photographers from all over the world contributing, so if you are looking for realistic images for your presentation background Unsplash is a great place to start. It’s completely free with no attribution necessary. It really is just a case of finding what you are looking for (filtering through a free search than a series of options) and then clicking the free download button. Save it, then copy it to your PowerPoint slideshow.

2.1.4. Pixabay

Free source website Pixabay shares nearly 2 million photos, illustrations, vector graphics, film footage, and music. Whilst there are only 13 images directly for PowerPoint background that shouldn’t limit you. There is absolutely no reason why you can’t download something without the tag and simply use it on your show. There’s no attribution required and you are free to use it for all purposes. Great filters make finding something suitable a breeze, then it a just a matter of downloading, saving, and using. You also get download pixel size options, which is useful.

2.1.5. PPTbackgrounds

For specific PowerPoint backgrounds, there is a great free site called ppt backgrounds. A fine collection of 2200 free backgrounds for all your presentation needs, suitable for any situation. You can browse categories and search through or use the search bar, so life is easy. Open the image you want, click to open, right-click,  download, and save the image. A really cool feature is each image has color variations, so you can keep a theme but differentiate key slides, areas, or show progress. Click on the colors scale for the Presentation tab.

2.1.6. Free-power-point-templates

Free PowerPoint templates, tell you what it is. Over 12,000 free PowerPoint templates and a whole category on backgrounds. Each modern, trendy template gives specific information and ideas for use, which is handy. You’ve got plenty of scope for browsing and it’s all completely free with no attribution required.

Take a look at GraphicMama’s article  56 Impressive Free Presentation Backgrounds for Outstanding Presentations

2.2. Premium Resources

While it is true that there is a great free source of PowerPoint backgrounds, other templates, and other images that you can use, it must be noted that there are Premium sources that often offer you higher quality, unique options that you can use to really impress your audience.

2.2.1. GraphicMama

As a source for premium design images, Graphic Mama offers a great range of cool and stylish resources for all digital design needs. One category of design is background design bundles and background graphic makers that will help you create outstanding designs. These vector-based backgrounds are prepared on different themes: room interiors, offices, landscapes, abstract, nature, parties, Halloween, Christmas, and more. a bundled theme containing a huge number and variation of choices and styles is available from $32 and includes free updates as the bundles develop over time, so you are never behind the trend. And as they are vector illustrations you won’t lose any quality when you resize, which adds to the versatility, you can use these for printed materials, posters, etc.

Here are some bundles from GraphicMama to whet your appetite.

120 Room Backgrounds Vector Collection

120 rooms of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Using a simple and attractive cartoon style that will add context and entertainment to your presentation whilst not distracting from the content. No limit on usage, so free to do as you please, you also get further updates as and when they come on board.

• Includes 10 high-quality Free Room Interior backgrounds for you to try out.

Vector Backgrounds – Mega Bundle

An enormous bundle of over 240 widely colorful designs on different themes such as Interiors, landscapes, seasons, or even abstract patterns. Truly something for every occasion and all with bright, bold, confident designs that will make your PowerPoint presentation memorable and outstanding.

• Includes 12 high-quality Free landscape backgrounds for you to try out.

1000+ Seamless Pattern Designs Mega Bundle (15 Free Sample Patterns)

• Includes 15 high-quality Free pattern designs for you to try out.

Abstract Backgrounds – Mega Bundle Collection

The backgrounds are ideal for PowerPoint and Google Slides presentations.

2.2.2. ShutterStock.com

Another supplier of premium resources is Shutterstock, with either subscription-based options from $49 per month (10 images) or on-demand packs again from $49 – you can take the opportunity of a 30-day free trial.  Shutterstock has an enormous number of stock images (326 million) and nearly 12,000 specific PowerPoint backgrounds. They have an amazingly precise filter system (color, age, ethnicity, size, categories, etc) so you are guaranteed to find something that fits your theme.

2.2.3. iStockPhoto.com

iStockPhoto sell images and illustration through a subscription or credit-based system. 3 credits are $24 or subscribe from 470 per month, (prices increase depending on the number of images per month). they have a nice range and selection of high quality despite the cost. There are the usual filters to help refine your search and there is an online editor so you can customize your images before purchase.

3. How to Make a Background on Your Own?

despite the number of ready-made options, either free or premium some people still prefer to create their background themselves. we can’t fault you for wanting to be creative, especially if you’ve got the time. So, here are some software options that allow you to get your ideas down.

3.1. Adobe Spark

Adobe design app Spark doesn’t limit itself to presentation backgrounds, allowing you to create social media posts and videos and a whole range of other design options from 12 Euros a month for individuals (first 2 months free). Ideal for creatives   who need something quick and without a great deal of customization, with a series of very impressive professional templates. It’s probably better for social media posts than PowerPoint backgrounds but it could be worth checking out.

3.2. Pixteller

An image and animation maker that can be used for lots of design purposes. It is easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of technical know-how or ability, just some creative thinking. There are templates, ready-made animations, stock photos, and shapes all ready for you to bring together for your concept design. There are 2 paid options pro from $9 per month (graphics)and Diamond from $19 per month (graphics plus animation tool).

A free photo editing platform (you can upgrade to paid pro version) that also works as a design creator. Selecting on wallpaper brings uploads of wallpaper templates, it doesn’t sound so DIY yet. Here’s where you get creative, you can edit the templates with images, and texts. It gives you a base to work with and then lets you go out on your own.

Visme is a data presentation and visualization tool which aims to help transform your ideas into visually appealing presentations and infographics. The basic plan is free for individuals (up to 5 projects) and paid plans start at $14 per month.  A number of high-quality presentation templates, mix and match possibilities, infographic options, and wallpaper options are perfect for creating backgrounds. Get creative using the design tools available and put together something unique and stunning.

4. Useful Tips When Using PowerPoint Backgrounds

Tip 1: modify to make your text pop.

Generally in PowerPoint Presentations, the rule of thumb is to keep text to a minimum, no full sentences, keywords only, and good organization. (don’t read out the slides, please -it’s a guaranteed turn-off). the slides support the speaker, they don’t replace the speaker. With this in mind, when you do use text, let’s make sure it is noticeable. Think of the size, font, typography, color, and style. Don’t go funky just for the sake of it. the style needs to fit with your context, fonts leave subliminal messages (strong and sturdy, trustworthy, professional, creative, imaginative, classy) think carefully about what you are trying to achieve and what message you are trying to get across.

Tip 2: Don’t use too vivid backgrounds

Everybody knows a little about color theory and colors are important. A vivid background color that overly distracts from the main content has done exactly the wrong job. A background adds to the content and works with it -it’s not a battle. A general rule is that cooler colors (blues/greens) often work well for the background, providing a setting for the main information to come alive. Vary colors by all means, but don’t go too bright or too wild, it makes people feel uncomfortable. And remember your content needs to shine through from the background and stand tall – don’t clash.

Tip 3: Think about the audience

Always think of your audience. One of the great things about PowerPoint presentations is that they can easily be customized and edited so use the chance. A great successful presentation that worked in the past is no guarantee of success the next time around. Things change, trends change, styles change and your audience changes too. Examples should be up-to-date and relevant, as should images. People are more and more familiar with presentations these days, they recognize a bog-standard PowerPoint and equally, they recognize something, that has a bit more care and attention.

Tip 4: Think about Branding

Backgrounds are ideal to transmit the idea of your brand. At the simplest level, colors and logos are a must. Consistency in slides and regularly placed branding will leave the audience with a memory imprint. Personalized photographic images where appropriate can also work well in creating a sense of realism and trust -it all goes to build that vital image connection for the listener.

Tip 5: Never forget the author’s rights

I mean – if you are using some free backgrounds, don’t forget to check out the conditions and license types. Some backgrounds need attribution and there is a specific process. Adding a final slide mentioning the authors of the images, or writing them down on the corner of the slides, not only covers you legally but it shows the audience that you are aware of the professional standards and norms to be adhered to. You are a trustworthy, honorable speaker, who is prepared to give credit where it is earned. Nice touch.

Final Words

Let’s make this point again. PowerPoint presentations are so, so common that in order to raise the stakes, we need to make a little more effort. Stand on the shoulders of the familiar presentation and push it forwards. Backgrounds aren’t so difficult but they can make an enormous difference to the overall view of your presentation. They don’t need to take you forever to create, they are a simple, easy, and often free way of creating a lasting impression.

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Lyudmil Enchev

Lyudmil is an avid movie fan which influences his passion for video editing. You will often see him making animations and video tutorials for GraphicMama. Lyudmil is also passionate for photography, video making, and writing scripts.

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Blog Graphic Design 15 Presentation Background Examples & Templates to Keep Your Audience Awake

15 Presentation Background Examples & Templates to Keep Your Audience Awake

Written by: Ryan McCready Jul 07, 2023

Backgrounds are the foundation for creating an engaging presentation .

A great background can elevate your visual content and help it reach millions of people. But a bad background will make the whole project fall apart.

This is especially true when it comes to presentation backgrounds.

Most of the time, the reader is only going to see the background image once. But with presentations, it’s a whole different story.

Depending on how long your presentation is, that background could be seen 25, 50 or even 100 times!

In fact, according to a recent presentation design statistics study we did, the majority of keynote speakers said their biggest challenge was formatting their slides to keep readers engaged.

So you need to pick something that won’t distract or bore your audience.

Sometimes that’s a very tricky line to walk, but fear not–I have a ton of experience picking the perfect presentation background!

I’ve rounded up 15 great presentation templates to help you pick the ideal background for your presentation. Keep reading to learn how you can pick the perfect background and ace your next presentation!

1. Open Computer Screen Presentation Background

I’m a huge fan of using mockups in my content and design work. If you check out Venngage’s  Gallery , you will see that it’s full of professional poster and flyer mockups.

These mockups are extremely useful because you can instantly place the reader in your shoes. Readers will see a computer screen,  flyer  or another object like it’s sitting right in front of them.

This presentation background example is a simple mockup that almost anyone can use. It would work perfectly as a business background for many purposes beyond presentations too. Check out how the designer used it in the title slide below:

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2. Zen Garden Presentation Background Image

Plants have been very popular for the past couple of years. If you have ever been in a new trendy restaurant, you definitely know what I’m talking about.

This simple background has the same feel as one of those hip establishments.

This background also embodies the colorful minimalism trend that is blowing up this year. In this case, a simple colorful subject dominates the graphic, but it still feels very light and airy.

And best of all, you can easily use a few different plant background images throughout the presentation. Take a look at how the designer used similar images to create a consistent design:

3. Simple Dot Pattern Background Image

Sometimes you want a presentation background that gives your slides a little bit of texture, without being distracting. I believe that this presentation background embodies that idea pretty well.

It is just interesting enough to catch your eye, but not pull your attention away from what the presenter is talking about.

As you can see in the presentation example below, each slide feels like it has real depth as well. Almost like the icons and information are jumping off the page:

4. Crumpled Paper Presentation Background Image

Realistic flat images always make superb background images, in my opinion. I like to use them when I want to create a minimalist graphic or add something extra to a slide.  

The flat textures and patterns on this simple background are extremely flexible as well!

Like a blank canvas, you can create almost any kind of presentation on top of this background image. It can be used to improve an art lecture, a business meeting or a recycling presentation:

With a simple color filter you can make the background image match your company branding as well:

Check out our presentation design guide . It includes a ton more presentation design hacks like this one.

5. Colorful Circles Presentation Background Image

Looking for a way to add a little color to your presentation? This background may be perfect for you!

It has a ton of white space for you to add content or headers to the slide. And the colorful circles make the presentation seem fun and light.

I would recommend using this background for a presentation that you want to keep casual and fun.

For example, the designers used this background as a title and conclusion slide for a social media presentation:

Remember to pick a color palette that reflects the mood of your presentation.

6. Bold Red Arrow Presentation Background

I would recommend finding a background before you start designing your presentation. This way you can create the slides around the background image.

With the right background image, you can give your slides structure and direction. Or at least improve the layout of your presentation .

Check out how the designers used this background image to improve the slides. The arrow of the background image perfectly fits the topic of the presentation.

And because it’s used on the title slide, it will put the audience in the right headspace from the beginning.

7. Split Slide Presentation Background Example 

This example is one presentation background that everyone has probably used a few times. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was part of the first presentation software ever.

It may be extremely simple, but it’s just as effective all these years later. That’s because you can use this on any presentation topic or in any industry. Get your message across in a simple but powerful way with these simple presentations templates .

This ease of use and flexibility will help you create a killer presentation in no time. Take a look at how it was used throughout the slides below:

8. Subtle White Grid Presentation Background

Like the white paper example above, this image will give your presentation background a lot of subtle depth. It’s engaging enough to grab someone’s attention, but not enough to distract from the written content.

I really like how the texture differs from one square to the next. It makes the whole image a lot more interesting to the eye.

Plus the white color palette will make it easy to place text, graphs or charts directly on top of it. This will ensure that your presentation isn’t cluttered or messy. Take a look at how it’s used in the presentation example below:

9. Purple Gradient Presentation Background Image 

If you haven’t heard, gradients are super popular and will be for the next few years. No, we haven’t gone back in time to the 1990’s — gradients are really back.

Gradients make great background images because they are unique and futuristic. If you want to stand out from the crowd, this background is perfect! Plus these color transitions look spectacular on HD screens and social media.

As you can see below, the white text and icons really jump off the page when placed on top of a gradient:

And you can make a gradient out of literally any combination of colors that you want:

10. Flat Typographic Background Image

Typography is a key part of effective design.

I really like this background image because it will add a lot of character to a slide or presentation. The subtle shadows and highlights actually make this black and white photo seem colorful as well.

A background image like this is very versatile because you can use a few different color palettes with it. Not many colors are going to clash with that monochrome photo.

And if you use a vivid color palette, which is very trendy this year, the colors will very eye-catching. Take a look at how great the different palettes look below:

11. Checkerboard Texture Presentation Background

If you are tired of using a flat background image, but not ready for something too flashy, this background texture is perfect for you!

As you can see, it uses the classic checkerboard pattern to break up the background layer. However, because the pattern is also flat, it won’t distract from your presentation content.

I would recommend using this pattern to add a clear visual break between sections, kinda like they did in the slides below:

Presentation slides play a crucial role in creating an engaging presentation. Browse our selection of engaging presentation templates to enhance your message and make it easier for your audience to understand and remember key points.

12. Geometric Pattern Presentation Background Image

This is one of the most interesting background images in the entire roundup, in my opinion. The bold colors and creative patterns will make the whole presentation feel extra exciting.

Another great feature of this background is that it can be used with a ton of different palettes. Go ahead, pick a color from the geometric pattern, and then use it throughout your slides.

13. Flat Creative Presentation Background Image Example 

Set the tone for your creative presentation from the start with this trendy background image. If you weren’t aware, succulents and plants are very trendy this year in creative circles.

The open section at the top of this background is the perfect spot to add a header or title as well. Check out how they used it in the title slide below:

Plus the bold colors of this image help you pick the color palettes of the other slides:

For more captivating presentation ideas , check out our selection of creative presentation templates .

14. Arrows Everywhere Subtle Background Texture 

A simple background like this can add some serious depth to your presentation. Or blog post.

With a myriad of textures, directions and sizes, the triangles will effortlessly draw the eye. I would recommend using this background in a tech and marketing presentation.

Also, you should try to stick to a geometric or minimalist theme for your slide. In the example below, they choose to use other simple shapes and it blends together extremely well:

15. City Skyline Background Image Example

Finding a subtle background image is hard, especially if you want to use a stock photo . A lot of the time they divert attention from the content on the screen.

Or, even worse, they don’t match your presentation’s color palette and theme. This city background is ideal because it has such a neutral color palette. Take a look at how well it matches the other slides below:

You can also use a color filter to make it a little less distracting and match your presentation theme:

City landscapes can be versatile and work well with a variety of presentation topics, especially with business presentations. Have a presentation coming up? Check out our gallery of pitch deck templates to deliver the perfect presentation.

Create an engaging presentation

Now that you made it to the end of our presentation background roundup, I would recommend checking out our collection of simple backgrounds :

35+ Simple Background Images, Templates & Design Tips

And if you want to learn more about using stock photos , read this first:

10 Simple Ways to Incorporate Stock Photos Into Your Designs

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Add a background picture to slides

You can use a picture as the background for a slide or slides.

You can adjust the picture's transparency after you add it to the slide.

Insert a background picture on a slide

Right-click the margin of the slide and then select Format Background .

In the Format Background pane, choose Picture or texture fill .

Under Insert picture from , choose where to get the picture from:

To adjust the picture's relative lightness, slide the Transparency bar to the right.

To apply the background picture to all slides in your presentation, choose Apply to All . Otherwise, simply close the Format Background pane.

Remove a background picture

In Normal view, select a slide that has the background pattern or picture you want to remove.

On the Design tab of the toolbar ribbon, in the Customize group at the far right end, select Format Background .

In the Format Background pane, under Fill , select Solid Fill .

Select the down arrow next to the Color button. A gallery of colors appears. Select the white color.

Your current background is removed, and the background of the slide is now white.

If you want to make the same change to the other slides in the presentation, choose Apply to All at the bottom of the Format Background pane.

Add a video to the background of your slides

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50 Best Presentation Background Templates & Examples in 2024

Written by: Orana Velarde

Looking for the best presentation backgrounds to make your slides look professional and engaging?

When making presentations, one of the most important goals is to keep your audience engaged. The way you design your slides should pique their curiosity.

Make a great first impression by choosing creative background images. Your content deserves to look beautiful and there’s no better way than with a great-looking backdrop.

We’ve put together an extensive collection of beautiful presentation background templates that you can edit and download. Most of these are available inside the Visme editor.

Here’s a short selection of 8 easy-to-edit presentation templates you can edit, share and download with Visme. View more templates below:

1 Pattern Background With a Color Overlay

There are lots of photographable objects and sections of architecture that can resemble patterns. For example, concrete slabs with holes, corrugated iron, or paneling. Add a strong color overlay with a little transparency and you’ve got a versatile presentation background.

2 Minimal Background With an Object

Bright and strong color backgrounds look better with a contrasting object placed on them. Try and use an image with an object that makes sense with the content. The object will be very prominent so try covering it up on some slides to cut through the repetition.

3 White Background With a Black Detail

White or light-colored backgrounds with a bit of texture will always be a clean and elegant option for a presentation background. Choose an image that has a small black detail and let it tell a story on its own. Subtle but interesting focal points are memorable.

4 Fullscreen Cityscape Background

Use a high-quality image of a city skyline with some sky for a visual that expands towards the horizon. Perfect for a business profile of a company based in a busy city. Better if you use a photo of the actual city where the company is located. Overlay semi-transparent boxes for the content.

5 Brick Wall Texture Background

An image that could look imposing or strong can be turned into a subtle background. Use a transparency effect and overlay a color that matches the content’s color theme. A brick wall works great with this technique.

6 Color-Coordinated Background

Color coordinate the content according to the background photo or vice versa. Preferably, use a photo that has some empty space where you can overlay content. Also, make sure the photograph matches the topic of your presentation.

7 Paint on Canvas Background

A detailed photo of paint on canvas can give your presentation an artistic feel without defining it as an “art presentation.” Use contrasting colors for the content and create a visually rich design.

8 Minimal Landscape Background

Landscape photos of dunes with a cloudless gradient sky work great as a presentation background. It is simple, clean, and not visually overwhelming. Works great for any type of presentation.

9 Macro Photography Background

A dark and moody background works great with a bright color theme. Try macro photos of charcoal, dark metals, black sand, etc. The best contrasting colors for the content are oranges, yellows, and teal. Neon colors will also look amazing.

10 Artistic Marbled Background

Marble presentation backgrounds have been a favorite for a while. But why not shake it up and use a colored marble effect instead of the classic grey. Slides can also have the texture as a shape with a clean background for some interesting contrast.

11 Light Background With a Creative Border

Use a photograph of a light surface that includes a creative border for added visual attention. The border can be made of literally anything. Better to choose a border that matches what your content is about.

12 Monotone Detail Background

Monotone presentation backgrounds can be subtle or eye-catching. Choose one with an empty area where to overlay titles and other content. Use a contrasting color design, so if the photo is light and subtle use strong colors. If the background has a darker monotone, use bright colors for the content.

13 Clouds in the Sky Background

Clouds can give a feeling of peace if they are wispy and soft. For another visual effect, use chunky cotton style clouds or even a storm cluster. Give your presentation some personality with a sky full of clouds.

14 Moon Phases With a Black Background

Try a moon phase photo on a stark black background for an interesting design. Space-related presentation backgrounds are always visually appealing and interesting. They might not be suitable for some topics but will look great on science-related presentations.

15 Architecture Presentation Background

The beauty of architecture is that it can be photographed in a way which turns it into something else. A photo of a futuristic building against the sky will make a great background for many types of presentations. Like other presentation background ideas, try using one which has plenty of empty space to place content over.

16 Moving City Lights Background

City lights with a moved camera effect can look really interesting as a presentation background. From artistic circular movements to time-lapse traffic shots, there are different styles. Use this background for any presentation which needs to be a bit disruptive.

17 Leafy Background Image

Leafy, edge-to-edge shots are great for any type of presentation that needs some peaceful and inspiring scenery. It will keep your audience’s attention because it doesn’t distract. You can choose up-close shots of vegetation or drone shots of forest tops--both will make for a great presentation background.

18 Neon Lights Background

Use a dark background with a bright, shiny neon word or illustration for a fun and eye-catching design. Best to use a photo that has the neon only in a section of the photo so that you can put the content in the empty areas. There are lots of photographs of quotes in neon which you can use as a presentation background.

19 Vintage Item Background

Similar to the idea of a light background with a focal point, you can do the same but with a vintage object instead. Old computers, dial-up phones, vintage furniture, anything is possible really. Try and use a photo with enough empty space to put the content over.

20 White Brick Wall Background

A white brick wall can work for any type of presentation. It’s subtle, clean, non-distracting and looks great with content of any color. For a more creative approach, make your content look like it’s hanging on the wall, as a poster or corkboard. This style of background gives way to a lot of imagination.

21 Colorful Graffiti Background

Presentations about fashion or creative marketing can benefit from a background as busy as colored smoke and graffiti. It might not work for all slides as a full-screen image, but it’s perfect for title images and transitions.

22 Two-Tone Background Image

A photograph of something that isn’t immediately recognizable can be used as a texture background. For example, this two-tone photo of a concrete pool edge makes for a really interesting visual. The title can be laid over the water and a visual graph on the concrete.

23 Water Texture Background

Water photography is serene, calm, and neutral. You can use a photo of moving water, a wave, a splash, or a river flowing over rocks. A watery presentation background will give your presentation a sense of flow and continuity. You can even use the water to give the content direction like a leading line.

24 Colorful Bokeh Background

Bokeh is a photography technique which turns regular lights into shiny orbs. With an easy trick, the bokeh can be turned into different shapes like hearts or diamonds. You can use close up bokeh or a more expansive design with tiny bokeh.

25 Industrial Presentation Background

Industrial photography can be quite versatile as a presentation background. From metalworks to machinery details, choose an interesting industrial detail and add a bit of transparency. Select a color theme that will match your content and will create balance instead of competing with it.

26 Wood Paneling Background

Wood paneling is not a new idea for a presentation background, but using a two-tone design can be quite interesting for lots of types of presentations. It can be in bright colors like pink or green, and on a different note it can also be in gray tones for a more subtle background.

27 Black and White Background

This technique for a presentation background leans on the elegant side. A stark black background will always look great with light-colored content on top. An added delicate visual in a light color will give the entire thing a calm and elegant feel.

28 Snowy Mountain Background

A mountain range image is perfect for a travel-related blog or a camping gear startup, or maybe just for a sales update that wants to look better than the one next door. Snowy peaks are subliminally inspirational and dreamy, they make the viewer simply feel good about life. If the angle is more like a bird’s eye view then it can make the audience feel like they are flying.

29 Sand Dunes Background

Sandy dunes are a great way to add some serenity to your presentation. Choose one without rocks for a totally calming visual. Natural sands come in lots of different tonalities so choose the one that matches your content best. From white Caribbean sands to orange Saharan sands to black volcanic sands.

30 Light Watercolor Background

Watercolor backgrounds are light and airy and should not compete with the content at all. The idea behind this type of presentation background is to let your viewers relax and ease into the content. Select colors that are calm and light, you can use up to three colors that don’t clash with each other or the content.

31 Fun Illustration Background

Colorful and bubbly presentation backgrounds are trending right now. Not only for presentations but also for web and print design. It’s fun, it’s happy and will make your viewers feel good. Keep the content in the empty areas and use the different elements of the illustration for decoration on the rest of the slides.

32 Sunburst Illustration Background

A sunburst illustration behind the content can really call attention to a specific area of a presentation slide. It can be bright and colorful like a sunset, or subtle like a sunrise. The sunrays can be realistic or more like comic book style.

33 Colorful Paper Background

Cut paper background designs can be used in many different ways. As a frame, on half the slide, three sides of the slide or on an edge of the content. You can use different colors, a monotone theme or different paper textures. Color-coordinate the paper with the content for a unified design.

34 Subtle Arrow Background

Subtle illustrative presentation backgrounds are great because they can be used on every slide without them being overwhelming. A monotone, subtle white arrow background looks great behind any type of content, no matter the topic. The direction of the arrows can be upwards, downwards or any side as long as it looks good.

35 Futuristic Presentation Background

Futuristic backgrounds can be of different styles: electronic, cosmic, or virtual reality. They might not work for any type of presentation but they will look great for a topic that matches a futuristic theme. School science projects or gaming pitch presentations could look great with a background like this.

36 Leafy Plant Background

Leaves or plant details over a pink or pastel wall are cool, clean and modern. This presentation background is perfect for feminine fashion ideas or a visual slide deck for a lifestyle blog post. What’s so great about this design is that there is always plenty of space for the content.

37 Geometric Dots Background

Expansive designs like a geometrically scattered dot spread look great on any type of presentation. The colors can be in any combination, according to the style of the content or the color theme of the brand. Dots and circles are innately calming, and can easily be used on every single slide.

38 Mandala Pattern Background

Keeping things calm in a presentation background is easy with a neutral mandala design in soft tones like gray or other light colors. Use this style for presentations with an important inspirational message or educational and wellness content. Add a color overlay if you want to add some visual importance to the background.

39 Abstract Shapes Background

Abstract illustration backgrounds are best used when they are noticeable but not overpowering. There needs to be a balance in the style of illustration for it to match the content that will be placed on top. Try using monotone designs, or sticking to a particular shape.

40 Illustrated Clouds Background

Fun and quirky presentation backgrounds are great for pitching a new kid’s fashion line or decor brand. Cute, bouncy clouds over a violet sky will give your slides a lovely, calming feeling. Use contrasting colors for the content so that it doesn’t get lost in the clouds.

41 Colorful Dots Background

Dotted seamless patterns are nice and simple as a presentation background. They can be perfectly aligned and all the same size or a more scattered variation with dots of different sizes. The colors can be chosen to match the content or as a complement.

42 Electric Rain Background

Dark presentation backgrounds with bright details come in different styles, but this specific visual which looks like electric rain is very unique. It will look really interesting in a presentation about technology, artificial intelligence and science.

43 Artistic Feathers Background

Feminine, whimsical and subdued, this style of background can be a good complement to a presentation about a women’s fashion label, a wellness studio or other creative pursuits. The soft quality of feathers and transparent leaves won’t compete with content and will give the audience a relaxed and happy feel.

44 Dusty Blackboard Background

A dusty blackboard is easily the most versatile presentation background ever. Pretty much any content can be laid on top and it will look great. The obvious use for a blackboard is an educational topic but that doesn’t need to limit your imagination at all. Blackboards are also used in bars and bistros to display the menus. Don’t be afraid to break the mold.

45 Swirling Smoke Background

Disruptive backgrounds like colorful swirly smoke can work well for presentations that want to make an impact. A strong, colorful background like this will make slides memorable and stand out from the rest. The colors can be chosen to match the brand or the theme of the content.

46 Diagonal Lines Background

Lines will always be an elegant choice for a background design. Giving it an uneven diagonal aspect can add just enough personality for it be impactful without overshadowing the content. Choose colors that complement the palette of your content and use the empty areas for overlaying graphs and information.

47 Scattered Pixels Background

Colorful backgrounds are common in presentation slides. A pixel style scattered dots design is visually appealing and fun to look at. It’s almost hypnotic, the way the dots scatter across the dark backdrop. The content on top would need to be framed so that it doesn’t get lost between the dots.

48 Gradient Waves Background

Gradient waves are subtle and beautiful and can impart some peace to any presentation. It will keep your audience in tranquil concentration as long as the color gradient follows a subtle palette. The waves can be small or large, stormy or calm, round or peaky.

49 Geometric Polygons Background

A bright and geometric polygonal design works well in any color palette. The idea is to have a dark area and a light area, so the gradient moves along the polygons across the board. The content can go on any section of the background, dark or light, depending on how the content is colored. The combination should have contrast and visual impact.

50 Electric Circuits Background

Electric and technologically inspired backgrounds look great on presentations in the scientific and futuristic fields. It can be an illustrative electric circuit or the inside of a computer, as long as the design is bright and shiny, it will not disappoint. Use colorful frames to place the content on top so that it stands out and complements.

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Unlike PowerPoint and other presentation tools, Visme lets you create professional presentations online in your browser, without the need to download any software.

You can also access millions of background images, icons, shapes, illustrations, animations, special effects, music tracks and more right from inside the editor.

Sign up for a free Visme account today to create your presentation!

Any particular presentation background you'd like to see added to the Visme editor? If so, just drop us a line in the comments section below and we'll pass it along to our team.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below, we have answered some some commonly asked questions about presentation backgrounds and presentation design in general.

Q1. What is a presentation background?

Backgrounds are the foundation upon which you lay the visual elements of your presentation slides. Presentation backgrounds can be solid colors, textures and patterns, gradients and even photos with effects and overlays on top.

A good presentation background can make your slides look more engaging, attractive and easy-to-read. A bad presentation background, however, can easily ruin the impact of your presentation.

Q2. How do you make a background for a presentation?

You can make a background for your presentation using a solid color, gradient, texture, pattern or image. Enhance your background by adding shapes and color overlays on top.

In Visme, you can add any type of background to your presentation using the built-in image library that offers millions of photos, patterns and textures. You can also choose to keep a solid color or gradient background for your presentation.

Q3. What background is best for a PowerPoint presentation?

A blue background is most commonly used in presentation slides.

According to color psychology, blue exudes feelings of trust, calm and professionalism. It also helps create contrast between the elements on top of the background, which makes blue backgrounds a popular choice among business presenters and trainers.

Q4. What is the best color for a presentation?

The best color for a presentation depends on your presentation topic, your audience and the nature of your content. For backgrounds, most presenters and trainers recommend using blue or white.

Q5. What makes a powerful presentation?

A powerful presentation is memorable and engaging. It also motivates the audience to take action based on the message of your presentation.

You can make your presentation powerful by adopting techniques like eye contact, storytelling, movement, using visual aids, animated slides and more.

Q6. Which background color is best for the eyes?

Black text on a white background is best for the eyes as it forms good contrast between the text and the background color. Another reason is that the color white reflects every wavelength in the spectrum.

Q7. What color attracts the human eye most?

Green is one of the most eye-catching colors. Studies have shown that the human eye is most sensitive to light at the wavelength of bright green. Yellow is also an attractive color for the human eye, which is why it's used widely for road signs all over the world.

Q8. What is the best presentation software?

Visme is the best presentation software for both beginners and experts.

With Visme, you can create a professional and polished presentation in minutes using dozens of templates, built-in graphics, free images, animations, interactivity and other features.

Create beautiful presentations faster with Visme.

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About the Author

Orana is a multi-faceted creative. She is a content writer, artist, and designer. She travels the world with her family and is currently in Istanbul. Find out more about her work at oranavelarde.com

30+ Presentation Background Images for PowerPoint

Download these free presentation background images and use them in PowerPoint, Google Slides or any other presentation software.  If you need a presentation background design for your projects, check out this list. There are lots of presentation background themes, so you will for sure find what you need.  The PowerPoint presentation background themes are different in style, color and design.

To find the best background pictures for presentation is not an easy task. You have to choose from thousands of images.

Below you have some good examples of background pictures to use in presentations.

• Business presentation background
• Modern presentation background
• Cool presentation background
• Technology presentation background
• Corporate presentation background
• Science presentation background
• Math presentation background
• Music presentation background
• Black presentation background

In this list of background images, you will find the best background for presentation. These professional presentation background images are easy to integrate in your design. So, let's check out our PowerPoint PPT background images HD quality.

Slide Background Image

Slide Background Image by Pixabay

Modern presentation template

Modern presentation template by mockofun

Space Presentation Background

Space Presentation Background by Unsplash

Simple Presentation Background

Simple Presentation Background by Pixabay

Free Presentation Background

Free Presentation Background by Pixabay

Space Backgrounds

Space Backgrounds by textures4photoshop

Cool Background for Presentation

Cool Background for Presentation by Unsplash

Simple Background for Presentation

Simple Background for Presentation by Unsplash

Good Background for Presentation

Good Background for Presentation by Unsplash

PowerPoint Title Slide

PowerPoint Title Slide by mockofun

Colorful Background for Powerpoint Presentation

Colorful Background for Powerpoint Presentation by textures4photoshop

Business Presentation Background

Business Presentation Background by freepik

Best Background for Presentation

Best Background for Presentation by freepik

Fun PowerPoint Presentation

Fun PowerPoint Presentation by freepik

Cute PowerPoint Background

Cute PowerPoint Background by freepik

Powerpoint Background for Teachers

Powerpoint Background for Teachers by mockofun

Chalkboard Presentation Template

Chalkboard Presentation Template by textures4photoshop

Triangles Background

Triangles Background by Pixabay

Low Poly Background

Low Poly Background by textures4photoshop

Music Presentation Background

Music Presentation Background by mockofun

Cool Background for Google Slides

Cool Background for Google Slides by mockofun

Science Presentation Background

Science Presentation Background by Pixabay

Medical Presentation Background

Medical Presentation Background by freepik

Blue Presentation Background

Blue Presentation Background by Pixabay

Green Background for Presentation

Green Background for Presentation by Pixabay

Eco Green Presentation Background

Eco Green Presentation Background by Pixabay

Black Presentation Background

Black Presentation Background by Pixabay

Technology Presentation Background

Technology Presentation Background by textures4photoshop

Vintage Background for Presentation

Vintage Background for Presentation by textures4photoshop

Food Presentation Background

Food Presentation Background by textures4photoshop

Presentation Background Design

Presentation Background Design by Pixabay

Modern Background for Presentation

Modern Background for Presentation by Pixabay

I hope you enjoyed this list of background images for PPT presentation and background images for Google Slides.

As you can see there are lots of stock image websites where you can find a free presentation background.

But, if you did not find what you were looking for, you can create your own background image online. The presentation background pictures are usually very simple with a clean design.

Create a Presentation Background Online

Use this free online graphic design software .

Make a New document and input the Custom Size according to your presentation size.

Set the color of the Background . You can also choose a pattern from the list.

Next, go to Elements > Shapes > Geometric and create a background design. Add different geometric shapes like squares, circles, triangles, etc.

Choose a Color that you like or add a Gradient . You can also add layer styles like Stroke outline and Shadow effect.

Optional, you can add text like presentation title for example. Choose a text effect and a font type that you like from the Text menu.

Download the result as JPG or even PPT for Powerpoint.

How to Add Background Image in PowerPoint

• Select the slide you want to add a background picture to.
• Select Design > Format Background.
• In the Format Background pane, select Picture or texture fill.
• Select File.
• In the Insert Picture dialog box, choose the picture you want to use and then select Insert.

People use ppt background images and other visual elements to make the presentation more interesting and captivating for their audience.

How to Put a Background on Google Slides

• Open a presentation in Google Slides.
• Choose a Slide.
• At the top, click Slide > Change background.
• Click on the Choose Image button.
• Choose an image, then click Select.
• To add the slide background image to only one slide, click Done.
• To add the image to the whole presentation, click Add to theme.

In Conclusion

The presentation backgrounds are useful in building your brand imagery along with other graphic elements. If you want to sell your work read our article on how to make money as a graphic designer online.

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If you can't find the slide background that you’re looking for in PowerPoint’s presentation library, you can use any image of your own choosing. PowerPoint makes this possible in just a few simple steps. Here’s how.

A word of caution before you begin. The image you select will be stretched to fit the slide size. If you use an image that’s too small, the image will be distorted when used as the background. Be sure to pick an image that works. High-resolution images work best.

When you’re ready, open the PowerPoint presentation that you would like to add a background image to. Once open, head over to the “Design” tab.

In the “Customize” group, select the “Format Background" button.

The “Format Background” pane will appear on the right-hand side of the window. Here, select “Picture Or Texture Fill” from the “Fill” group.

Once selected, more options will appear below. Under “Picture Source”, select the “Insert” button.

The “Insert Pictures” window will appear, presenting three different options for inserting an image .

Related: How to Get a Picture Behind Text in PowerPoint

Selecting this option will bring up File Explorer (Finder for Mac). Here, navigate to the location of the image you’d like to insert, select it, and then click the “Insert” button.

Selecting this option will bring up an online image search powered by Bing. Enter the type of image you’d like to locate in the search bar, or select a topic beneath the search bar to open a library of related images.

Whichever method you choose, locate and select the desired image and click “Insert”.

Selecting this option will bring up the “Insert Icons” window, showing a large library of available icons. Select the icon you’d like to use as the background and click “Insert”.

Regardless of which method you used to locate the image, once you’ve selected “Insert”, the image will appear in the background of your presentation.

As you can see, the image we selected makes it pretty difficult to see the text in our slide. To fix this, adjust the “Transparency” slider until the image works well with the text. You can also fine-tune the percentage (by 1% increments) by clicking the up and down arrow to the right of the slider.

The end result should leave your slide looking much better.

Finally, it’s important to note that inserting the background image only takes place on the selected slide.

If you’re wanting to reflect these changes to the entire slideshow, select the “Apply To All” option at the bottom of the “Format Background” pane.

Once selected, you’ll notice the background has been applied to all slides in the presentation.

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Google Slides

How to Change Background on Google Slides?

Table of Contents

Creating a presentation involves more than just the content you share. It’s also about how you present that information in a way that’s engaging and easy to follow. Visually appealing slides can hold your audience’s attention and make your message more memorable. One simple yet effective way to achieve this is by customizing the backgrounds of your slides in Google Slides.

This article will take you through the two main options for customizing backgrounds: using solid colors or adding images. We’ll cover the steps involved in each approach and offer some tips to help you choose the right background for your presentation.

How to Change Background Color on Google Slides?

Looking to give your slides a fresh look? You can easily modify the background color in Google Slides to match your presentation’s theme or style. Here’s how:

• Navigate to the Background Menu: Start by clicking on the “Slide” menu in the toolbar at the top of your screen. From the dropdown menu, select “Change background.”
• Pick Your Color: A window with background options will appear. You’ll see a palette of pre-selected colors. Take your pick and click on the desired color to apply it to your slide.
• Single Slide: If you want this color change for just the current slide, simply click the button labeled “Done.” This finalizes the change and keeps the other slides untouched.
• Entire Presentation: If you prefer the new color for all your slides, click “Add to theme” first. This incorporates the color as part of your presentation theme. Then, click “Done” to confirm the change for all slides.

Bonus Tip: Adding Your Own Color

The pre-selected colors might not always be exactly what you have in mind. Don’t worry, you can create a custom color to match your specific needs:

• Click on the “Custom” option located beneath the “Color” section.
• You’ll be presented with options to choose a color using a hex code (for advanced users) or by manually adjusting the hue and transparency sliders.
• Once you’ve created your perfect shade, click “OK” to confirm your custom color selection.

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How to Change Background Image on Google Slides?

Customizing the background of your slides can add a unique touch and enhance your presentation’s visual appeal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to replace the default background with an image:

• Accessing the Background Menu: Begin by selecting the slide you want to modify. Navigate to the top menu bar and click on “Slide” A dropdown menu will appear. Locate the option labeled “Change background” and click on it. This opens the background formatting options.
• Choosing Your Image: Under the “Image” section, you’ll see a button labeled “Choose image.” Click on this button to reveal a selection of options for where your background image can come from.
• Upload from Computer: This allows you to choose an image file stored on your device.
• Using Webcam (if available): If your computer has a webcam, you can capture a live image to use as the background.
• Select from Google Drive: If you have a suitable image saved on your Google Drive, you can select it directly from there.
• Insert from a URL (ensure copyright compliance): You can insert an image from a web address.
• Important Note: Make sure the image you choose allows for this type of use. It’s always best to check copyright restrictions before using someone else’s work.
• Apply to Current Slide: If you only want to change the background for the selected slide, click the button labeled “Done.” This will set the chosen image as the background for that specific slide only.
• Apply to Entire Presentation: If you want the chosen image as the background for all your slides, click on the button labeled “Add to theme.”  This will incorporate the image into your presentation theme, making it the default background for all slides. After clicking “Add to theme,” confirm the change by clicking “Done.”

Additional Tips:

• Choosing the Right Background: Consider the topic of your presentation, your audience, and the overall visual style you’re aiming for when selecting a background image.
• Maintaining Readability: Ensure the text and other content on your slides remain clear and easy to read against the chosen background. You might need to adjust the text color or use transparent backgrounds for images if necessary.
• Finding Background Images: There are many websites offering free stock photos that you can use for your presentations. Be sure to choose a reputable website that offers images with appropriate licenses.

Closing Thoughts

Customizing backgrounds in Google Slides is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your presentation’s visual impact. Whether you prefer a clean, solid color or an illustrative image, Google Slides offers you the flexibility to choose the background that best complements your content and grabs your audience’s attention.

Remember to consider readability and copyright restrictions when selecting your background. With these tips in mind, you can easily add a touch of personalization and professionalism to your presentations.

• No design skills required
• 3 presentations/month free
• Don’t need to learn a new software

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i change the background of just one slide in my presentation.

Absolutely! You can customize the background for a single slide with either a solid color or an image. Just follow the usual instructions, but instead of finalizing with “Apply to theme” (which would change all slides), click “Done” to apply the background only to the current slide.

How can I quickly update the theme for all my slides?

Instead of customizing each slide background individually, you can use themes! Themes provide pre-designed layouts, fonts, and backgrounds for your entire presentation. Here’s how to switch themes:

• Click on the “Slide” tab in the top menu bar.
• Select “Change Theme” from the dropdown menu.
• Browse the available themes and choose one that complements your presentation’s content and style. The chosen theme’s background will automatically be applied to all your slides.

Where can I find free images for my presentation backgrounds?

There are many websites offering free stock photos perfect for presentations. Simply search online for “Royalty Free Images” and choose a trusted website with a large library of high-quality, copyright-free images. Remember to always check the website’s licensing information before using any images to ensure proper usage rights.

Related Posts

How to Change the Opacity of Shape in Google Slides?

Shapes are a versatile tool in Google Slides, allowing you to create visuals, diagrams, and callouts to enhance your presentations. But sometimes, a completely solid shape might overpower the background content or text. Here’s where adjusting the opacity of your shape comes in. By making your shape partially transparent, you can achieve a more layered and visually appealing presentation.

How to Bring an Image Forward in Google Slides

Pictures can be a great way to get your point across in a presentation. If you’re using Google Slides, a popular tool for making presentations, you can change how pictures are layered on top of each other. This can be helpful if you want one picture to stand out more than the others. This guide will show you the easy steps to do this in Google Slides. Without waiting further, let’s jump right into it. 

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Tim Walz's military record: What to know about potential VP's National Guard service

Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday, choosing a progressive yet plain-spoken VP candidate from America’s heartland to help her win over rural, white voters.

“I’m pleased to share that I’ve made my decision: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will join our campaign as my running mate,” Harris said via text to supporters. “Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families. I know that he will bring that same principled leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president.”

We look at Walz, a 60-year-old U.S. Army National Guard veteran, and his military career over the years.

More: Tim Walz is Kamala Harris' VP pick: Minnesota governor named running mate: Live updates

How long was Walz in the military?

Walz served in the military for 24 years, enlisting in the Nebraska National Guard at 17 in 1981 and then transferring to the Minnesota National Guard in 1996. He retired in 2005 to begin his successful run for the U.S. House, representing Minnesota as command sergeant major, among the highest ranks for enlisted soldiers. His battalion went on to deploy to Iraq shortly after Walz's retirement.

Walz specialized in heavy artillery and had proficiency ribbons in sharpshooting and hand grenades.

But during the 21 years that Walz spent working with large artillery pieces, he suffered hearing loss and tinnitus in both ears, Minnesota Public Radio reported. He was allowed to continue his service after undergoing surgery, which partially resolved his hearing loss.

Where did Walz serve, and what did he do in the National Guard?

During his service, Walz responded to natural disasters, including floods and tornadoes in Minnesota and Nebraska, and was deployed overseas for months at a time, according to MPR.

In 2003, he was sent to Italy, where he served with the European Security Force to support the war in Afghanistan. He was also stationed in Norway for joint training with other NATO militaries.

Walz told MPR that he reenlisted in the National Guard after the September 11 attacks but never saw active combat in his years in the military.

Stars and Stripes reported in 2020 that Walz credited his Army experience with helping him steer Minnesota through the COVID-19 pandemic as governor.

As governor of Minnesota, Walz is commander in chief of the 13,000-soldier Minnesota National Guard. “I’m certainly proud of my military service, but it’s one piece of me,” he told Minnesota Public Radio in 2018. “It doesn’t define me.”

Reuters and USA TODAY reporter Tom Vanden Brook contributed to this story.

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Five things to know about Tim Walz

On Tuesday, Vice President Kamala Harris decided on Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate in her bid for the White House.

Minnesota voters gathered outside Governor Tim Walz’s residence react as Walz was announced as the running mate of Kamala Harris in the U.S. presidential election. (AP Video by Mark Vancleave)

Vice President Kamala Harris has picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate, turning to a Midwestern governor, military veteran and union supporter who helped enact an ambitious Democratic agenda for his state.

FILE - Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, right, laughs as he stands with Fridley, Minn., Mayor Scott Lund during a visit to the Cummins Power Generation Facility in Fridley, Minn., Monday, April 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

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FILE - Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz applauds as President Joe Biden speaks at Dutch Creek Farms in Northfield, Minn., Nov. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)

FILE - Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz listens after meeting with President Joe Biden, July 3, 2024, at the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks during a news conference for the Biden-Harris campaign discussing the Project 2025 plan during the third day of the 2024 Republican National Convention near the Fiserv Forum, Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Joe Lamberti)

FILE - Minnesota Governor Tim Walz greets reporters before Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at Planned Parenthood, March 14, 2024, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Adam Bettcher, File)

FILE - Rep. Betty McCullum, D-Minn., left, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, listen as Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at Planned Parenthood, March 14, 2024, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Adam Bettcher, File)

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MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris has decided on Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate in her bid for the White House. The 60-year-old Democrat and military veteran rose to the forefront with a series of plain-spoken television appearances in the days after President Joe Biden decided not to seek a second term. He has made his state a bastion of liberal policy and, this year, one of the few states to protect fans buying tickets online for Taylor Swift concerts and other live events.

Some things to know about Walz:

Walz comes from rural America

It would be hard to find a more vivid representative of the American heartland than Walz. Born in West Point, Nebraska, a community of about 3,500 people northwest of Omaha, Walz joined the Army National Guard and became a teacher in Nebraska.

He and his wife moved to Mankato in southern Minnesota in the 1990s. That’s where he taught social studies and coached football at Mankato West High School, including for the 1999 team that won the first of the school’s four state championships. He still points to his union membership there.

Walz served 24 years in the Army National Guard, rising to command sergeant major, one of the highest enlisted ranks in the military, although he didn’t complete all the training before he retired so his rank for benefits purposes was set at master sergeant.

He has a proven ability to connect with conservative voters

In his first race for Congress, Walz upset a Republican incumbent. That was in 2006, when he won in a largely rural, southern Minnesota congressional district against six-term Rep. Gil Gutknecht. Walz capitalized on voter anger with then-President George W. Bush and the Iraq war.

During six terms in the U.S. House, Walz championed veterans’ issues.

He’s also shown a down-to-earth side, partly through social media video posts with his daughter, Hope. One last fall showed them trying a Minnesota State Fair ride, “The Slingshot,” after they bantered about fair food and her being a vegetarian.

He could help the ticket in key Midwestern states

While Walz isn’t from one of the crucial “blue wall” states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania, where both sides believe they need to win, he’s right next door. He also could ensure that Minnesota stays in the hands of Democrats.

That’s important because former President Donald Trump has portrayed Minnesota as being in play this year, even though the state hasn’t elected a Republican to statewide office since 2006. A GOP presidential candidate hasn’t carried the state since President Richard Nixon’s landslide in 1972, but Trump has already campaigned there .

When Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton decided not to seek a third term in 2018, Walz campaigned and won the office on a “One Minnesota” theme.

Walz also speaks comfortably about issues that matter to voters in the Rust Belt. He’s been a champion of Democratic causes, including union organizing, workers’ rights and a $15-an-hour minimum wage.

He has experience with divided government

In his first term as governor, Walz faced a Legislature split between a Democratic-led House and a Republican-controlled Senate that resisted his proposals to use higher taxes to boost money for schools, health care and roads. But he and lawmakers brokered compromises that made the state’s divided government still seem productive.

Bipartisan cooperation became tougher during his second year as he used the governor’s emergency power during the COVID-19 pandemic to shutter businesses and close schools. Republicans pushed back and forced out some agency heads. Republicans also remain critical of Walz over what they see as his slow response to sometimes violent unrest that followed the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer in 2020.

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Things got easier for Walz in his second term, after he defeated Republican Scott Jensen , a physician known nationally as a vaccine skeptic. Democrats gained control of both legislative chambers, clearing the way for a more liberal course in state government, aided by a huge budget surplus.

Walz and lawmakers eliminated nearly all of the state abortion restrictions enacted in the past by Republicans, protected gender-affirming care for transgender youth and legalized the recreational use of marijuana.

Rejecting Republican pleas that the state budget surplus be used to cut taxes, Democrats funded free school meals for children, free tuition at public colleges for students in families earning under $80,000 a year, a paid family and medical leave program and health insurance coverage regardless of a person’s immigration status.

He has an ear for sound-bite politics

Walz called Republican nominee Donald Trump and running mate JD Vance “just weird” in an MSNBC interview last month and the Democratic Governors Association — which Walz chairs — amplified the point in a post on X . Walz later reiterated the characterization on CNN, citing Trump’s repeated mentions of the fictional serial killer Hannibal Lecter from the film “Silence of the Lambs” in stump speeches.

The word quickly morphed into a theme for Harris and other Democrats and has a chance to be a watchword of the undoubtedly weird 2024 election.

Hanna reported from Topeka, Kansas.