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Background Presentation templates

Take advantage of these free ppt and google slides presentation templates whose backgrounds stand out and boost the overall look of your slide decks..

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Futuristic background.

When you need to impress everybody and stay relevant, you must look ahead and aim to be the first. Take a peek into the future with this new template Slidesgo has just designed. It’s free and perfect for techie topics or just for giving your presentation a futuristic vibe!

Aqua Marketing Plan

For those times when a marketing plan needs to cause an impact, trust this template. You'll see instantly how appealing the watercolor details are when contemplating these slides. This design can be the perfect choice if your message has to do with water or the environment!

Notebook Lesson

These are the last days before the Summer break! We know that there are some pending lessons that you need to prepare for your students. As they may be thinking about their friends and their holidays, catch their attention with this cool template!

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End of School Year Tests

Download the End of School Year Tests presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides. The education sector constantly demands dynamic and effective ways to present information. This template is created with that very purpose in mind. Offering the best resources, it allows educators or students to efficiently manage their presentations and...

Ecology Company Budget Infographics

Download the Ecology Company Budget Infographics template for PowerPoint or Google Slides and discover the power of infographics. An infographic resource gives you the ability to showcase your content in a more visual way, which will make it easier for your audience to understand your topic. Slidesgo infographics like this...

Minimalist Aesthetic Slideshow

When you combine a minimalist design with abstract shapes and a palette composed of pastel colors, you get a successful result. This template has all of the aforementioned, plus an elegant typography and some icons of plants. It's quite unique and works for any topic, so give it a try!

Leafy Green Color Palette Company Profile

Download the "Leafy Green Color Palette Company Profile" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides. Presenting a comprehensive company profile can be a game-changer for your business. A well-crafted profile connects with potential clients and vendors on another level, giving them a deep understanding of your organization. This company profile template...

Yellow Abstract Marketing Theme

Download the "Yellow Abstract Marketing Theme" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides and take your marketing projects to the next level. This template is the perfect ally for your advertising strategies, launch campaigns or report presentations. Customize your content with ease, highlight your ideas and captivate your audience with a...

Boho Autumn Leaves Personal Organizer for Elementary

Organizational problems? Never again thanks to this elementary school organizer template! Let yourself be seduced by its warm orange tone with leaf and flower patterns. And be amazed by the huge amount of resources we put at your disposal so that nothing important escapes you: to-do lists, monthly calendar, space...

Butterflies Campaign

Download the "Butterflies Campaign" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides. Improve your campaign management with this template that will definitely make a difference. It will empower you to organize, execute, and track the effectiveness of your campaign. Enriched with innovative resources, it facilitates seamless communication, meticulous planning, and provides insightful...

Team Building Class for Elementary

Your students spend most of their days at school, so building a good atmosphere in the class is vital for their happiness. Why don’t you dedicate a day to team building activities? This will help new students make friends and older students create deeper relationships with their classmates. It that...

Eco-Friendly Minitheme

Speaking about taking care of the environment is always a good idea, and with this Eco-Friendly Minitheme you can assure that your audience knows about recycling, bio products, the problems of plastic, and the solutions to lessen the impacts of global warming. The slides have cute abstract and floral illustration...

Minimalist Business Slides

Minimalism is an art style that frees the canvas and that lets the content stand out for itself. It’s a way of conveying modernism, simplicity and elegance and can be your best ally in your next presentation. With this new design from Slidesgo, your business presentations will be as professional...

Writing Rubric Worksheet

Download the Writing Rubric Worksheet template for PowerPoint or Google Slides and supercharge your teaching with dynamic worksheets. Do you enjoy enriching your lessons with engaging activities? These PowerPoint and Google Slides worksheets are here to transform your classroom experience. Dive into a world of interactive learning where creativity meets...

Spring Woods

Download the "Spring Woods" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides and start impressing your audience with a creative and original design. Slidesgo templates like this one here offer the possibility to convey a concept, idea or topic in a clear, concise and visual way, by using different graphic resources. You...

Floral Pattern

Download the "Floral Pattern" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides and start impressing your audience with a creative and original design. Slidesgo templates like this one here offer the possibility to convey a concept, idea or topic in a clear, concise and visual way, by using different graphic resources. You...

Watercolor Company Profile

Do you like watercolor painting and need to present your company profile? Combine your passion with your work with this Google Slides and PowerPoint template. The Slidesgo team has designed this presentation that looks like a canvas with all the watercolor strokes included. And not only that! All the resources...

Formal Meeting

When it comes to important decisions and discussions, a formal meeting is often necessary. These meetings are typically held in a structured setting and require a certain level of decorum and respect for all participants. Do you think that they also require a well-prepared presentation? We think so, because we've...

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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:

CREATE THIS PRESENTATION TEMPLATE

With an image frame, you can make the computer screen show whatever you want, even the background image:

Learn how to customize this presentation template :

Creating an effective business presentation involves careful planning, organization and effective communication. Save yourself the time and hassle by customizing one of our professionally designed business presentation templates .

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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Our 25 best presentation backgrounds that grab your attention

Get your team on prezi – watch this on demand video.

Prezi March 26, 2019

A good background of your presentation sets the stage for the rest of the look and feel, so it’s important to choose wisely. For example, a simple design can elevate the look of your content, but too simple and it can appear unpolished. Meanwhile, a colorful background can provide the foundation for a balanced palette, but one color too many and you’ve got a chaotic mess. A strong contrast can help make a bold statement, but text can easily get lost if the contrast is too high.

The process is certainly delicate, but not impossible. It simply requires thinking a bit deeper about your choice and keeping a couple of tricks in mind. Below, we’ve put together a collection of some of our favorite backgrounds to use in Prezi presentations and a description of why they work. You can find all of the examples below within the Prezi platform.

Using lines and curves in backgrounds to structure your presentation

If you have a hidden line in a photo, you can structure your content so that it follows a particular flow. Keeping your text or topics along the line can also help prevent you from placing content over subjects within a background image (a common mistake that can make your visuals difficult to digest).

1. Iceland in presentation backgrounds

We like this photo of a lone figure in nature because the ice creates a natural direction for content and there’s plenty of room for placement.

2. Coffee mug presentation background

This coffee mug is a nice choice for presenters who don’t want to deliver their content in a specific order. Text or topics can be placed anywhere around the central image, and presenters have the option to use techniques like conversational presenting to share their message.

3. The road forward presentation picture

If your presentation is about a type of journey (whether that’s actual travel, the process of achieving something in your professional life, or something in between), this road-forward image is a great option. The metaphor can be communicated fairly quickly, and the road provides an actual line for your content.

Using negative space in presentation backgrounds

It’s easy to discount empty areas in photos, but when it comes to good backgrounds, negative space can be incredibly useful. Consider spicing up a sparse area with text, shapes, icons, logos, etc. when you want to make them pop.

If slides aren’t your cup of tea, or you’re simply in the mood to try something new, Prezi’s open canvas might be the right change of pace. Prezi users can easily design their presentation within negative spaces by placing topics or stacks of content in them, and navigate to each area as needed. Here’s an example from one of our Prezi Awards winners:

Negative space surrounding your subject or content can also provide a “safe area” in the event that your presentation is printed. Create physical takeaways for your presentation with the exact same content and you can be sure none of your important information will get lost in the margins.

4. Black and white turtle background

We like the recoloring of this image because the dark water provides a space that can make your message really stand out. Pair this image with a memorable statistic in a bold , white font, a heartstring-tugging quote, or whatever message is most important for the audience to remember.

5. Swimmers in presentation backgrounds

This photo makes a great background because it’s an even balance of subjects and empty space. The mid-action shot lends a sense of motion and excitement and would pair well with text or content of a similar sentiment placed on the right-hand side, or around the pier.

6. Snowy paddler background image

The negative space in this snowy paddler image is balanced around the subject, making it a great option if you want to include a few pieces of information in this section of the presentation but convey a sense of equal importance between them.

Using action and flow in presentation backgrounds

While background images are, obviously, in the background, they can actually help drive the presentation if used within platforms like Prezi. See how we take the same backgrounds from the negative space section and turn them into an essential part of the story.

In the swimmer’s photo, for example, our main subject is jumping from the pier. We can, therefore, create a content flow that starts at the pier and finishes in the water, roughly in the spot where he will land. Adding slightly opaque topics like the ones pictured here can help give context to your presentation flow, and retain the full image.

Meanwhile, our black and white turtle is swimming towards the surface of the ocean. We can indicate growth, a journey, or problem-solving by placing topics along the same trajectory.

Lastly, our lone paddler is all about choices. She can either go straight, veer to the left, or head to the shore on the right side. If the story you’re presenting is about a crossroads, or the intention is to present content in a different order each time, a structure that leaves your options open to fit the situation at hand is ideal (think a sales pitch or a project proposal).

Patterns and textures in presentation backgrounds

Sometimes a background with subjects or a metaphor isn’t the right approach to a presentation. In that case, patterns or textures are great for adding visual oomph to your message without getting too detailed. But not every pattern or texture is made equally. Some can be too distracting, or too bold to support your content. Make sure you’re thinking twice before you make your selection.  

Monochrome for good presentation backgrounds

A monochrome background can enhance the colors of your content– no matter what those colors are. The examples below also allow for a strong headline and multiple content flows, since they’re simple and straightforward.

7.  Woven wave presentation background

This woven wave is a great option if you want to give direction to your content but don’t want to include a metaphor of any kind. You can also choose from a wide variety of color palettes since just about everything stands out against black and white.

8. Painted wall presentation image

This painted wall gives you options. You can place your content in a line on the top or the bottom half; either would look natural to the eye. The two halves also suggest categories, should you decide to place your content on the top and the bottom.

9. Water ripple presentation background

Varying shades of the same blue make this watery monochrome background a great option for those looking to add movement or fluidity to their message in an elegant way.

Architectural makes good backgrounds

Architectural backgrounds in presentations are great for modern content. Their edginess or open-airiness is visually attractive, and they often consist of a flat pattern that can support many different content layouts.

10. Cityscape presentation image

Cityscape images make good presentation backgrounds because they give you the feeling of looking up. Try this background if the message you’re trying to communicate is forward-looking or about the promise of a brighter future.

11. Quilted metal background

This quilted pattern is great for when you want to share the information in your presentation in a non-linear order. Because it’s textured and yet flat, your content can live anywhere and be placed in whichever order you choose without being visually confusing.

12. High-rise presentation picture

This tall building naturally causes the eye to gravitate to the top of the image. Use this presentation background when you want to direct your audience’s eyes to a single area.

13. Shifted city background image

Everyone likes a good cityscape, but they can sometimes be so mesmerizing that they detract from the content. By using black and white and a trick of the lens, this photograph is perfect for those who want the scenery to make a subtle urban statement.

Bright colors make good presentation backgrounds

Sometimes you want good presentation backgrounds that offer visual appeal without being too visually appealing. Subtle textures like the options below can, while full of color, easily add depth to content and keep context intact when you’re zooming in and out. And, because they’re flat, you can build almost any kind of presentation on top of them.

14. Moody blue background image

We like this moody blue option because it’s simple, calming, and has enough variation in the hue to remain visually interesting. Try this type of background if your message is meant to be soothing.

15. Greenscape presentation background

This green option screams action, and much like a player’s handbook, or a score sheet, insinuates planning. Try this background if your presentation is about achieving a goal or strategizing a project. Think QBR, a sales kickoff, or even an all-hands company meeting.

16. Blue wave paint presentation background

If your presentation is about creativity, the blue-painted waves in this presentation could be a great option. There’s enough variety in the palette to make it exciting, but not so much that it would detract from your overall message. Content can also be placed in any order and look natural.

17. Bordered bricks presentation picture

The natural border this painted brick background provides can lend your presentation structure, especially if the content itself is meant to be unsystematic. Take this background for a spin if you’re going to try the conversational presenting method.

18. Red wave background

This closeup of a structure in Milan, Italy, is striking for obvious reasons. In a presentation background, its bold color palette can easily be used in combination with neutral content (think black and white) to make a chic statement.

19. Wooden geometry presentation image

The warmth of the wood and the various angles in this photo from Shanghai, China, make it a perfect background for a welcoming message. Try this option if you’re presenting something educational.

20. Blurry confetti presentation background

Blurred backgrounds are great for presentations because they allow the presenter to build content on top of an image that subliminally tells the eye not to focus on it. This blurred confetti background has color, texture, and emotion all wrapped up in one. Try it out if you’re presenting about something cheerful, or really want to get your audience pumped.

Simple presentation backgrounds

Sometimes you don’t need a subject in your background. Sometimes you don’t even need a pattern! In the cases when simple makes the most sense, here are a few recommendations.

21. Dark presentation background image

A dark presentation background is particularly good for stage presentations and bold content. Be sure to use bright text and images for optimal contrast.

22. Bright presentation backgrounds

When your content has a lot of colors, you can try using a neutral background with lots of texture like this one to give extra depth to your presentation.

23. Light blue background images

Light blues are cool and calming– perfect for low-key presentations. With this background, it’s best to put your text in the brightest areas of the gradient.

24. Deep blue background image

Deeper blues are great for professional topics, especially when you want to convey a serious mood.

25. Soft presentation backgrounds

Soft presentation backgrounds are very flexible because they don’t command attention. If you use one that transitions from one color to the next, like this one, try placing your main points on the top and secondary points on the bottom.

For more ideas and examples, go to our article on simple presentation backgrounds .

How to choose the right presentation background

Selecting the perfect presentation background is a critical step in creating a visually compelling and effective presentation. Here are some practical guidelines to help you make the right choice:

1. Define your presentation’s purpose and audience

Before you start browsing backgrounds for a presentation, take a moment to clarify the purpose of your presentation and understand your audience. Consider questions like:

• What is the main message or theme of your presentation?
• Who is your target audience, and what are their preferences and expectations?
• What emotions or reactions do you want to evoke in your audience?

By having a clear understanding of your presentation’s purpose and your audience’s needs, you’ll be better equipped to choose a background that aligns with your goals.

2. Consider the message you want to convey

Your presentation’s content should drive your background choice. Think about the message you want to convey and how the background can support or enhance that message. Here are a few examples:

If your presentation is about innovation and creativity, a background with vibrant colors or abstract patterns can convey a sense of dynamism.

For a more serious and professional topic, consider using a clean and minimalist background to maintain a professional appearance.

If you’re presenting data or statistics, a background with simple lines or grids can help organize your information effectively.

The following presentation clearly communicates what it’s going to be about with its background image:

3. Balance simplicity and visual appeal

As mentioned earlier, balance is key. Aim for a background that is visually appealing but not overly complex. Too much visual noise can distract your audience from your content. Simplicity can make your message stand out, so choose backgrounds that enhance, rather than overpower, your presentation.

4. Think about color psychology

Colors play a significant role in conveying emotions and messages. Different colors can evoke various feelings and responses from your audience. Consider the following associations when selecting colors for good backgrounds:

• Blue: Trust, professionalism, and calm.
• Red: Energy, passion, and excitement.
• Green: Growth, balance, and harmony.
• Yellow: Optimism, warmth, and positivity.

Choose colors that align with the mood and tone of your presentation. Keep in mind that text and other content on your slides should contrast well with the background color for readability.

The choice of bright yellow ties together with the optimistic and inspiring message of the presentation:

5. Test and iterate

Before finalizing your background choice, create a sample slide with your content to ensure that it looks visually appealing and is easy to read. Test it on various screens and consider how it will appear in different lighting conditions. If something doesn’t work, be willing to iterate and make adjustments until you find the perfect balance.

6. Maintain consistency

Consistency is key to a polished presentation. Once you’ve selected good backgrounds, use them consistently throughout your presentation. This helps maintain a cohesive visual identity and keeps the focus on your content rather than the background.

The colors and elements of the background image stay the same throughout the presentation, providing a coherent viewing experience:

7. Explore Prezi’s options for good backgrounds

If you’re using Prezi for your presentation, take advantage of its background features. Prezi offers a wide range of good backgrounds, including patterns, textures, and images. Use Prezi’s search tool to find good backgrounds that match your criteria, and don’t hesitate to explore different options to find the one that best suits your presentation.

Dos and don’ts of presentation backgrounds

When it comes to good backgrounds, there are certain dos and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure your visuals enhance rather than detract from your message. Here are some key guidelines:

• Consider the message: Think about the core message of your presentation. Does it require a specific mood, tone, or theme? Select a background that aligns with your message. For example, a serene nature background might be suitable for a presentation on mindfulness, while a dynamic cityscape could work well for a business strategy presentation.
• Balance simplicity: Simplicity can elevate the aesthetics of your presentation, but avoid extremes. Too simple, and it may appear unprofessional; too complex, and it can distract from your content. Strive for a balance that enhances your message without overwhelming your audience.
• Use negative space wisely: Negative space within a background can be a hidden gem. Utilize empty areas to add text, icons, or logos, making your content pop. This technique can help guide your audience’s attention to key points.
• Create a visual hierarchy: Arrange your content on the background strategically. Use the background’s elements, lines, or flow to guide the viewer’s eye to the most important information. Ensure a logical visual hierarchy.
• Test for clarity: Before finalizing your background, test it with sample content to ensure readability. Make sure your text contrasts well with the background color or pattern. Avoid backgrounds that make text hard to read.
• Overcrowd good backgrounds: Resist the temptation to clutter your background with too many elements. It can make your presentation look chaotic and difficult to follow. Keep it clean and organized.
• Distracting patterns: While patterns and textures can add visual appeal, be cautious not to choose backgrounds that are overly distracting. The background should complement, not compete with, your content.
• Inappropriate color schemes: Consider color psychology when selecting background colors. For instance, avoid overly bright or clashing colors that might create visual discomfort. Opt for colors that evoke the desired emotional response from your audience.
• Lack of consistency: Maintain consistency in your background design throughout your presentation. Abruptly changing good backgrounds can disrupt the flow and coherence of your message.

Selecting good backgrounds for your presentations is a nuanced process that requires thoughtful consideration. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure your background enhances your content, captures your audience’s attention, and helps convey your message effectively. Remember that a well-chosen background can set the stage for a successful presentation.

Learn more about the best presentation design practices by watching the following video:

How to find your perfect images for good backgrounds in Prezi

Adding a background image is a great way to set the look and feel of your presentation — and it’s super easy to do if you’re a Prezi user. You can select a background by using the “Background” sidebar from within the platform itself. From here, you can also change your background color. All of the images we shared in this post were found through this feature. 

Check out the process in the video below.

Adding a couple of keywords to your searches can help source images that are best suited to good backgrounds for your message. Our own designers often add “sparse” or “plain” to their queries in order to pull up options that have plenty of space for topics. You can also search for “texture” or “pattern” if you’d prefer something without a subject at all.

In addition to making background design easy, the search tool within Prezi will also source high-quality images and icons for you to use, so you can design your entire presentation from start to finish without ever leaving the platform.

Easily convert your PowerPoint to a Prezi

If you already have a presentation designed in PowerPoint, we make it easy to take Prezi for a test drive with PowerPoint converter. With Prezi, you can animate your existing set of PowerPoint slides. After importing and selecting which slides you want to keep, simply select your new background, layout, shapes, and colors.

If you’re new to the Prezi-verse, check out some of our favorite presentations on our gallery page . Prezi’s one-of-a-kind open canvas lets you organize and view your presentation as a whole.

Login to start designing your good backgrounds, or sign up for an account to get started.

Choosing the right presentation background may require some thoughtful consideration, but the effort pays off in creating a more engaging and impactful presentation. By aligning your background with your message and audience, you can set the stage for a successful presentation that captures your audience’s attention and effectively conveys your ideas.

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81 Impressive Free Presentation Backgrounds for Outstanding Presentations

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By Lyudmil Enchev

in Freebies

5 years ago

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Update: May 19, 2022

A collection of free presentation backgrounds for any topic.

Nowadays, presentations need to look modern and eye-catchy in order to keep the audience’s attention from beginning to end. Believe it or not, the visual factor plays a huge role in engaging your viewers. In this collection of free presentation backgrounds , we’ve gathered high-quality graphics – ready to import into your PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Keynote presentations and resize according to your needs.

In this article you will find: Free Business Presentation Backgrounds Free Minimalist & Geometric Presentation Backgrounds Colorful Gradients & Artistic Free Presentation Backgrounds Free Technology Presentation Backgrounds Free Liquid Presentation Backgrounds Free Cute Presentation Backgrounds Free Vintage Presentation Backgrounds Free Paper Presentation Backgrounds Free Holiday Presentation Backgrounds Bonus Backgrounds

Do you want to check out The Best Presentation Software Options on The Market ?

Free Business Presentation Backgrounds

Business presentation backgrounds are slightly different than other types of backgrounds. Unlike more casual presentations, business presentations usually consist of a business-related stock photo – office space, formally dressed people, whiteboards, etc. Take a look at the backgrounds we’ve collected for your company presentation:

1. Blurred Office Interior Background

Blurred light photographs are great for business presentations where they can fit in any slide.

2. Light Corporate Interior Background

This blurred hallway interior image can ideally match a professional presentation.

3. Person Writing on Laptop Background

Workstation backgrounds complete your idea if they don’t distract. In this case, the person working on a laptop is positioned in the corner of the frame.

4. Modern Business Building Background

This background might be an amazing first slide. But even if used somewhere else, it will still do a great job, unless used in all slides.

5. Business Handshake Network Creation Background

An amazing background for corporate presentations that is perfect for teamwork, business communication, partners, or proposals slides.

6. Businessman in Office Modern Skyscraper Landscape Background

This background, although made as a photograph, can actually help you achieve the formal vibe you are looking for.

Free Minimalist & Geometric Presentation Backgrounds

Suitable for literally any kind of presentation, these minimalist presentation background designs come with attractive geometric shapes and pleasant color combinations. The graphics are highly modern right now, so your presentation will certainly impress with good taste and professionalism. The resources are also available in fully editable and resizable vector file formats.

7. Modern Geometric Background

Shapes are very pleasant for the eye. This background uses very “soft” colors, making it quite feminine and good-looking.

8. Black and White Geometry Background

Playing with black and white backgrounds is the best way to proceed if you want to accent the text. This one looks stylish and modern, and it will add a premium feel to your slides.

9. Simple Dark Geometry Background

Using two dominant colors in one background is a great combination. It shows great power and even a bit of provocation.

10. Fresh Squares and Circles Background

Utilizing different shapes and a few variants of blue is a good mix. A non-intrusive design for presentations.

11. Abstract Blue Lines Background

This abstract blue lines background fits the standard business practices of non-aggressive design.

12. Colorful Memphis Style Background

This Memphis-style background shines with its combination of minimalistic design combined with shapes all around the place.

13. Cool Modern Colors Background

If you had to pick one image to explain the term “technology”, that would probably be it.

14. Trendy Outline Shapes Background

A casual style background with simple shapes with playful colors plus trendy black strokes.

15. Neon Modern Shapes Background

Abstract geometry definitely has its place under the sun and is becoming a hot trend – your younger audience will love it!

16. Colorful Geometry Shapes Background

This colorful background is an amazing option for presentation design that aims to get more creative.

17. Modern Lines and Dots Background

This background with blue/purple colors and linear shapes is perfect for more creative presentations.

18. Minimalist Shapes Background with Pastel Gradients

The minimalist signature is easily recognizable and the use of pastel gradients “softens” the shapes.

19. Simplistic White-Grey Background

Light, neutral background with dots and lines that can be used in any presentation.

20. 4 Simple Style Backgrounds

Four simple backgrounds can be used for any purpose. You will find an orange, purple, red, and cyan background for your presentations.

21. Seamless Patterns Mega Bundle with 15 Free Geometric Pattern Backgrounds

A huge pattern designs bundle with over 1000 premium. Still, you have 15 free seamless patterns that you can use as backgrounds to lit up your presentations.

Colorful Gradients & Artistic Free Presentation Backgrounds

The delicate play with colors is very important when it comes to presentation background – it should be easy on the eyes and feel… right. This collection is everything you need if you are looking for a vibrant, colorful background for your presentation. Free gradient presentation backgrounds, watercolor backgrounds, and more artistic suggestions for your colorful slides.

22. Blue Tone Gradient Background

Gradient backgrounds make flat colors look more vibrant. The blue tones are quite relaxing and trustworthy.

23. 4 Artistic Texture Backgrounds

Textures can be attention-grabbing. Picking such background can create a more professional feeling.

24. Nice Warm Colors Gradient Background

Warm colors are typically better for cheerful presentations, as they “uplift” the mood.

25. Cool Cold Colors Gradient Background

If you have to come up with a presentation related to a marine topic, that’s your perfect choice.

26. Modern Blue Gradient Background

Blue and purple are two solid colors. Using this background gradient is perfect for business presentations.

27. Energetic Orange Gradient Background

A clean background with a vivid orange color gradient. Perfect for different energetic presentations.

28. Colorful Rainbow Gradient Background

Using a rainbow gradient is an amazing option for presentations dedicated to kids, or teenage audience.

29. Elegant Blury Bokeh Background

Stolen from photographers, the “bokeh” effect background makes presentations stand out.

You may also be interested in The Best Color Combinations to Try Now

Free Technology Presentation Backgrounds

Presentation background designs suitable for technology and business presentations. These backgrounds look high-tech and modern but still won’t steal away the attention of the viewer. Available in vector file formats which makes them fully editable and resizeable depending on your presentation style and dimensions.

30. Modern Technology Background

This high-tech background design is perfect for innovation and digital presentations.

31. Abstract Modern Tech Background

Abstract design with modern simple squares – an amazing option for high-tech presentations.

32. Abstract Futuristic Background with Honeycomb

This abstract and futuristic dark background is perfectly suitable for technical presentations.

33. Futuristic Technology Interface Background

Great technology background with minimalist, clean design that will fit any high-tech presentation.

Free Liquid Presentation Backgrounds

A selection of free presentation backgrounds with liquids and bubbles. Flat or 3D, these backgrounds are super immersive and certainly impressive. They will be the perfect addition to a wide array of presentation topics. You can get them completely for free as fully editable and resizable vector file formats .

34. Blue Liquid Background

The combination of dark blue and light blue is an amazing option for a presentation. An amazing option, especially for financial services.

35. Yellow Liquid Background

These cheeky shapes and colors are an amazing way to present something that can be qualified as everything but boring. Great for uprising sales, or summer theme for example.

36. Purple Liquid Background

Purple is a royal color and combined with a liquid design background it becomes even better for a modern-day classy presentation.

37. Monochrome Liquid Background

A perfect blend between using 3D forms and gradient colors. The blur effect and reflections are also attributed to the exquisite look of this background.

38. Modern Blue-Green Liquid Background

It’s an interesting, yet impressive background design. You can definitely stand out with this modern, blue-green liquid background.

39. Watercolor Background with White Blue and Purple

This background, in particular, doesn’t have a practical use in business presentations but it fits perfectly in artistic ones.

40. Liquid Shapes Monochrome Background

You’ll rarely come across a better realistic 3D background for medical presentations.

41. Modern Dark Liquid Background

Compared to a couple of the previous backgrounds, this dark liquid background is pretty standard and it can fit multiple presentation themes.

Free Cute Presentation Backgrounds

Cute backgrounds are often used for educational projects  – especially when presenting in front of kids. Smile-bringing designs will always win you emotional points, and it’s always a good idea to have a themed background or two just in case.

42. Cute Animal Background

In this background, you can find cute 2D animals all around the frame. At the same time, the central part is filled with white space, so you can add text there.

43. Colorful Pastel Color Pattern Background

These beautiful rounded shapes add the feeling of watercolor art and we can definitely catch the pattern design.

44. Space Rocket Child Background

If you’re about to teach a science class – that might be perfect. Well, unless you have university students.

45. Blue Pastel Sky and Clouds Background

It’s a simple blue background with white clouds. It can be used as a theme for a whole educational presentation.

46. Cute Doodle Frame Background

This beautiful cute doodles frame is also matched with a rainbow border vector and free text space in the center.

47. Green Park Illustration Landscape Background

There is nothing more suitable for educational presentation than a simple landscape illustration with trees, clouds and sun.

Free Vintage Presentation Backgrounds

Retro and vintage looks are quite modern right now, so no wonder people are choosing vintage looks for their presentations, as well. In this selection of free presentation backgrounds, you will find ornamental backgrounds, grudge backgrounds, worn-out materials, old paper effects, antique looks, damasks, etc. All are free to download in vector file formats – fully editable and scalable.

48. Ornamental Vintage Floral Background

Vintage backgrounds, especially floral are a very strong point if you’re coming with flower-related topics.

49. Vintage Frame Background

Frames are typically used in photography, so go for it if you have lots of pictures in your presentations.

50. Damask Pattern Vintage Background

Damask pattern is a specific vintage style which will not only look good, but also grab attention by being unique.

51. Grunge Texture Background

This grunge background focuses on the main picture, so it’s great for quizzes or presentations where there is one central topic.

52. Retro Grunge Texture Background

If you have a presentation related to Ancient times (especially Egypt), that’s your background.

53. Vintage Shapes Pattern Background

These vintage shapes are quite peculiar but you can use them for boring topics to give “life”.

54. Grunge Hearts Background

Another cool background design is the grunge hearts. It can be used for many presentations.

55. Old Paper Antique Texture Background

Old Paper can perfectly fit any slide related to the Middle centuries.

56. Blue Grunge Background

Another amazing grunge background that can be the greatest companion of any history-related presentation.

57. Vintage Paper Retro Background

Vintage paper can be an amazing background for any presentation for hand-made products.

Free Paper Presentation Backgrounds

Paper and cardboard textures give presentations a homey and hand-made feel. In this selection of free presentation backgrounds, you will see different paper textures. Adaptable for any presentation theme, these designs can be downloaded in vector file formats and edited in vector-based software.

58. White Paper Texture Background

Paper texture can be great for teachers who want a neutral background.

59. Package Paper Background

Package paper is great for presentations related to delivery services.

60. Simple White Paper Background

A simple white paper background that can fit any need.

61. Brown Paper Background

Another great background for delivery services presentations.

62. Paper Note Memphis Style Background

The combination of blank space and surrounding in Memphis Style makes this colorful background perfect to give a modern look to your presentation.

Free Holiday Presentation Backgrounds

Holiday backgrounds should not be used every day but they can be powerful triggers. Holiday presentations spark emotions which can be a good way to convey your message during festive periods. Let’s see some of the best free holiday backgrounds you can use for the occasion.

63. Christmas Decoration Photo Background

A marvelous Christmas concept background where you can add text on the left part of the slide and the Christmas elements are on the right.

64. White Simple Christmas Background

If you’re into texture and white backgrounds, this free Christmas photo is for you.

65. Cartoon Snowy Christmas Vector Background

This free vector background gives you the chance to edit details or add some more Christmas decorations.

66. Cute Christmas Background with Illustrations

The Christmas decorations are placed at the top and bottom of the background, so you have free space right in the middle.

67. Halloween Spider Web Background

A great combination of orange (the color associated with Hallowen) and spider web makes this vector background very straight to the point.

68. Flat Hallowen Vector Background With House

A flat illustration background with Halloween’s color palette and some standard “scary” motives.

69. Easter Egg Photo Frame Background

You can easily “catch” the Easter topic with the dyed eggs and the basket. The M&Ms are also an original idea to add flat shapes.

70. Watercolor Light Easter Vector Background

Watercolor Easter backgrounds look natural and beautiful. They can be a great addition to any Easter-related presentation.

71. Beautiful Landscape Thanksgiving Autumn Illustration Background

This illustration has the color palette of autumn which is also associated with Thanksgiving day.

72. Hand Drawn Thanksgiving Illustration Background

In the hand drawn thanksgiving illustration we can find the typical colors of autumn, plus the pumpkin and, of course, the Thanksgiving turkey.

73. Watercolor Thanksgiving Background

Watercolor art is very distinctive and for the “Thanksgiving” topic, it can create some beautiful results.

74. Thanksgiving Decoration Photo Background

The combination of a white background with green and brown leaves, plus pines and pumpkins enriches the image and adds contrast.

Bonus Presentation Backgrounds

A collection of high-resolution photos that impress with super high quality. These images show attention to detail but are still humble enough to keep the audience focused on your content. Attribution for using these images is not required, although it’s appreciated.

75. Clean Package Boxes Background

It’s a lovely background that is good for Christmas topics or any gift-related presentations.

76. Elegant Decoration Background Image

If you’re looking for a background for your wedding agency, you’re in the right place.

77. Pencils and Office Items Background

The elements in the background suggest you it is a perfect match for teachers and lecturers.

78. Simple Clean Background with a Book

Books are symbol of liberty and education. The background is great for science presentations.

79. Bridge Landscape Photography Background

Golden Gate bridge stands tall. So is the background which can be used for all kinds of presentations.

80. Sunset Background Image

Sunsets are proven to be stress-relieving, making this background suitable for meditation business presentations.

81. Monochrome Landscape Background

Skyscrapers, shady pinks, and overall – the perfect cosmetics presentation.

That’s it!

We hope this collection of free presentation backgrounds was useful to you. We hope it helps you make your next presentation super impressive and successful. If you’d like to see even more freebies, go ahead and have a look at these awesome suggestions:

• 39 Free Google Slides Templates For Your Next Presentation
• The Best Free PowerPoint Templates to Download in 2022
• How to Start and End a Presentation: 10 Practical Tips to Grab Attention

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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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