Edit PowerPoint Slide Backgrounds Quickly

Learn how to edit PowerPoint background graphics and use them well to add variety to your presentation slides. Set images, control transparencies, and more.

This post is part of a series called How to Use PowerPoint (Ultimate Tutorial Guide).

Previous: How to Work With Images in PowerPoint (Complete PPT Picture Guide)
Next: How to Use and Edit PowerPoint PPT Master Slides

Introduction to PowerPoint Background Graphics

PowerPoint offers a wide array of tools to enhance your slides, including the ability to incorporate background images or graphics. By opting for images instead of solid color backgrounds, you can create visually appealing slides that better engage your audience.

Overview of the Tutorial

In this tutorial, we will cover the following topics:

1. How to set a different background image for each slide in your PowerPoint presentation.
2. How to add the same image background more permanently to a slide layout for future use.
3. How to reduce the opacity of a background image or graphic so that it blends harmoniously with your slide content.

Quick Video Guide to Editing PowerPoint Background Graphics

For a visual approach, watch the screencast below that demonstrates how to add your own images to PowerPoint slide backgrounds. I’ll guide you through the process of adding an image to an individual slide as well as to a presentation layout for easy reuse.

This video tutorial utilizes the powerful Be PowerPoint template from GraphicRiver, which includes numerous slide layout options.

You can explore more top PowerPoint designs at Envato Elements or discover a variety of professional PowerPoint templates available on GraphicRiver .

Illustrated Guide to Adding and Editing Image Backgrounds

Now, let’s dive into the detailed steps for adding and editing image backgrounds in PowerPoint.

Sourcing Professional Images and Graphics

Having a diverse library of images for your PowerPoint slide backgrounds is essential. Here are some great sources for high-quality images:

• Envato Elements: A subscription service that gives you access to hundreds of thousands of royalty-free stock photos, graphics, and professional PowerPoint themes that can elevate your presentations.

Adding an Image Background to a Single PowerPoint Slide

To impress your audience without spending too much time on design, consider using premium templates from Envato Elements. Here’s how to add a background image to a single slide:

1. Open a template, such as the Enjoy PowerPoint Template from Envato Elements.
2. Select the slide where you wish to add the background.
3. Insert the image by going to the Insert tab and selecting a photo from your computer.

4. Resize and reposition the imported image to cover the entire slide.

5. If the image covers your slide content, right-click on it and select Send to Back to arrange it properly.

You’ve successfully added a new background to your PowerPoint slide!

Adding an Image Background Using PowerPoint Slide Layout

To make an image background appear consistently across multiple slides, you can add it to a slide layout:

1. Go to the View menu and select Slide Master to access different slide layouts.
2. Choose a layout from the left side and insert your background image as previously described.
3. Send the image to the back using the same right-click method.

4. Exit the Slide Master view and return to normal view. Your new layout with the background image will now be available for use.

Changing the Opacity of an Image Background

If you want your background image to be less prominent, you can adjust its opacity. Here’s how:

1. Insert a rectangle shape that covers the entire slide.
2. Right-click the shape and select Format Shape.
3. In the fill options, choose Picture or texture fill and upload your desired image.
4. Adjust the Transparency slider to dim the image.

5. Ensure the Tile picture as texture box is unchecked to keep the image from stretching.

Removing Background Images in PowerPoint

When you encounter issues deleting background graphics, follow these steps:

Deleting Background Images That Can’t Be Selected

If a background image is part of the PowerPoint slide master, it may not be selectable. Switch to Slide Master view to remove it.

Removing Hidden Background Images

If images appear unselectable due to overlays, right-click the overlay layer and choose Send to Back to access the underlying image for editing.

Best Sources for PowerPoint Background Graphics

With a subscription to Envato Elements, you can download an unlimited number of PowerPoint templates without having to create backgrounds from scratch.

Moreover, a subscription grants access to stock photos and various visual elements to enhance your presentations.

Top PowerPoint Templates with Exceptional Backgrounds

Here’s a selection of five excellent templates you can download with your Envato Elements subscription:

1. Enjoy PowerPoint Template

2. Moob Creative PowerPoint Template

3. Self Creative PowerPoint Presentation

4. Bolo PowerPoint Template

5. Ciri PowerPoint Template

For more templates with striking background graphics, check out this collection .

Conclusion

By enhancing your PowerPoint presentations with well-chosen background graphics, you can create a more engaging experience for your audience. Explore the various techniques discussed in this guide and elevate your presentation design to new heights!