Can you set a background on Snapchat?

Yes, you can set a background on Snapchat. Snapchat allows users to customize their snaps in various ways, including changing the background behind selfies or other photos taken through the app. There are a few different options for setting a background on Snapchat depending on the effect you want to achieve.

Using Snapchat Lenses

One way to change your background is by using Snapchat lenses. Lenses are fun effects and filters created by Snapchat that overlay your selfies or videos with animated graphics, images, or stylized backgrounds. There are thousands of lenses available in the Snapchat lens carousel that you can browse through to find backgrounds.

To use a lens background:

Open the Snapchat camera.
Tap the smiling face icon on the right side of the capture button to open your lenses.
Browse through the lenses and tap on one you want to apply that has a background effect.

Take your snap as normal with the lens background applied.

Some lenses have animated backgrounds like falling rose petals or sparkles, while others add in static background images. The lens library is always expanding with new options too. Using lenses is the easiest way to set a fun, eye-catching background.

Using Cutout and Eraser Tools

You can also set any photo or image as a background by using Snapchat’s cutout and eraser tools. Here’s how:

Take a selfie or photo as your base snap.
Go to the edit tools and select the scissors icon.
Trace around the part of the image you want to cut out from the background.

Tap the eraser icon and erase the background around the cutout area.
Tap done to apply the cutout.
Go to your camera roll and select a photo to use as the new background.

Position and size the background image in the edit tools.
Tap done to apply the new background.

This method lets you get creative and makes any image in your camera roll a potential Snapchat background!

Using Color Backgrounds

Snapchat also has a selection of solid color backgrounds you can set your snaps against:

Open the Snapchat camera
Tap on the background color icon in the top right corner (looks like a rectangle)

Select a color from the palette
Take your snap with the color background applied

The color backgrounds can give your snaps a bold, artistic look. You can also combine them with emoji stickers and drawings for a pop art feel.

Using Geofilters

Geofilters are a fun way to add location-themed backgrounds to your Snapchats. Different cities, events, and places have custom geofilters designed for them. To use a geofilter as a background:

Take a snap anywhere that has a special geofilter.
Tap on the geofilter icon and browse the available geofilters for that location.

Select one you like and take your snap with the geofilter applied.

Geofilters automatically add relevant backgrounds based on time and place, like when you’re at a concert or on vacation. It’s an easy way to make your snaps more personalized.

Using Snapchat Memories

You can also use any photos or videos saved in your Snapchat memories as backgrounds for new snaps. Just like with your camera roll, you can position and resize your memories in the edit tool to create a custom background.

Tips for Using Backgrounds

Here are some tips to take your Snapchat backgrounds to the next level:

Use landscapes or nature photos for a refreshing outdoor feel.
Try pictures of outer space or galaxies for a cosmic vibe.

Black or white backgrounds create a clean, minimalist look.
Match the color of your background to the color of your clothing for a bold, stylistic effect.
Layer multiple backgrounds using the cutout tool for unique collage-style snaps.

Rotate and resize chaotic backgrounds for an artistic vibe.

Get creative and have fun setting all kinds of backgrounds on your Snapchat selfies, videos, and stories! Changing up your backdrop is an easy way to keep your snaps looking fresh.

Can You Set a Permanent Background?

Unfortunately, there is no way to permanently set a custom background that carries over to all your snaps. The background options in Snapchat must be selected each time you take a snap.

Some reasons Snapchat hasn’t added permanant backgrounds include:

Part of the fun is changing up and trying new backgrounds instead of sticking to one.
The app’s focus is on ephemeral, in-the-moment content rather than permanent customized profiles.

Temporary backgrounds encourage more creativity and spontaneity.

While you can’t permanently set a background, it only takes a couple taps to add one to any snap. The extra step allows you to choose backgrounds that match your vibe or activity in the moment.

Conclusion

Snapchat offers a variety of ways to customize your snaps with cool backgrounds. You can browse hundreds of lenses with background effects, use the cutout tool to add any photo or video from your camera roll, select color backgrounds for a bold artistic feel, take advantage of location-based geofilters, and utilize your own saved Snapchat memories.

Changing up your backdrop is a fun way to express your creativity and keep your snaps looking fresh. So tap through those lenses, dig through your camera roll, and get snapping with your new backgrounds!