What’s the Best Background for Podcast Video? (And Does it Matter?)

You’re setting up your video podcast, but something feels… off. The audio? Perfect. The content? Gold. But the look? Not quite there. 

As podcasters we’ve got great audio content down, we know how it’s done. But with the rise of video podcasting, there’s a whole new element to learn. Now we need to bring your brand to the setup.

Your background for a podcast video serves as more than a backdrop, it’s part of your brand. Let’s talk about how to get it right.

Why Your Video Podcast Background Matters

When it comes to video podcasts, your audience isn’t just listening; they’re watching. It turns out that 33% of podcast listeners prefer to actively watch the video while tuning into their shows on YouTube. Your whole video setup tells them a story before you say a word. Is it clean and professional? Quirky and creative? Or does it look like you hit record in your closet? (As we podcasters have been known to do once or twice.)

A great podcast backdrop sets the tone. It builds trust, reinforces your brand, and keeps your viewers focused on you—not your messy bookshelf or piles of laundry.

It can also help reinforce the message or values you are trying to convey through your brand podcast. Say you’re podcasting for environmental activism or sustainability– A background of books on relevant topics, plants, and posters for change may set the right tone. If you’re a tech company, the background might want to lean more toward showing off great equipment and cool lighting. These are just some general ideas, but they help you get the picture. 

Keep your Podcast Backdrop Simple (But Not Boring)

First rule of a video podcast background? Less is more. Avoid clutter, loud patterns, or anything that screams, “I didn’t think this through.” The Starbucks cup on the set of Game of Thrones may have not hurt the show’s fame, but if you’re trying to boost thought leadership, maybe your pile of takeout isn't the right look. 

Choose a clean, minimal setup that lets your brand’s personality shine. A plain wall with a pop of color can work wonders. Add a plant, a framed print relevant to your style, or subtle lighting to make it feel intentional. If your brand has products, don’t be afraid to put a few in the background as well.

Show Off Your Brand

Your video podcast background should scream you. Or in the case of branded podcasts, it should scream your brand. Now, you know your brand better than any of us writing this blog, so we can’t give you the exact background as is (though we can give you some tips about video podcasting setup if you’d like.)

But do your best to follow your brand guidelines. Now, that being said, a green screen of just a plain color and your brand logo is also just a tad drab… It feels like a dry webinar. Podcasting, be it video or audio, is all about humanizing your brand. So make it something real. 

Throw in a few personal touches—your logo or products, a piece of art you love, or items related to your theme. Just keep it consistent.

Lighting: Setting the Tone of Your Show

Lighting can make or break your video podcast background. Good lighting highlights you and makes the backdrop pop.

Natural light is great, but it’s unreliable. Invest in a couple of softbox lights or an LED ring light. We recommend the Logitech Litra Glow. And avoid sitting in front of a window unless you want to look like a silhouette. 

You’ll want front lighting to make you pop, but in the background better to keep low light or colored accents. This is also another place to make the tone really stand out. For example, look at how Crime Junkie keeps things low and dark, setting a bit of an eerie tone for their subject matter.

Video Podcast Background Ideas to Try

While everyone’s podcast backdrop should look different and brand-adjacent, we can share a little inspiration. Here are some examples of how to set up your background, take one that feels right and make it all your own.

1. The Classic Shelf
   A bookshelf with carefully arranged items—think relevant books, awards, or quirky objects. Just don’t overdo it.

2. Minimalist Vibes
   A clean wall with one or two standout elements, like a neon sign or a single piece of art.

3. Branded Studio
   Use your podcast colors and logo to create a custom look. It’s bold and memorable.

4. Textured Wall
   Brick, wood paneling, or even peel-and-stick wallpaper can add depth and character.

5. Virtual Backgrounds
   If you’re low on space, a green screen can save the day. Just keep it professional—no cheesy beach scenes. Use this to add more dynamic visual elements to support your episode content.

Budget-Friendly Backdrop Hacks

There’s no need to rent out a studio or start a home-improvement project yet. Focus your budget on getting the best video equipment for production first. Backdrops can come next. So when you are in need of a quick fix look out for these solutions: 

• Posters: Hang a large poster that fits your theme.

• Fabric Fix: Use a clean, ironed sheet or curtain for a seamless look.

• DIY Lighting: Clip-on desk lamps with daylight bulbs work in a pinch. Play with different angles to create an interesting background.

• Thrift Finds: Scour secondhand stores for affordable, unique decor pieces.

Test Before You Record

Once you’ve set up your podcast backdrop, record a quick test. Check how it looks on camera. Sometimes your camera may catch more than you assumed, so check your whole area on the screen. 

Are the colors flattering? Is anything distracting? Adjust until it feels just right. Then, you’re good to go. 

Final Thoughts on Video Podcast Backdrops

A killer background for your podcast video doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. It just needs to set the tone, reflect your brand, and make your listeners (or viewers) feel like they’re hearing from a real human.

Work with what you’ve got. Then take a step back, and look at your setup. Does it reflect who you want to be on screen? If not, make tweaks where you can. Your audience deserves the best—and so do you.

If you need any help taking your podcast from audio to video, the Lower Street team would love to make it happen. Reach out and tell us about your show.