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Mac is a device that offers diverse features and customization options. One of the easiest ways to customize your device is by changing the background or wallpaper. With a simple change in the background, you can give a fresh look to your Mac. However, some Mac users may face difficulty in changing the background to a picture of their preference. Therefore, this blog will guide you through some easy steps on how to change Mac background to a picture, along with some additional tips.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of How to Change Mac Background to A Picture
While changing the Mac background to a picture seems like an easy task, some users find it challenging. One of the primary reasons for this challenge is Mac’s latest operating system with new modifications. However, the process of changing the background may also slightly differ for different versions of Mac. Therefore, It’s essential to prepare the following things before you proceed to change the Mac background to a picture.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before getting started, here are some things that you should prepare for:
1. Find and prepare the picture you want to set as background
2. Verify that the picture is in a compatible format
3. Check the size of the picture. It should be large enough for a Mac background
Once you have completed these preparations, follow the methods mentioned below to achieve your desired background.
Method 1: Via System Preferences
Many Mac users may not know that they can change their background picture by going to their system preferences. This method is the easiest way to change the background to a picture of your choice.
Steps:
1. Click on "Apple Menu" on the top left corner of the screen
2. Click on "System Preferences"
3. Click on "Desktop & Screen Saver"
4. Click to select "Desktop"
5. Click on the "Pictures" folder on the left sidebar
6. Select the picture you want to set as your Mac’s background
7. Adjust your picture’s orientation by clicking on the drop-down menu next to "Fit to"
8. Close the "Desktop & Screen Saver" window
Pros:
– It’s simple and straightforward
– You can select a picture from pictures folder
Cons:
– There are limited options to set up i.e., you can’t use shortcuts or change the old background.
Method 2: Via Right-click on the Picture
You can also change the Mac background by directly selecting the picture file and setting it as the desktop background. This method will help you skip a few steps that Method 1 requires.
Steps:
1. Select the picture you want to set as a desktop background
2. Right-click on the picture and select "Services"
3. Click on "Set Desktop Picture"
Pros:
– Requires fewer steps
– You can bypass the accessibility of a desktop property
– Suitable if you have a few pictures to change frequently
Cons:
– Does not provide much flexibility in setting the picture’s size and orientation.
Method 3: Via Preview
Another method for setting a picture as a desktop background is using the Preview app. This method is an excellent alternative to changing the background if you are already in the Preview application.
Steps:
1. Open the picture in Preview
2. Click on "File" and select "Set Desktop Picture"
Pros:
– Good if you have a preview app open
– You can bypass desktop property accessibility
– Simple and easy to use
Cons:
– Fewer options for customizing orientation and size
Why Can’t I Change the Mac Background to A Picture?
You may experience some issues while changing the background picture to your preference. Here are some reasons why you can’t change the Mac background to a picture and how to fix them.
Q1: Mac does not allow changes to the wallpaper
A: You can fix this issue by creating a new admin or admin user account; this step may help you get past the underlying problem and change the background to your preference.
Q2: Format of Picture is Incompatible
A: Ensure that the picture file is in a compatible format. The formats that Mac accepts are JPG, JPEG, BMP, PNG, PDF, PSD, TIF, and GIF.
Q3: Size of Picture is Small
A: Make sure the size of the picture is sufficient enough to fit a Mac screen. If your picture size is less than 1280×800, it may not fit the screen, and the background screen will appear black.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you customize your Mac background.
1. Customize the picture fit
2. Modify the background image with iPhoto
3. Try a background app like Wallpaper Wizard or John’s Background Switcher.
5 FAQs about How to Change Mac Background to A Picture
Q1: Can I set multiple pictures as desktop backgrounds?
A: Yes, you can use an app like Wallpaper Wizard, which allows you to set multiple pictures as desktop backgrounds that switch periodically.
Q2: Can I use a web page as background using macOS?
A: No, you can’t use a web page as a desktop background using Mac’s native solution, but you can try third-party solutions like Wallcat, Unsplash, and more.
Q3: Does the background picture affect the computer’s performance or battery life?
A: A background picture can have an impact on battery life if it’s a video. However, if the background is a static image, it won’t impact CPU or battery life performance.
Q4: Can I change the background to a solid color instead of a picture?
A: Yes, You can change your background to a solid color by selecting the "Solid Colors" option in "Desktop & Screen Saver."
Q5: Can I change the desktop background for multiple workspaces?
A: Yes, You can set different backgrounds for each workspace by going to Mission Control and selecting the workspace. Then, you can change the desktop background.
Conclusion
Changing the Mac background to a picture may seem like a daunting task. However, it is easier than you think, and with the methods mentioned above, you can quickly set any picture as your desktop background. Preparing the right image format, size, and orientation can help you derive the best results. Always make sure to verify the picture before setting it as the desktop background. Also, you can explore some additional tips and FAQs mentioned above to improve your background customization.