1. How to set a background image in Blender version 2.9 and 3
Before you proceed, go to preference settings and then addons. Search for ‘Import images as planes’. Activate the ‘Import images as planes’ addon by checking the box.
There are four methods you can use to set background images in Blender 2.8 and 2.9.
To access three of the four methods, go to 3D View > Add > Image menu, or click Shift + A > Image, then select your preferred option. The first three options will appear as in the image below.
After you choose an option, the following are settings Blender makes available to use with your background image.
Method 1: Reference
They act as regular objects, visible from both sides. They do not appear in renders.
Method 2: Background
It is set to display in front or background. It does not appear in renders.
Method 3: Images as Planes
It is a mesh with geometry and material. It appears in renders.
Method 4: Add background image on camera settings
Select your camera, then to camera settings, and then ‘Background Images’
It appears on camera view only. It does not appear on renders.
2. How to set a background image in Blender 2.79
- Press N on your keyboard. The sidebar will appear. On the sidebar, go to ‘Background Image’ tab. Enable it by checking on the box.
- Press the ‘Add Image’ button then ‘Open’ button to select your background image.
- By default, the background image you select will appear in all views. i.e From Top, Bottom, Front, Back, Left, Right and Camera views.
- If you want the background image to appear on one specific view, click on the ‘Axis’ dropdown and select the view that you would like.
How to add multiple background images
- After adding the first background image using the above steps, click the ‘Add Image’ button again.
- A second row will appear and repeat the above steps. Only this time, use a different image and view.
