Troubleshooting guide
How to fix the problem
Apple menu > System Settings > Wallpaper; choose an Apple picture or add your own photo. In older macOS: System Preferences > Desktop & Screen Saver.
Possible solutions
Choose the method that matches your situation. Start with the simplest suitable option and check the result. If the problem is fixed, you do not need to continue with the other methods.
macOS System Settings background
In newer macOS, open Wallpaper and select a picture or your own photo.
Steps to follow
- Click on the Apple icon in the top left and select System Settings.
- Select Wallpaper.
- Choose a suggested image or add your own.
- Find the local file and select; check the desktop, not just the preview.
Older background menu
If you're using an older system, use System Preferences > Desktop & Screen Saver.
Steps to follow
- In older macOS, choose System Preferences from the Apple menu.
- Open Desktop & Screen Saver and Desktop section.
- Choose a suggested photo or your own and check your desktop. On a newer system, use Wallpaper.
If the problem persists
Try a JPG or PNG image on your local drive and see if it opens in Preview. If the background changes on its own, check the dynamic backgrounds or organization management settings.
Request a repair