The Essential Guidelines to Backdrops
Getting backdrops is one the easiest ways to add personality and style to your studio photography or videography.
Whether you are shooting people or products, the backdrop behind your subject can make or break your image. Cluttered backgrounds are distracting and draw attention away from your subject. And if you're attempting to sell products online, a cluttered image may eliminate sales.
Selecting a backdrop may seem like a relatively simple task. However, there are endless styles of backdrops available in different sizes, patterns, and materials.
Backdrop Size Options
There are a few things to consider when choosing a backdrop size, including the size of your studio and the size of your subject. Portrait subjects should typically be pulled at least 3’ away from your backdrop to prevent shadows and allow for easy lighting. Of course, this distance your subject will be from the backdrop will be altered when taking overhead or backlit/high key shots. Below, we’ll discuss both the length and width restrictions of common backdrops.
A 3.5-foot wide backdrop is the smallest size that we recommend starting with. These backdrops are a perfect choice if you are shooting newborns, pets, or small products. 3.5-foot backdrops are easy to store and can also be used for tight headshots. These small backdrops are typically the most cost-effect option as well.
A 3.5-foot long backdrop is most likely your smallest length option. These backdrops are too short for standard portraits. They are, however, completely adequate for tight headshots, babies or toddlers, small products, and small pets.
A 5 or 6-foot wide backdrop is a great size for headshots and ¾-length portraits. These backdrops are easy to manage and still only requires minimal space to set up. These backgrounds are ideal for event photographers who often work in busy spaces or for photographers working in a small home studio. While 5 to 6-foot backdrops offer more flexibility than 3.5-foot backdrops, they still become a bit tight if when photographing a couple or full-length portrait.
A 6 or 7-foot long backdrop is typically ideal for ¾-length portrait of any average sized individual. This length of backdrop is perfect for headshots and portraits that are not full-body length.
A 10 or 12-foot long backdrop is an essential addition to your studio if you plan on shooting full-length portraits or larger product shots.
With a 20 or 24-foot long backdrop you’ll be able to cover just about every style of portraiture and product photography. These backdrops are great if you want to photograph a larger family full-length, or have a video shoot that requires movement. These long backdrops are great for when you want to pull your subjects far from your backdrop as well.
Backdrop Mounting Options
There are many systems available for mounting backdrops, including some DIY solutions and some more professional options. Below, we’ll discuss the most popular solutions to help you determine which option is best for you.
The most simple way to hang a backdrop is by using wall hooks. This solution is suitable for people using smaller and lighter backdrops. 5 x 7-foot Backdrops and 3.5 x 3.5-foot backdrops feature built-in grommets for use with hooks. While you can install these into your wall, we recommend picking up a pack of removable wall hooks to protect your walls. They are usually under $10 USD per pack.
Here in Dbackdrop.com we have various sizes for your choices and also we accept customization, just contact us for more information if you need.
You can get your exclusive coupon code here for 15% off.
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