An Ultimate Guide to An Ultimate Guide to Photography Photography BackdropsBackdrops

Anything, that can be used to enhance the look of your photograph along with filling the background space, can be referred to as photography backdrops.

The standard backdrops range from the solid colored muslin backdrops in green, black, red, white, and many other colors to the artistic ones featuring building, landscape, etc.

Usually, they are the physical pieces that can be used in a studio or carried along for outdoor shoot.

However, these days, photographers prefer to use digital backdrops.

Types of Backdrops

Here are some of the most common varieties that are used across the globe:

Muslin backdrops in various colors

Paper backdrops; also known as backdrop paper rolls

Painted canvas backdrop: these are only used for studios, as they are very heavy to carry

Textural backdrops having a mottled background

Painted wall can also be used as a backdrop

Creative backdrops featuring various scenes in the background such as a forest or any other imaginative place

Digital backdrops are used for background replacement

What can a backdrop do for you?

Carefully chosen backdrops can reflect the personality and mood of the subject.

A person standing in front of a backdrop of garden will depict a pleasant mood, whereas a lady standing in front of a black backdrop with shadows on face will reflect an anger or stressful mood.

Out-of-the-box ones such as the dyed backdrops improve the presentation of the picture as well as make your subject look beautiful.

With proper lighting, they can highlight the desired things such as the facial expression, skin color, hair color, the sketch of the subject, etc.

Color coordination between the foreground and the background is very important. Make sure that you choose the right background color that will highlight the subject without actually affecting their look.

Never choose a background that will cause a lot of distractions and take the attention away from the subject. The idea is not to highlight the background but to drag a lot of attention towards the subject.

How to choose the right backdrop?

If your subject is standing too close to the backdrop or if the background has lines or blemishes, the viewer will be less attracted towards the subject.

If you are using artistic ones, be careful of the objects in the background that seem to protrude from the subject’s head such as a tree or a pole. These elements cause a lot of distractions and also make your picture look humorous.

Never choose a backdrop that is cluttered or else your picture will also look messy.

The best way to get the most out of the backdrop is to evaluate it before taking the pictures. Most photographers tend to ignore them and later, regret on the bad results.