Choosing the Right Photography Backdrop
Photography backdrops can make a huge difference in the creativity and professional appearance of your photos. However, different photography backgrounds add different elements to a photo, so choosing the right backdrop can be as critical as choosing the correct camera or lens. With so many different types of studio backdrops available though, sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out which background is right for your shoot.
Before selecting a background, there are a few initial factors you should consider. You’ll want to have a mental composition of how you would like your final shot to appear, this way you can make an informed decision based on your unique needs. Your subject, whether your photo is intended for commercial or personal use, and the location of the shoot can all be important factors to consider.
Some people say the first consideration when choosing backgrounds for photography is cost. Prices do vary widely based on size and style, but the cheapest may not always be the best. If it doesn’t suit your needs or doesn’t light properly you’re not saving money in the long run. Size can also be a crucial factor to consider also. Sometimes bigger is better as you may want to allow plenty of shot framing flexibility. You may think you’re doing a head shot, but could get into trouble if your subject decides on a full body shot and you can’t cover the background.
Once you have an idea of your unique needs, you will be able to make a much more informed decision about the best backdrop for your specific shoot.
As you can see, the question of which photographic background to choose can have a lot of answers. The selection process should start with a mental picture so you’ll know exactly which backdrop is best for you.
Before Choosing a Photo Background
Before selecting a background, there are a few initial factors you should consider. You’ll want to have a mental composition of how you would like your final shot to appear, this way you can make an informed decision based on your unique needs. Your subject, whether your photo is intended for commercial or personal use, and the location of the shoot can all be important factors to consider.
Some people say the first consideration when choosing backgrounds for photography is cost. Prices do vary widely based on size and style, but the cheapest may not always be the best. If it doesn’t suit your needs or doesn’t light properly you’re not saving money in the long run. Size can also be a crucial factor to consider also. Sometimes bigger is better as you may want to allow plenty of shot framing flexibility. You may think you’re doing a head shot, but could get into trouble if your subject decides on a full body shot and you can’t cover the background.

Types of Photography Backgrounds
Vinyl Backgrounds
- Available in 8’x10, 9’x10′, 8’x20′ or 9’x20′
Collapsible Backgrounds
- Opens to 5′ x 6′, collapses to just 26″
Photo by Ryan Walsh
Muslin Backgrounds
- Available in 5’x7′, 5’x10′, 9’10″x12, 9’10″x24′ ‘, 8’x10′, 10’x10′, 10’x12′, 10’x20′, and 10’x24’
Photo by Ryan Walsh
Canvas Backgrounds
- Available in 9’x10 or 9’x20′
Seamless Paper Backgrounds
- Available in 26″x36′, 53″x36′, 107″x36′, 107″x150′
Photo by Ryan Walsh
Green Screen / Chroma Key Backgrounds
- Available in paper, vinyl, muslin, and collapsible options
As you can see, the question of which photographic background to choose can have a lot of answers. The selection process should start with a mental picture so you’ll know exactly which backdrop is best for you.
-Backdrop Express Photography Team
Interested in learning more? Check out more blog posts about photography backdrops, including What Color Seamless Paper Should You Use?Trackback from your site.
Comments (7)
Lilah
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We had a wonderful photographer who shot our wedding all with natural light and I was very happy with how the pictures turned out.
Reply
Wesley Culbertson
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Can’t say enough about this website – its alot better than mine.
Reply
ratedKG
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Checked all the different links that you’ve posted here, good examples. I bought a muslin backdrop (hand-painted and color-washed) last year and they are still useful for me.
Reply
Maya
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family law
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erick holloway
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Very helpful advice in this particular article!
It is the little changes that make the greatest changes.
Reply
canvas prints
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The background is so important. this post was so helpful. thank you.
Reply