Photographers will go to extreme lengths to capture “perfect shots.” From using the most expensive cameras to buying all types of photography software tools – professional photographers leave no expenses. But, often, it’s the low-cost photography tools that make all the difference.
Photography backgrounds or backdrops are cost-effective tools that often prove to be critical for successful photoshoots. Well-customized photography backdrops can –
- Make the subjects of the shoot “pop-out.”
- Eliminate unnecessary distractions in the background.
- Help photographers align their shots.
These are just some benefits of using custom-printed backdrops in shoots. But, many photographers steer away from using these backdrops because of two key uncertainties –
- What material should the backdrop be made of to produce the best effects?
- What should be the colors of the backdrops to suit the moods of the shoots?
Let’s clear both these uncertainties.
Which Backdrop Material is the Best for Photoshoots?
When shopping for backdrops, photographers will have the following material options.
- Paper: Ideal for temporary use. Photographers who want to create white backgrounds for model shoots prefer working with paper backdrops. The smooth and clean look of paper backdrops also aids in commercial shoots, product photography, etc.
- Muslin: Ideal for informal shoots. The wrinkled appearance of muslin is good for classy portrait photography. But, premium-quality muslin backdrops are made of 100% cotton. Hence, they’re expensive. Photographers will have to maintain these backdrops to ensure they don’t lose their old-world, quixotic appearances.
- Vinyl: Relatively the newest backdrop material option in the market. Vinyl backdrops are durable. They don’t pick up smudges or wrinkles from daily use. Vinyl backdrops look consistent for years and hang flat whenever users roll/unroll them.
Custom printing vinyl backdrops to give them classic appearances is a good strategy. It’s better than buying super-expensive muslin backdrops. That’s why smart photographers choose to buy ten uniquely customized vinyl backdrops over one expensive muslin backdrop. Some other pros of using vinyl backdrops include –
- Low-cost so photographers can order large backdrops for taking wider shots.
- Easy to store.
- Travel-friendly.
- Durable but easy to carry around.
Modern-day printers can print custom designs, photographs, or colors on vinyl backdrops with high resolutions. That means custom backdrops can look exactly how photographers want them to look. These are the reasons why pros use vinyl backdrops.
Which Colors to Pick for My Vinyl Backdrops?
For several years, white, gray, and black were the only three colors used on backdrops. Now, with HD-printing technology, photographers can print custom colors on their backdrops. Here are some useful color options for backdrops –
- Grey: Ideal when the goal is to focus the viewer’s attention on the subject.
- Black: Good for conveying a sense of class, mystery, and style.
- Red: Arouses feelings of excitement and passion. A recent study revealed that web pages with red backgrounds sell more products. It reinforces the hypothesis that the color red triggers excitement and passion among viewers.
- Yellow: Good for pictures that need to appear cheerful and optimistic.
- Blue: Tranquility, stability, and calmness – these are the emotions blue-colored backdrops can add to your photographs.
Experiment with different backdrop materials and shades to find out which ones suit your shooting style!