Category Archives: Tutorial

A Wide Range of Product Photography Backdrops

The photo of a product is what creates the appeal for the product and inspires the customer to purchase. And to get the perfect product photo, you need perfect product photography backdrops too. This is why product photography in itself, has taken the centre stage in marketing today. Every product needs that perfect picture that makes consumers fall in love with it. 

Product photography refers to a strategic photoshoot with the goal of increasing sales. It is way more than just clicking pretty pictures. Product photography requires proper planning to capture a photo, that not only increases the sales appeal but also reflects the image of the brand. It needs to show the product in a flawless light while highlighting its most attractive angles. 

When it comes to telling the story of a product or a brand, one thing is essential – product photography backdrops. You need the right backdrop to make sure the product is the centre of the image and yet, it should not be so boring that the viewer pays no attention.

What are product photography backdrops? 

Product photography backdrops are artistic backgrounds that enhance the quality and appeal of your product photo. They highlight your product by giving depth, texture, and finesse to the image. They make your product look more professional and your overall online profile more reliable. 

Product photography backdrops come in a wide variety of colours, patterns, and materials. These varieties of options allow you to experiment with different reflections that the same product can create on the buyer’s mind.

At Studiobackdrops.com, we offer you the widest range of product photography backdrops. From food photography to jewellery backdrops, to skincare products, you name it and we can provide a niche backdrop for your item. 

With these backdrops, you not just increase your online sales and popularity but also build a statement brand image for yourself. 

Browsing materials for product photography

Product photography backdrops can be of several types. While colours and patterns are essential features, experts consider the material of the backdrop as the first and foremost priority. 

There are different kinds of materials for product photography backdrops. Paper, Muslin, Vinyl, and Canvas are some of the popular options.

Paper backdrops 

Paper backdrops give you a smooth and even background that does not interrupt the product. They come in seamless paper rolls in a huge variety of colours. You can use the paper roll with a backdrop stand or just cut out as much as you need and paste it behind the product. However, if handled incorrectly, paper backdrops can also form wrinkles. It is also difficult to clean the paper backdrop once you step on them or something gets spilt on it. It is easier to cut away the paper you have used and unroll some more for your next setup.

Vinyl backdrops

Vinyl backdrops are very easy to clean and very long-lasting. These backdrops are waterproof which adds to their durability. Usually, vinyl backdrops don’t give you the matte finish you need but our range of vinyl is completely matte. Another point that makes them very convenient is that they are wrinkle-free. so when it comes to product photography backdrops they seem like the easiest choice. But they can be very expensive in comparison to other options. 

Canvas Backdrops

Canvas backdrops are the preferred option by most photographers when it comes to product photography. Our range of canvas backdrops have a rich texture, and unique colour composition, and are made of premium quality materials. The reason most product photographers opt for canvas is the kind of depth and texture they add to the images. This cannot be achieved by any other material. Moreover, our canvas backdrops are all handpainted with the most premium materials. They are very durable and super easy to set up and use. And the best part is – they are spillproof!

How to figure out the right material for your shoot?

In an increasingly competitive online market, good photos of your product are the first point of attraction for your customers. It is very important that your product photography is targeting the right audience. 

For this, choosing the right material for a photography backdrop is very important. The right material depends on two crucial factors:

  • The product for which you are shooting 
  • Your vision for the product and brand

The product for which you are shooting is what determines the material you should go for. Paper backdrops can work for e-commerce materials like jewellery, bags, cosmetics etc. But for food items, paper backdrops are the wrong choice. Moreover, the item can get spilt on the backdrop and ruin it. For this, water-proof backdrops such as canvas and vinyl are considered better options. 

Secondly, the material of the backdrop also depends on your vision of the product. The colour scheme of the backdrop can immensely help in setting the mood that you envision for your product. With its classy texture and variety of colour options, canvas backdrops are the right choice for most products. 

Why Canvas is the best for product photography? 

Our experts at Studiobackdrops.com, after carefully studying the demands of product photography, have come to the conclusion that canvas backdrops are the best for product photoshoots. 

Quality – These backdrops are made up of 300 gsm canvas which makes them very easy to set up and use. The quality of the material is premium, ensuring a highly professional and finished look. The nature of canvas is such that it blends in the background effortlessly while highlighting the main subject of the frame.

DurabilityCanvas backdrops are very durable as they are made of 300gsm canvas and coated in fine-art paints. The layers of paint coating the backdrop gives them extra thickness. They can last you for years with just a little bit of tender, loving care.

VarietyCanvas offers an amazing range of rich colours and textures. Photographers love such vibrant options for product photoshoots. Apart from colours, canvas also offers a wide range of textures and patterns too. Every backdrop is handpainted, giving you the edge in terms of uniqueness.

Portability– Canvas is considered a good investment because you can use them anytime anywhere. They are extremely travel-friendly, so you can easily carry them to different shooting locations. These backdrops can be rolled and safely stored in their case and you are good to go! 

Hence, canvas backdrops are the key to creating a high-profile product photograph. They not only improve the quality of photography but also save a lot of time and resources that go into post-photography processing. 

And in the post-pandemic era, when a large number of customers have shifted to online shopping, you cannot compromise with product photography. Canvas backdrops ensure that your product photograph stands out in the competitive e-commerce biz. These backdrops can assist you in not only raising your sales but also in carving out a signature brand image on Amazon, eBay, etc.  

Are Photography Backdrops Important?

For photographers, photography backdrops are always a nagging question. Are they necessary for a photo shoot? Can they make any difference in the end results? Are they a good investment or unnecessary expenditure?

The truth is, they can easily make or break a photo. While clicking professional pictures, it is important to understand the significance of backdrops. They not only would give you the edge as a photographer but also save a lot of your time. Professional photographers care a great deal about the different backdrops they use. And there are multiple reasons for it. The biggest one is that they provide a clutter-free background that makes sure the subject is highlighted perfectly.

What are photography backdrops?

As the name suggests, photography backdrops are used in the background of photos and videos. They enhance the quality of the image by providing a unique surface for clicking pictures. They are also important when trying to convey the theme of the photos. Usually, most photographers prefer plain backdrops as they remove distractions and help the subject shine in the frame. Even in the digital era that we live in, photography backdrops are frequently used in studios, owing to their easy-to-use trait. Editing images through a computer usually takes a lot of time, and various photographers have admitted that the use of photography backdrops is their preferred choice in studio photography.

Different types of Photography Backdrops

There are several different kinds of backdrops that one can opt for while shooting. They have different uses and your choice should depend on various factors. But there are no hard and fast rules and you can always use whichever backdrop you prefer.

Paper Backdrops

Seamless paper backdrops are the most common type of backdrop you can find. Available in a variety of colours, they are usually 4.5ft to 9ft in width. These are smooth, non-reflective papers of minimum 125gsm thickness. They are used extensively in portrait photography, product photography, commercial photography and videography. White, black, and grey are the most popular colours in the seamless paper backdrops. The best part about paper backdrops is that they provide a smooth, even background. It makes them perfect for all kinds of photography and videography.

Muslin Backdrops

A cotton weave fabric, muslin easily holds dyes and paints. This quality is what makes muslin backdrops so popular as they have a huge variety of colours and designs. Our Muslin backdrops are made from a minimum 165gsm fabric. They are lightweight, portable, and have vibrant colours. Their different textures and patterns give various options to the photographers.

They are of two main varieties – Single Colour Muslin and Mottled Muslin. The Single Colour Muslin backdrops are one solid colour that gives you the same effect as paper backdrops. They are seamless and provide the same infinite background that paper does. Mottled Muslin backdrops are created by different dyeing techniques to make unique designs. We have several different kinds of Mottled Muslin backdrops – 3D Mottled, Crush Dyed Mottled, Washed Mottled, Handpainted Mottled, Solid Mottled and Reversible Mottled. Every category has a special dyeing technique that produces different end results.

These backdrops are great for shooting close-up portraits as they have a gorgeous texture. As a result, they are also great for fashion photography or maternity and baby photography as they are very easy to use. They provide vibrant backgrounds that are perfect for adding extra colours and textures to your images.

Canvas Backdrops

Canvas backdrops are made of a minimum 250gsm fabric. They are a classy variety that offers a wide range of subtle and dramatic patterns. They provide an interesting background to a portrait without competing with the main subject for attention. We offer two kinds of canvas backdrops – Solid and Handpainted. The handpainted category offers unique designs and patterns all created by a team of experienced artists. Abstract and airbrushed designs are especially preferred for highlighting the subject in depth. With Scenic and Patterned backdrops, we provide vibrant sceneries and elaborate designs that free you from the hassle of creating a set. 

We also have a range of Tabletop backdrops that are created from canvas. These backdrops are meant for food and product photography. Each backdrop is made with 300gsm canvas that is then hand-painted with premium paints. The coating of paint on these backdrops makes them not only long-lasting but also completely spill-proof!

Wrinkle Resistant Backdrops

There are several kinds of wrinkle-resistant backdrops present in the photography industry right now. A backdrop being wrinkle-resistant is quite an important requirement for a lot of photographers. While shooting, it is extremely difficult to fix a backdrop if it forms wrinkles. And it is hours of wasted time fixing the same thing in post-processing. That is why polyester backdrops have become a popular choice with all kinds of photographers. Even Vinyl backdrops are highly wrinkle resistant and provide a smooth surface to shoot.

Both these materials are very easy to handle and are long-lasting. When compared to tried and tested paper, muslin, or canvas – polyester and vinyl are not on the same level of trust. Polyester promises you a smooth surface every time but not every polyester backdrop on the market is of good quality. Our polyester backdrops have been created after months of research and have gone through vigorous testing to make sure they uphold their quality.

The Versatility of Photography Backdrops

Photography backdrops form a core component of photography. It doesn’t matter what kind of photography is your line of work. Food photography, fashion photography, maternity photography, or if you’re into making videos for YouTube, or even if you are into movies, you will always use photography backdrops to get the best outcomes for your pictures.

Any professional photographer or videographer would tell you the significance of the photography backdrops. They are an essential part of studio photography. They provide context to an image and prevent the possibility of cluttered backgrounds that are distracting, to say the least.

The materials used to create backdrops are the main reason they provide specific use for specific photography. Paper backdrops are used for fashion photography and high-key projects like e-commerce shoots. They direct the focus on the subject and prevent any disruption in the background. Its smooth surface gives it an edge over other backdrops when it comes to professional fashion photography. Even for special effects, a smooth-surfaced green screen is easier to handle.

Likewise, if you decide to add texture to the background, cloth backdrops come into use. You can also find painted backdrops which help a great deal in setting up a suitable background with respect to the subject. The scenic canvas backdrops provide unique and vibrant sets, removing the hassle of going to a location or building a set. Green cotton muslins are great for adding special effects. But because of their fabric, they tend to crease up, which then requires steaming them before reusing.

Finding the best backdrop according to your need

As much as the photography backdrops are important, you can’t simply choose any backdrop and hope to create the desired effect for your pictures. Context comes into play here, and so do the environment and the theme of the photography. This is why various kinds of backdrops exist that suit different types of photography and video projects.

Learning which photography backdrop to choose is an art in itself. You don’t have to spend a lot of time choosing the right backdrop. It is always easy when as a photographer your instinct tells you the kind of texture that would go well with the subject. On one hand, it’s the client’s desire that you have to adhere to, on the other hand, it’s a test of your photography skills.

Think about the end results while choosing your backdrop

If you’re going to click photos of a model or a product, you would not want the background to mingle with the subject – the product – in the front. Using a smooth background will keep the subject shining in the photo, and enhance it. And when creating videos with special effects, smooth-surfaced backdrops make it easy to create an error-free video later.

Choosing a backdrop that can clearly separate the subject from itself, has effective portability, and doesn’t hinder the focus of the subject, is important. Because a good photographer is one who has the knowledge of a wide range of photography backdrops. And knows how to switch between them in a manner that not only yields amazing results but also saves a lot of time.

Photography backdrops are essential to photography. They give you a variety of options and thus increase the chances of a final product that is enriching and delightful. Apart from providing massive support in the frame, the presence of backgrounds of different textures and patterns also expresses the amount of dedication and consideration you have invested into your photography.

How to choose the right photography backdrop?

Regardless of whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, a photography backdrop is something that you need. There is such a wide variety available that you might question which one suits you best. 

The main purpose of a backdrop is to give you a dynamic background that allows for constant high-quality output. It works in tandem with the lighting to provide the optimum results, whatever your setting may be. A photoshoot can entirely depend on the quality of material used in the making of a backdrop. 

Paper is good for the seamless look

When it comes to shooting in a studio setup, paper backdrops are a no-brainer as they are very easy to use, and can be set up very quickly if you have an established setup. They are usually thick, ranging anywhere between 125 GSM to 145 GSM, making them resistant to wear and tear. 

Paper blends seamlessly without overshadowing the product. They come in various sizes so that selection can be made according to the needs of the photographer. The paper backdrops are to be used with a stand or a backdrop system that is mounted on the wall or ceiling. 

You can also use a backdrop without a stand by simply cutting out the portion you need for your set. The best thing about paper backdrops is that when they get dirty, you can simply cut off that part and unroll a fresh side.

However, due to their heavy nature, paper backdrops are not ideal for on-location shooting. It requires higher maintenance as it needs to be put away carefully after every usage. You also need to be very careful while stepping on the paper or around it as it can get dirty or ruined. If you are shooting by yourself and setting it up alone it will be difficult to handle the paper. 

Since they don’t interfere with the product, they are a popular choice while shooting products. Another reason why paper backdrops are preferred in commercial photography is the smooth appearance it provides, ensuring quick and hassle-free shooting.

Picture Credits : Rohan Sachdeva

Muslin’s portability makes it the popular choice of Photography Backdrops

Muslin backdrops have been used by professional photographers for decades now for multiple reasons. A Muslin backdrop works flawlessly in every indoor and outdoor location. All of our muslin backdrops are made out of 100% high-quality, non-reflective cotton, making them an excellent choice for both video production, regular portrait and commercial photography. 

Muslin backdrops are available in thickness of 165gsm and are suitable for heavy as well as regular use. They are more affordable when compared to other categories of photography backdrops, making them popular with amateur photographers.  

Muslin is a breathable fabric that is extremely forgiving in terms of handling and mobility. Another advantage of muslin backdrops is there are endless options when it comes to designs and colours. You can use these backdrops any way you want – you can spread it down on the floor, hang them using the rod pocket, and walk on them without fear. You can easily remove any wrinkles that appear on the backdrop with an iron or a fabric steamer.

Picture Credits : Manish Malhotra

Canvas is the classic photography backdrop

If you are on the lookout for textures in backdrops, canvas backdrops are the way to go. Since canvas is good at absorbing paints, it is the perfect material for creating different textures. Canvas is a textured fabric on its own and the material we use ranges from 250gsm to 300gsm. 

We offer you the largest range of handpainted canvas backdrops. Every backdrop is meticulously crafted by professional artisans who have decades of industry experience. They are created using industry-standard paints to give you the perfect matte finish that never cracks. 

When you invest in a canvas backdrop, you are investing in a backdrop that will last you for years to come. A canvas backdrop will elevate your images regardless of the setting. It gives you extra texture and depth in your images. We recommend that you store them with care and spot clean with a mild detergent if it happens to get dirty.

Picture Credits : Kalyani Ambike

Polyester is the New and Popular Photography Backdrop

Our range of Polyester backdrops is a fairly new player in the world of backdrops. Cheap polyester backdrops have been present in the market for a very long but they are not of the greatest quality. Any photographer who has used them understands why they are not the first choice for photoshoots. 

Our range of polyester backdrops has been created after months of research. This new polyester fabric that we offer has been tested several times to ensure that it is highly wrinkle resistant. The fabric is also completely stain-proof and can be washed as many times as you need. 

Our wrinkle-resistant range of polyester is extremely breathable and resistant to wear and tear. They come in solid single colours and are suitable for catalogue and portfolio shoots. Since the polyester is washable and extremely lightweight, the backdrop becomes portable to a fault, and a hassle-free choice for outdoor settings. 

The opaque texture and excellent light absorption by the fabric make it perfect for photo and video creation. They can also be used as a perfect green screen setup.

We know that Paper blends in to give you a smooth finish, polyester is highly wrinkle-resistant, and lightweight, and Muslin is available in the largest variety ever. Canvas, with handpainted options, open new doors to creativity. Each material serves a different purpose and we hope this blog has helped you understand their usage better.

 

Studio Lights – All you need to know

It is a well known fact that studio lights are a necessary part of photography. As an amateur photographer, you might start off learning photography by depending on natural light. But as professionals everywhere agree, moving on towards using studio lights for photography is a crucial step for every amateur.

The natural light from the sun and moon is free and you won’t need to spend a penny for it. However, it is not a source of light that can be controlled. The light from the sun in the morning and evening, is best suited for photography. But waiting for the golden hour to click images isn’t the best use of any photographer’s time. The light from the sun can also be too harsh for several camera applications. So, to be dependent on natural light for your photography means you are restricting yourself.

What are studio lights?

Studio lights are essential tools for photographers to illuminate their images and videos. Lighting is a very important tool when it comes to controlling the image. And using studio lights in an effective way is an art in itself. It improves the quality of your photos and can offer some creative assistance that can set your final product apart from others. They are a common sight in studios, and the variety of lights tell every one of them has a specific use for different kinds of photography.

How important are studio lights for photography?

Lighting forms an important component in professional photography. Playing with lights isn’t simply about highlighting the subject or creating darkness, but also about the mood, the vibrancy and the tone of the photography. A professional photographer would know how light would impact the picture based on its placement.

Their knowledge of contrast helps them use the studio lights in an effective manner. Without the proper usage of lights, the photograph can be blurry or grainy. The understanding of one’s camera limitations and thus using the studio lights according to those restrictions can also yield outstanding results.

The different kinds of studio lights

Continuous Lights

Continuous lights are those that stay on constantly, giving you a stable source of light. They give you a preview of how the final image will look, as with these lights you can see what will be captured in the camera. There are two kinds of continuous lights

Hot Lights

Traditionally, hot lights are what have been used to create images and videos. They produce a lot of heat while they are on, and they provide a warm source of light.

Tungsten Lights: The best example of hot lights is Tungsten Lights. They are the most commonly used light source in professional fixtures as they are small, bright, and affordable. They produce a light with the colour temperature of 3200K and it is best to adjust the white balance in your camera while using them. The light emitted from tungsten lights covers the entirety of the visible light spectrum and beyond, which means they produce rich, vibrant and accurate colour. They can burn for hours but they require a lot of power and heavy duty fixtures. They are a great investment if you need something powerful and affordable.

Options available in India : Digitek DPL003, Metro Cine Light Multy

Cool Lights

Fluorescent light: These lights are often used for product photography. They are energy-efficient, and they don’t overheat. They come in multiple hues, like yellow, red and green. These lights consume less electricity and offer a diffused bright light which gives a lower contrast. Using a fluorescent white balance setting is recommended while using fluorescent lights.

Options Available: Sonia Trilite

LED light: LED lights are perfect for adjusting colour temperature. The lights can be modified or adjusted according to your need, as they are dimmable. Through LED lights, colours can be captured with more intensity than they are in real life, thus saving you a lot of time in post-processing your image. Because they are cool in nature, they provide a comfortable atmosphere for the photographers and the subjects.

Options Available: DIGITEK D-200ML, Godox SL60

Strobe Lights

Strobe lights give out a multiple bright burst of light. They have a power output between 100 to 1000 watts. The higher the power, the longer the distance you can use strobe lights from. They are also known as moonlights. Because of their immense power, these lights can be placed farther from the subject. One of their unique qualities is that while shooting outdoors, these lights can overpower sunlight and give you the desired effect without any external interference. They recharge quickly and you can take multiple shots in a shorter span of time. They are often confused and interchangeably used with flash lights that perform the same purpose, but are smaller units that are usually used on-camera. There are three types of strobe lights.

Battery-powered:

Battery-powered strobe lights come in handy in case of a mobile setup. These lights come with a variety of settings that can help you make the best use of light. The battery-powered strobe light systems also include a hotkey that can turn any camera into a wireless.

Shoe Mount:

The shoe mount is a bracket placed on the top of a camera. It has an adjustable head which can be used around to make the light bounce off surfaces. Shoe mounts provide extra light in case of darkness, as the addition of flash gives a boost to light and makes the subject visible enough to be clicked.

Monoblocks:

Monoblocks are usually powered by AC power sources. It has a light head and a power source, both in one compact housing. One of its important functions is to allow the photographers to preview the flash before clicking the picture, and thus adjust the settings beforehand. This becomes possible through the modeling light.

For all types of lights, be it continuous, strobe or flash, a monolight lighting kit is a great tool which provides you with an opportunity to arrange a complex lighting setup. Monolight lighting kits have different accessories in them. Some may contain softboxes, others may have boom arms, some may have snoot, and so on. These lights come with flash heads, which can be of varying numbers. These provide a great deal of compactness and offer various lighting techniques, given they use multiple heads.

Choosing the right studio lights

As professional photographers, it is obvious that you’d like to take your time before choosing the right camera and lenses. Yet, in the quest for that perfect camera which enhances your photography and produces incredible results, often the importance of lights is snubbed. Studio lights are an essential element of professional photography. Their usage sets the theme and tone of the photograph and boosts its quality. This is why it’s important to understand how to choose the right kind of studio lights. There are different lights used for different purposes in studio photography.

Key Light

Key light is the most crucial element for an artificial light source. As the name suggests, it is always going to be the primary source of light despite you setting up a multi-light source. It makes or breaks your images.

Fill Light

Fill light brightens the shadows caused by the key light. It is an extra light to make sure the distribution of light is even and the subject is well lit.

Hair Light

Hair light is supposed to light up only a small portion of the subject. In this, the light beam is narrow, so as to not fall on the large part of your subject. If you want to highlight a larger area, you have to move the light further from the subject.

Background Light

Background lights prevent your background from getting dark due to different lights thrown at the subject. They also help in removing the shadows cast on the background. It is usually dimmer than the key light, but can also be equal to it in power.

Camera Mounted Flash

The advantage of camera mounted flashes is that they are portable and are easier to move around than the light stands. Outdoors, they serve as fill lights, filling up the shadows perfectly if set in low light. The camera mounted flash is mostly used in receptions and other ceremonies, due to their portability.

Depending on the type of photography you like, the lights vary. It is also about whether you want to shoot outdoors or indoors. It comes down to your budget as well. Studio lights can make or break your image. With varying qualities, they offer a wide range of options to help your photography shine and produce a smile on your client’s face. With an insight to the kind of lights there are, you can be a master of photography skills, and grow considerably as a professional photographer.

Do you need backdrops as a Fashion Influencer?

Fashion photography no longer remains the domain of highly influential and experienced photographers. In fact, new players have entered the game in the form of digital creators who create stunning visuals in their homes with much more affordable equipment. It is one of the most popular kinds of content on Instagram. And if you are a fashion influencer, or aspire to be one, then this blog will guide you through the process of how important photography backdrops are to the content you create.

Make Your Content Professional as a Fashion Influencer

While you can easily create images and videos with your phone and no fancy light setup, it is not going to be the same as professional creators on the platform. You can choose a great setting but it will not be the same as the content shot in a studio space. You might think making your visuals look like they are shot in a studio space is not important. But let us tell you that it is. People love images and videos that have a high production value and that look much better than anything they can create. It is all about making things look aspirational. If you decide to post normal, everyday clothes as a fashion blogger, then would your audience still be interested in your work?

Backdrops are a standard in most kinds of photography, but especially in fashion. Most studios stock an entire range of photography backdrops. They are a necessity when it comes to creating fashion content because they provide the quality background needed to display the clothing. They give you a clutter-free space that instantly looks professional.

Backdrops Bring Focus To Your Content

Backdrops are the easiest way to get rid of all the noise in the background and minimize all distractions. They ensure that the focus is completely centred on the subject of the shoot. Whether it is an outfit, makeup, jewellery, shoes, or just the person in the image, the focus remains solidly on the subject when a backdrop is in play.

There are three broad categories of backdrops used all over the world – Paper backdrops, Muslin backdrops, and Canvas backdrops. Paper backdrops come in one single colour and are often without any texture, made to give you a seamless effect. While Muslin and Canvas come in single colours and in painted variations too. All these backdrops have one thing in common – they are all non-reflective surfaces that absorb light. Any shine or reflection you would get from other surfaces is eliminated with the use of a backdrop.

The biggest benefit of a backdrop is that it gives you a complete set in itself. All you need is a backdrop stand to set it up properly and it removes everything unwanted from your shot. Whether you are using a paper backdrop or a cloth backdrop, it helps you reduce noise from your environment.

What Backdrops can you use as a Fashion Influencer?

There are benefits to both Muslin and Paper backdrops and we’ll tell you about both.
Paper is the first choice of industry professionals and it is everywhere in studio setups. They come in the form of a roll, so you can easily put them up on a backdrop stand and unrolled for usage. Seamless paper backdrops or single colour paper backdrops are the most popular ones. There are printed versions and paper backdrops with patterns but Content Creators often use single colour paper backdrops.

All you need to know about paper backdrops.

Paper backdrops are completely seamless and give you a smooth and even texture. It is the seamless quality of the paper that makes it more popular among Fashion Influencers everywhere. They provide the perfect plain background that helps in highlighting different coloured outfits and unique prints, patterns, and designs.

However, they are a little bulky and you can’t handle the paper roll alone because of its weight. If you are not careful with the storage of your paper backdrop, it might end up forming waves or creases through the paper. The paper roll has to be rolled up tightly and secured with tape to keep it fixed in place. And since they come in the form of a roll, they need large spaces to work with.

All you need to know about muslin backdrops

Muslin backdrops also give you the same seamless background that is smooth and even. They are less reflective than paper backdrops and will be easier to light. There are two broad categories of muslin backdrops, the Solid Muslin and the Mottled Muslin backdrops. They have more texture to them and they also come with various designs. Muslin backdrops are great for close up portraits and they will give you more dynamic and dramatic images.

The best thing about muslin backdrops is that they are very lightweight and you can carry them anywhere you want. You can easily create a setup in a small space with muslin backdrops. They are also very easy to store and if you take care of them, they can last you for several years. And, they are much more affordable too.

As Muslin is a 100% cotton fabric, it is a material that can get natural wrinkles. And it’s not possible to keep it free of all kinds of creases and folds. But you can easily get rid of them with a handy steam iron.

What Colour Backdrops to Choose as a Fashion Influencer?

If you want to play it safe, then white is the best option for a fashion content creator. It is perfect works with the entire spectrum of colours and it will always highlight your outfit when you click a picture against it. You can also experiment with different lighting setups and add different coloured highlights to your white backdrop. White, Super White, Bright White, Bone, Cream are different shades of white you can go for. However, at the end of the day, white can also make your content look like e-commerce photos and videos.

Another popular colour is grey, ranging from Slate grey, Thunder Gray, Dove Grey, Lunar Grey, Platinum Grey, every possible shade. Grey is also popular for its neutrality just like white. It highlights the entire spectrum of colours and stays in the background, providing you with a solid platform to shoot with.

Beige is a colour that has risen in popularity very quickly. Lately, more and more Fashion Influencers are opting for Beige, Wheat, Tan backdrops as it has become quite trendy. Unlike white and grey, it has a more noticeable presence in the background. But just like the previous two colours, it also does a great job of highlighting different colours. It is a colour that compliments Indian skin tones and works perfectly with all types of Indian complexions. When the backdrop matches your skin tone, the makeup and apparel pop even more.

Go big and bold with colours and textures

Blue, pink, orange green, yellow, black, there are so many colour options you can go for. But the question is, do you want to stand out from the crowd and make that statement? There are many fashion influencers who have opted for bright and bold colours and their content is even more compelling. Mottled muslin is also a great option if you want to play with varieties of colours and textures. They are created with different colours and dyes, and there is a texture that appears in your visuals.

Now that you know everything there is to know about backdrops, use them to create content and become the Fashion Influencer you aspire to be.

Muslin Backdrops – The Dos and Don’ts

A versatile and long-lasting product, muslin backdrops are used in theatre production, studio photography, video production, and more. Muslin backdrops have a very long and rich history and both professionals and novices use them.  And we are sure you must have come across several versions of these cloth backdrops in your photography career. The heavy-duty curtains they use in school and college theatres? They are all made of muslin.

Here is a comprehensive guide to muslin backdrops. It has everything you need to know before buying the photography backdrop and how to do proper maintenance afterwards.

What are Muslin Backdrops?

Muslin backdrops are made of 100% cotton fabric and coloured with dyes. The solid material is lightweight, easy to set up and use, and remains the same colour even after years of usage.

Our muslin backdrops are made with a cotton fabric that is resistant to wear and tear. We work with the best textile manufacturers in India to stay up to date with industry standards and give you better quality time after time. The fabric we use is 100% Indian cotton and ranges from 165gsm to 350gsm.

We offer you several different kinds of Muslin Backdrops – Mottled Muslin, Single Colour Muslin, and Portable Backdrops. The difference between the three categories is the painting and dyeing techniques used to create the patterns and designs as well as their utilities.

Mottled Muslin backdrops are one seamless piece of cotton fabric. We create them with creative dyeing techniques, some of which are our in-house speciality. And the best feature is that they help you get better lighting as the backdrop removes any extra reflection from the image. 

Single Colour Muslin backdrops are also made with one piece of seamless cotton. As the name suggests, they are coloured in one solid colour and give you the option of selecting garments and models to create a unique shoot. 

The Portable Backdrops come with their own collapsible steel frames. It gives you a very smooth surface that ensures you don’t get inconsistent lighting. And you can prop it against a wall or a pole without any extra help, making it very easy to set up in any given location. 

Can Muslin Backdrops improve your content?

A good backdrop shifts the focus of the audience to the subject of photography. Muslin backdrops help you achieve this in various ways. The natural folds and creases add extra depth and texture.

If you love a certain location and want to design a set around it, then our muslin backdrops are pretty useful. As they are extremely portable and lightweight, you can carry them around easily. You can drape them across a stable surface, lay them out on the floor, or hang them on a wire or rod. If you get one of our X-Frame backdrops, you will get a ready-made frame that you can prop up without any help. 

Image Credits: Kalyani Ambike(Left) & Ashwin Fernandes (Right)

Creating full-length fashion photographs, videos, and reels becomes a hassle-free process with a backdrop that is hanging in one place. You can walk around on it or dance on it without worrying that the backdrop might tear, as the sturdy cotton fabric is very durable. And you can use it for topdown shots or videos.

The versatility of muslin also extends to product photography and food photography. They are easy to style and you can mould them around the product you want to highlight. There is no limit to how creative you can get with a backdrop like this.

How to take care of Muslin Backdrops?

Muslin backdrops are very lightweight and you can easily pack them up and take them to any location. To ensure that you get maximum use out of one backdrop you can follow some simple tips and tricks.  

The cotton fabric gets natural wrinkles the more you use it or if you store it for a long time. Get rid of these wrinkles easily by using a steam iron, flat clothes iron or a water spray. If you are using an iron to remove the crease, then make sure it is on low heat. It will keep the dye from reacting and/or changing colours and looking odd on camera. But a steam iron is the safer option because it preserves the colours and is also easy to use. A water spray is the safest way to preserve the colours and the fabric. Spray the backdrop and let it hang freely so the wrinkle disappears on its own. 

And if you don’t have the time to get the creases out, there is a simple way to make sure they don’t appear in your photos. You will have to shoot with a larger aperture and get your subject to pose at a distance from the backdrop. This gets rid of all obvious wrinkles. 

After your shoot is over, fold up the backdrop and store it in the packet. Ideally, store it in the same packet we deliver it in. Keep it in a wardrobe, cupboard, or even a utility closet. The main thing to remember is that it is safe from both direct sunlight and humidity. Add silica gel packets to remove moisture around it.

We do not recommend washing the backdrops in a washing machine as it removes the vibrant dyes of the backdrop and adds extra creases. If the backdrop has dirt then use a sponge and non-abrasive detergent to remove it from the spot.

We hope this guide helps you make a more guided decision with muslin backdrops. 

How to create the ideal Home Studio?

How to create the ideal home studio

At Studiobackdrops.com, we are constantly taking feedback from you to improve our products. We work with a wide array of professional and amateur photographers and try to solve their issues and everyday challenges. One question that is frequently asked is – how to create the perfect home studio?

Photography equipment is a long-term investment that might not explain itself when you are trying to make a purchase. We have consulted several professional photographers who have been working with our products to answer this question.

We want to go step by step and guide you with products that will make sure your home studio fits your needs.

1. Backdrops

Let’s start building our home studio with the most important product – the backdrop. Self-portraits, video, product shoots, food blogs – every kind of creative shoot needs a backdrop that enhances the subject.

At Studiobackdrops.com, there are 3 main categories of backdrops you can choose from. Paper backdrops, Muslin backdrops, and Hand-painted Canvas backdrops. To know which backdrop will suit your personal and professional needs better read here.

Any backdrop you pick can be easily stored and put away for later use. The muslin can be folded and stored in a dust-free area. The paper and canvas backdrops can be rolled up tightly and kept upright if needed.

Tip: To remove wrinkles before or after usage you can use a simple steam iron.

2. Backdrop Stand

A backdrop stand might not be a justified purchase at first glance. But it is good for preserving your backdrops. It also makes the process of shooting photos/videos much easier. In a home studio, you would need a backdrop stand that can be broken down and put away for later use.

The AriesX backdrop stand is made of two tripods and an extension rod. It comes in an easy-to-carry bag that also doubles up as a storage bag. The tripod can be folded to reduce the amount of space it takes. The extension rod can be separated into 3 or 4 parts.

This stand reduces the time and pressure that builds up when you are creating a setup. Once the stand is in place, you can put the backdrop up and create the rest of your set around it.

3. Light Setup

While natural sunlight may seem the best option for clicking images, it is not easy to control. It also requires a lot of modifying and editing later. One of the main benefits of a home studio setup is that you can easily modify the light while you are creating your setup.

To make sure your product is evenly lit you usually need two sources of light – a main and fill (or background and a foreground light). We would recommend the AriesX Quark 400 3 Light Kit or the Muon 600 2 Light Kit.

The AriesX Quark is meant for beginners as it is easy to use, has intuitive programming, and is smaller in size. It is the better option if you are learning about lighting on the go.

The AriesX Muon 600 Light is best suited if you want a workhorse. It delivers the precise power output every single time you click the flash and delivers it for long periods of time.

The difference between the two kits is very small. They come in easy-to-carry travel cases. Both can be stored away very easily in almirahs or lofts.

4. Tripod

One of the biggest problems of creating professional-level photos/videos is the stability of your image. You might need to create a time-lapse or change things around in your set frequently to get the desired result on camera.

However, if you don’t have someone to assist you or to hold the camera in the right place, then a tripod is necessary for a home studio setup. When your frame is stable you can easily make the minor improvements you need to your subject.

Our AriesX Heavy Duty Tripod and AriesX Professional Tripod work with a wide array of cameras and mobiles. (Mobile holder sold separately) It ensures that the quality and consistency of your image are constant.

These are some of the very basic products that will help you achieve the ideal home studio. Each of these products come with their own added benefits. They are easy to work with and will last you for a long time if you do some regular upkeep.

We hope this comprehensive guide will help you make a better choice when it comes to picking the right product. For any more queries, please contact us.

Seamless Paper Backdrops: Which Brand should you go for?

Seamless Paper Backdrops are one of the most popular kinds of photography backdrops in use today. Their ease of use and availability of colors makes them popular with all photographers.

They’re easy to set up, reliable and efficient. It helps you get an infinite background with the least amount of effort.

Here are a few things to consider while deciding which Seamless Paper Backdrop to buy:

1. Thickness

The thickness of the paper is measured in gsm or gram per square meter. This is a factor to be considered when factoring in how durable a seamless paper backdrop is, however after decades of use and research 145gsm has been widely accepted as the point of diminishing return.

Heavier than 145gsm the paper becomes difficult to roll, set up, and work with. The perfect tolerance range for big rolls is considered to be between 120-150gsm.

Both Superior Seamless and Savage seamless paper backdrop rolls are available in 145gsm whereas TruLite seamless paper backdrop rolls are available in 125gsm. Most people can’t tell the difference between them, even by touch. The lesser thickness of the Trulite seamless paper backdrops enables them to be made available at a lower cost to the end-users.

2. Paper Length

The biggest benefit to seamless paper backdrops is that they are sold in the form of rolls. This enables you to unroll and use as little or as much as you need. This also makes them perfect to be used for designing sets, for events, and for all photography sessions.

Savage and Superior Seamless Backdrop Rolls are all available in the standard length of 36ft or 11m. Trulite became a pioneer and started providing different paper lengths, leaving the decision to the end-user.

Trulite Seamless Papers are available in 18ft and 32ft variations.

3. Roll Width

Seamless Paper rolls are usually available in 4 sizes:- 4.5ft, 7ft, 9ft, and 12ft.

However, most manufacturers and sellers are capable of cutting the rolls to a width more suited to specific use cases. This gives seamless paper backdrop rolls even more versatility.

What Backdrops to choose? Paper or Muslin?

Great Backdrops Make your Images Shine

Photographers always tend to see beyond the model when studying images that they like. One thing that always catches their interest is the background of the image. A good backdrop choice must always compliment both the model and the garments. However, the intent of the photographer is always to pick backdrops that don’t stand out to a layman noticing the image.

Depending on the type of photography, whether it is a portrait session, product shoot, or a reel video, different types of backdrops are suited to each. There are two main types of backdrops normally used by photographers, Muslin Backdrops and Seamless Paper Backdrops. Both these types of backdrops have existed for decades and are immensely popular.

Muslin vs. Seamless Paper Backdrops

We stock 3 different brands of Seamless Paper Backdrops, Superior Seamless, Savage, and Trulite. All 3 of them are Made in the USA and are made to be really easy to use and give you consistently good results.

Both Superior Seamless and Savage Seamless Paper Backdrops have a thickness of 145 gsm and are available in 3 different sizes:- 4.5ft x 36ft, 7ft x 36ft, and 9ft x 36.

Trulite Seamless Paper Backdrops have a thickness of 125 gsm but most people can’t even tell the difference between 145gsm and 125gsm. Trulite Seamless Paper Backdrops are available in 4 different sizes:- 4.5ft x 18ft, 7ft x 18ft, 9ft x 18ft & 9ft x 32ft.

We stock over 120 different colors in Seamless Paper Rolls so that you can choose the color that you like and best fits your images. Seamless Paper Rolls are a product all studio photographers swear by, 4.5ft rolls are perfect for on-location portraits, and 7ft rolls are perfect car-sized backdrops.

Muslin Backdrops are made from premium 100% cotton and are dyed to make single color backdrops or textured muslin backdrops. Single Color Muslin backdrops are available in 3 different thicknesses of cotton and 1 wrinkle-resistant variety made from a cotton-poly blend. The 3 thicknesses are 165gsm(Solid), 190gsm(Deluxe), and 210gsm(Canvas). The Textured Muslin Backdrops are created by dyeing and processing them by different techniques. The main types of textured muslin backdrops are Handpainted Mottled, Crush Dyed Mottled, 3D Mottled, Washed Mottled, Solid Mottled, and Reversible Mottled.

Advantages of Muslin Backdrops

Both types of backdrops have a variety of advantages over each other. The primary advantage with muslin backdrops is that they are extremely portable and are hence perfect for on-location shoots and carrying around for those spur-of-the-moment portrait ideas. Muslin backdrops are also very rugged and take a whole lot of abuse before becoming unfit for use. While we don’t recommend washing these backdrops, you can easily spot clean dirt with a sponge and neutral non-abrasive detergent.

Due to the nature of the cotton fabric, it develops natural wrinkles. While a lot of photographers prefer shooting muslin backdrops with these wrinkles as it adds depth to the image, you can easily get rid of them with a steam iron. Alternatively, you can hang them overnight and spray some water on the wrinkles and gravity does the rest. All of our backdrops are made to strict international quality standards and with some tender love and care, they can almost last a lifetime.

Advantages of Paper Backdrops

Seamless paper isn’t as portable as muslin backdrops due to the size of the rolls and the need for a stand, but seamless is the backdrop most photographers use when shooting high-key lighting. The clean, smooth look that seamless paper provides makes it easy to white out a background for that immaculate appearance that is currently all the rage in advertising imagery.

Some clients want a crisp photo background in their commercial portraiture; for this look, seamless paper is the way to go. There’s no need to iron wrinkles as with muslin. When seamless paper gets dirty or creased, you simply tear off the soiled portion and unroll more for a perfectly clean background. If a particular color is needed beyond the basics, Savage’s Widetone paper comes in dozens of shades from Tulip pink to Sky Blue, making seamless a great choice for achieving an exact color. It really just depends on what you’re shooting. Both muslin and seamless paper have their strengths and weaknesses, but either will give great results when used properly. I enjoy using both in order to have the utmost versatility.