Ever seen a photograph without a background? I’m sure not; well, that’s because no one snaps a photo without a photo background. The backgrounds can either be the natural surroundings in street photography or man-made backdrops in studio photography. Whichever one you decide to stick to, we cannot overemphasize the importance of photography backdrops.

Therefore, everyone interested in photography should know the relevance of using the correct backdrops for the right shoots. So, join the train as we take a look at photography backdrops and why they are essential. But first, let’s look at what they are.

What Are Photography Backdrops?

Photography backdrops refer to the backgrounds used by an artist in film and photography production. They are used to create a scene behind the models. If you used it effectively, they further highlight the model. However, if the wrong backdrop is used for a shoot, then the result can be disastrous.

Furthermore, they are made from different materials; hence we have various types; they include

  • Fabric backdrop.
  • Pop Up/cycloramas backdrops
  • MDF sheets background.
  • Brick backgrounds
  • Paper backgrounds, etc.

Importance of Photo Backdrops

1.    They tell a story

Every good photo has a story embedded in it, brought to life by the background. This storytelling is one of the several advantages of having a backdrop, as it enhances your images and then lets the viewer feel the idea behind the picture.

You can capture this story irrespective of your location. So, whether it’s the market, street corner, or the studio, backdrops help accentuate the composition of your scene. Hence, before you begin shooting, you must take the time to decide what backdrop would be most effective.

You can take note of the model’s outfit, skin, and hair tone; you also get to test various backdrops until you arrive at the perfect one.

2.    They provide depth to images

You can use backdrop lines to depict distance or depth in an image. One can also use them to create image movement. To achieve this, you can use converging lines that disappear in a distance.

However, while doing so, you have to be careful; you should avoid the intrusive and unintentional line in the background, also avoid using telephone or horizon lines that directly run at the back of the model’s head. You do not want competing lines that go in different directions as this will only provide distraction and even confuse the scenery.

As a result, the use of background lines is a technique reserved for professional photographers.

3.    Depicts Location

Whatever story we creatives intend to tell with our photographs, there must be a location and setting attached to that story. This feature is another addition the backdrop gives to your photos. With it, there’s an expression of timing and place. This is what completes the story. For instance, imagine a photograph of a man climbing the palm tree with the sun setting in the background. Obviously, from this, one can say the location and the time you took it.

4.    It highlights the model/subject

A backdrop can either make or break your subject. It can help one interpret the personality of the model easily when used rightly. This is because attention is focused on the model, making them stand out, like a bird free to fly.

5.    Used to serve different needs

Depending on the effect you want, the different types of backdrops help you achieve these purposes. For example;

  • Muslin Backdrop– this is made from cotton material. They come in various designs and are best for portrait photography.
  • Canvas Backdrop– they are used for fashion shoots and by top celebrities. They are, however, very expensive and heavy, hence not suitable for outdoor photography.
  • Paper Rolls– used for headshot photography, also suitable for portraits and baby photography.
  • Brick backdrop– as a lover of vintage style, the brick photography backdrop fascinates me to date. The uniqueness and effect it produces cannot be duplicated by other backdrop types, especially when paired with the floorings. They are, however, rare to find, another reason you should get one. Hence, Katebackdrop happens to be my favorite plug for this particular background.

Conclusion

Whether we agree or not, the background of a photo has a major influence on the photo composition. A person vast in art and photography can tell if a portrait was done by an amateur or a professional. This they do just by looking at the backdrop.

Hence, you must never be hasty to pick a backdrop, take all the time you need, text what you have if need be. But do not start your shoot without taking a critical look at your choice backdrop and how I would affect the depth or composition of the photo.

You have a variety of choices to pick from, ranging from fabric to brick backdrops. My best, however, is the brick photography backdrop; I love the way it transforms my models and tells the stories of old. You too can find your backdrop.

Photo by Alexander Dummer on Unsplash

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