Curtains can be used as simple photo backdrops.
When you are shooting photos for personal or commercial use, a photo backdrop can add depth to the photo and communicate additional detail about the scene. As you choose photo backdrops, consider ways to add layers to the photo and select lights and props that will enhance the photo scene.
Household Materials
When you want to experiment with different photo backdrops without spending much money, start by using materials you have at home. A richly textured brocade bedspread can be the background for a formal photo, for example, while a simple flowered sheet can serve as a whimsical backdrop for photos of children. You can use materials in their natural place by shooting photos in front of thick, hanging curtains or a wall with an antique wall paper.
Light Box
For a luminous, soft backdrop, create a homemade light box. Create a large box frame using lengths of PVC pipe and corner fittings; you can cut the pipe to size with a hand saw. Fold over about 5 inches on the shorter side of three white sheets and sew to make tubes that can accommodate the size of the PVC pipe. Hang the sheets on three sides of the frame and steam to remove wrinkles. Place photography lights on the left and right side, behind the sheets, and place a smaller light directly behind the sheet in back of the subject. The white sheets will create a soft, diffuse glow that is flattering for portraits and product photography.
Green Screen
If you want to edit in different backgrounds to a photo on your computer, use the green screen technique. Often used in television and commercial photography, this technique positions photo subjects against a bright green screen; the green area is digitally removed and replaced with a different photo or video background. To recreate the effect, simply use a large roll of green paper or fabric as a background and select the color in Photoshop to remove.
Natural Setting
If you are shooting photos of children, engagements or weddings, a natural backdrop can add depth and detail to the photo. For children, look for wide, open fields that stretch out in a green expanse. Engagement and wedding photos can be taken with the couple posed in front of a tree, flowering bush, or in the middle of the forest. In autumn, take advantage of falling leaves to add color and texture to your photos. As you choose a natural backdrop, look for settings that have similar color or pattern to keep the focus on the subjects.
Tags: photo backdrops, shooting photos, backdrop depth, different photo, green screen, natural backdrop, photos children