Have you thought about changing the background when you take a photo? Changing what’s in the background or using a backdrop can add a lot of visual interest with color/texture or, alternatively, can create a clean, uncluttered background.
Some backdrop stands are quite portable and small i.e. 3.5, 5 or 6 foot widths. There are also very small table top systems for small items such as flowers. My table top system is quite small and I’m able to store it in the corner of my living room, behind a cabinet, for quick access.
Andoer 60.5 * 70cm Small Photography Studio Video Metal Support Stand System Kit Set w/Crossbar & 3 * Clamps for PVC Backdrop Background is the table top system I use. I ordered mine at Amazon.
Unless you are creating a home photography studio and need to take full length portrait photos, most likely you won’t need a large stand, which can be cumbersome to set up. A single tripod stand can be easy to set up and very portable. I’ve used both and each has its pros and cons. A single tripod stand can be assembled quickly and is lightweight to carry. A traditional stand has more pieces to assemble, isn’t always as lightweight to carry and move around and can take up a lot of space in a room. A single tripod stand tends to be a bit more flimsy, only having one stabilizing pole, while a traditional stand has two. I’ve used a single tripod stand with success, but wanted to point out that it wouldn’t work well outdoors if there is a wind and is much easier to knock over (especially if you have children and/or pets in the room).
Another stand is the X-Drop stand which I have not tried but certainly looks interesting and caught my eye as it is portable and light to travel or move around with.
Another option that is very portable is a collapsible backdrop which comes in varying colors and sizes.
Whichever you choose, take into consideration the portability and set-up required and whether you have adequate space.
An alternative to using a backdrop stand is to use wall hooks or tape (I’ve used painters tape for holding up lightweight backdrops) on a wall.
Draping fabric over the back of a couch or between two chairs is another alternative. If the fabric reaches the floor, putting weight on it helps to pull it tight and smooth. I have clamps (that I took out of my hubby’s workshop). I use these to secure edges of backdrop to a chair, stand, etc.
There are many different products to use for a backdrop. Seamless paper, muslin fabric and cotton are some of the choices. Whenever I stop into a garage sale, I start browsing around for fabric/material that might be used as a backdrop. When I use my small table top stand I only need small pieces for a background, often I use pillow cases, placemats, towels or tablecloths. A garage sale I happened upon a few years ago had a box of free fabric swatches (about 16″ square) sitting by the roadside. I tried not to be greedy, leaving some for others, but came home with about 20 pieces of varying colors and patterns. That was one of the best freebies I ever found at a garage sale!
I hope that these ideas spark your interest in backdrops and backgrounds.
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