How to Make a Background for Studio Photography

The right background for a photography studio can add a professional feel.

Starting out in the photography business can be pricey, so finding ways to cut corners financially without compromising quality is always a good thing. You can create a classy studio background for your photo shoots for a fraction of the cost of a specifically designed backdrop, with just a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• 4-5 yards of wide muslin fabric
• Pencil
• Scissors
• 1-2 rolls of fusible no-sew tape
• Iron
• Ironing board

Instructions

1. Measure the wall that will be your backdrop for photo sessions. Mark the fabric with a pencil along a straight edge to help ensure a straight line. Cut your muslin with the scissors so it will cover the wall, according to your measurements.

2. Apply the fusible no-sew tape to the cut edges of the muslin.

3. Fold the fabric over to make a hem over the fusible tape. Be careful to keep the edges as even as possible.

4. Iron the fabric at the fold to fuse it together with the no-sew tape. Follow the instructions included with the fusible no-sew tape.

5. Hang the muslin on the wall that will be your background.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are handy with a sewing machine, you can sew the hems instead of using the fusible no-sew tape.

• For different-colored backgrounds, repeat the steps with different-colored muslin.

References

• Better Photo; How to Make Your Own Backdrop; Denise Miotke