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Step 1
Determine what type of photography backgrounds you need to buy. Are you looking for traditional canvas backdrops, muslin fabric, painted scenes on canvas, vinyl or sheer cloths? Do you simply need props to enhance a naturally occurring outdoor background?
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Step 2
Go to your local photography retail store. Browse their display of available photography backdrops. Ask if they have an option to special order other styles, colors and types of backdrops. Many smaller retailers cannot display all of their options and have a surprisingly large inventory they may order from by special request.
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Step 3
Shop at your local fabric store. Sheer fabrics available in sewing stores work well for small children, seniors and still life portraits. Choose from a variety of colors and textures. Look in the quilting section of the fabric store. Muslin backing used for quilting is readily available. Although it is not very wide, it can be used in couples and individual portraits. The muslin may be dyed or used as a neutral khaki color background.
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Step 4
Visit local theater supply stores. Ask to see their backgrounds, curtains and props. Many of these items can work for still photography. They are designed to work well with stage lighting, which will work well with studio lighting in a photography studio.
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Step 5
Browse the Internet for online photography supply dealers. Backdrops are available from camera stores, movie supply outlets and even prop supply stores. Some online retailers that offer backdrops for photography include Backdrop Outlet, B&H Photo and Video and Calumet Photographic (see Resources).
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Step 6
Use a large bed sheet, blanket or curtain if you are just getting started in photography. True photography backdrops can be quite costly. If the project that requires a photography background is a one time project, don’t invest in a real photography background.
