How to Make Your Own Photography Backdrops

Mature Caucasian man on studio background.

Photography can be an expensive career or hobby. Knowing when and where to save time and money can be instrumental. Obviously, there are areas where you can save money, and background fabric is one of them. You can make your own backdrop, or background fabric, for studio shooting sessions. You will need to purchase a few tools and supplies, but some of them can be reused.

Things You'll Need

• Muslin fabric
• Fray Check or hem tape or sewing machine (optional)
• Fabric dye
• Washing machine or large plastic trash can for dyeing
• Wooden rod
• Staple gun

Instructions

1. Muslin fabric is the best choice for a photographic backdrop. The subject matter you plan to shoot will determine the amount of fabric you need to create a seamless background.

2. If your fabric has frayed edges, use Fray Check or hem tape or actually sew a hem.

3. You get different looks from smooth and wrinkled fabric. Muslin looks good either way.

4. You can change the color of the background with fabric dye. Follow the directions on the package but do not agitate too much to create different levels of color in the fabric, a form of tie-dyeing.

5. Hang the fabric to dry so that it does not shrink. Pulling it tight will remove the wrinkles, or you can bunch it up to create a wrinkled effect.

6. Attach the fabric to a wooden rod for easy storage. Staple the fabric to the rod, and then roll it up when it's not in use.

Tips & Warnings

• If your subject is small, other materials and surfaces can be used as a photographic background. Use your imagination.