In product photography, the backdrop plays an important role in setting the tone and the visual appeal of your images.
A well-chosen background can make your product stand out and connect with your audience.
However, professional backdrops can be expensive and may not always match your specific needs or creative vision.
This is where DIY backdrops come in—offering a cost-effective, customizable solution that allows you to tailor your photography setup to your exact preferences.
So follow along as I share ways to create DIY backdrops for product photography that will look incredible in your photos!
Fancy Textured Backdrop? No – $5 Placemat
Why DIY Backdrops?
Benefits of DIY Backdrops
Creating your own backdrops offers several advantages that make it an appealing option for photographers of all levels.
Here’s why DIY backdrops are worth considering:
- Cost Savings: Professional photography backdrops can be expensive, especially when you need a variety of styles to suit different products. DIY backdrops, on the other hand, are highly cost-effective. With a little creativity, you can use everyday materials—many of which you may already have at home—to create stunning backdrops for a fraction of the price.
- Customization: One of the greatest benefits of DIY backdrops is the ability to tailor them to your exact needs. Whether you want a specific color, texture, or pattern that’s not available commercially, making your own backdrops allows you to customize every detail to fit the product and the story you want to tell.
- Creative Freedom: DIY projects give you the freedom to experiment with different designs, techniques, and materials. This creative process can be incredibly rewarding, allowing you to develop a unique style that sets your product photography apart from the competition.
Essential Tools & Materials For DIY Photography Backdrops
Basic Tools
Before you start creating your DIY backdrops, it’s important to gather the essential tools that will make the process easier and more efficient.
Here’s a list of basic tools you’ll need:
- Scissors and Craft Knives: Sharp scissors and craft knives are a must for cutting materials like fabric, paper, foam boards, and other materials precisely.
- Ruler and Cutting Board: A ruler helps ensure straight cuts and accurate measurements, while a cutting board protects your work surface when using sharp tools.
- Adhesive Tools: Depending on the materials you’re using, you might need various adhesives:
- Tapes: Masking tape, washi tape, and double-sided tape are versatile and great for temporary setups.
- Glue: Craft glue, hot glue guns, or spray adhesives are ideal for securing more permanent backdrops.
- Squeegee or Scraping Tool: If you’re applying adhesive films or wallpaper, a squeegee helps smooth out bubbles and ensures a clean, even application.
- Optional Tools:
- Sewing Kits: If you’re working with fabric, a basic sewing kit might be useful for hemming edges or creating custom sizes.
- Paintbrushes and Rollers: Essential if you’re painting wooden boards or canvases for a custom look.
- Sponges: Make up and painting sponges to create mottled effects.
- Spray Bottles: Handy for wetting down materials like paper or fabric to create a different texture or effect.
Suggested Materials
Now that you have your tools ready, it’s time to choose the materials that will form the backdrop itself. Here are some popular and versatile materials you can use:
- Foam Boards: Lightweight and easy to handle, foam boards are perfect for creating portable backdrops. They can be cut to size and covered with various materials like wallpaper, fabric, or adhesive films. Foam boards are especially useful for flat lays and smaller product shoots.
- Plywood or Wooden Boards: For a more durable and rustic look, consider using plywood or other types of wooden boards. These can be painted, stained, or left natural, depending on the aesthetic you’re aiming for. Wooden boards are ideal for larger products or when you want a sturdy, textured background.
- Fabric: Fabric is incredibly versatile and comes in endless colors, patterns, and textures. You can use anything from old bed sheets to curtains, tablecloths, or specially purchased textiles. Fabric backdrops are great for adding softness and depth to your photos, and they’re easy to store and reuse.
- Colored Paper and Cardstock: For a clean, modern look, colored paper or cardstock is an excellent choice. These materials are inexpensive, easy to store, and can be mixed and matched to create various looks. They work particularly well for small product shoots or flat lays.
- Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Contact Paper: These adhesive films are a quick way to create a seamless, professional-looking backdrop. They come in a wide variety of designs, from marble and wood grain to geometric patterns. Simply apply them to foam boards or other flat surfaces to create a backdrop that’s both stylish and durable.
- Tiles or Backsplashes: For a more industrial or sleek look, consider using ceramic tiles or peel-and-stick backsplashes. These materials add texture and are easy to clean, making them perfect for food photography or any setup where spills might occur.
Budget Considerations
One of the best things about DIY backdrops is that you can tailor the cost to fit your budget. Here’s a rough estimate of what you might spend on materials:
- Foam Boards: $5-$10 per board
- Plywood/Wooden Boards: $10-$30, depending on size and quality
- Fabric: $5-$20 per yard
- Colored Paper/Cardstock: $1-$5 per sheet
- Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper/Contact Paper: $10-$30 per roll
- Tiles/Backsplashes: $5-$15 per square foot
The Printable DIY Backdrops for Product Photography Checklist
To help you get organized, download and print this checklist of tools and materials.
Use it to keep track of what you have and what you still need to gather before starting your DIY backdrop project.
DIY Backdrop Ideas for Different Product Types
Creating the perfect backdrop depends on the type of product you’re photographing.
Here, we’ll explore various DIY backdrop ideas tailored for different types of products, ranging from small items like jewelry to larger products like furniture.
Each idea comes with step-by-step instructions to help you create backdrops that enhance the visual appeal of your products.
Backdrop Ideas for Small Products
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Painted Wooden Boards
- Overview: Wooden boards offer a rustic, textured background that works well for products like jewelry, cosmetics, or artisanal goods. The natural grain of the wood adds depth and warmth to the image.
- Materials Needed: Plywood or reclaimed wood, paint or stain, paintbrushes, and a sealant.
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prep the Wood: Sand the wood to remove any rough spots or splinters.
- Apply Paint or Stain: Choose a color that complements your product and apply evenly across the board. For a more rustic look, consider distressing the paint with sandpaper after it dries.
- Seal the Wood: Once the paint or stain is dry, apply a sealant to protect the surface and give it a slight sheen. For a truly rustic look, use a clear matte sealant.
- Let it Dry: Ensure the board is fully dry before using it as a backdrop.
- Best For: Jewelry, small crafts, food photography.
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Ceramic Tiles
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- Overview: Tiles provide a sleek, clean surface that’s ideal for modern or minimalistic product shots. They’re easy to clean and can add a sophisticated touch to your images.
- Materials Needed: Ceramic tiles, adhesive (if creating a larger surface), grout (optional).
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Choose Your Tiles: Opt for tiles with a matte finish to avoid unwanted reflections.
- Assemble the Surface: If using multiple tiles, adhere them to a board using tile adhesive. For a more polished look, apply grout between the tiles.
- Clean the Surface: Wipe the tiles down to remove any dust or debris before using them as a backdrop.
- Best For: Electronics, cosmetics, small kitchen items.
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Colored Papers and Cardstock
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- Overview: Simple yet effective, colored paper and cardstock are great for creating vibrant, clean backgrounds that make small products pop. They’re also easily replaceable and come in a wide range of colors and textures.
- Materials Needed: Large sheets of colored paper or cardstock, tape or clips to secure.
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Select Your Color: Choose a color that contrasts with your product to make it stand out.
- Secure the Paper: Tape or clip the paper to a vertical surface or lay it flat for overhead shots.
- Smooth Out Wrinkles: Ensure the paper is smooth and free of wrinkles for a clean, professional look.
- Best For: Jewelry, cosmetics, small electronics, stationery.
Backdrop Ideas for Larger Products
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Fabric Backdrops
- Overview: Fabric backdrops offer versatility and softness, making them suitable for photographing larger items like clothing, furniture, or home decor. The drape of the fabric can add an elegant touch, while the texture provides depth.
- Materials Needed: Large pieces of fabric (sheets, curtains, or specialty textiles), clamps or tape to secure, and an iron to remove wrinkles.
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Choose Your Fabric: Select a fabric that complements your product. Consider the texture, color, and drape.
- Prepare the Fabric: Iron out any wrinkles and secure the fabric to a backdrop stand or wall.
- Adjust for Lighting: Fabric can absorb light, so make sure your lighting setup highlights the texture and color of the fabric without creating harsh shadows.
- Best For: Clothing, large home decor items, furniture.
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DIY Canvas Backdrops
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- Overview: Canvas is a durable material that can be painted and customized to create a variety of effects. It’s ideal for creating a backdrop with more texture or for larger products that require a sturdy background.
- Materials Needed: Canvas fabric, paint or spray paint, brushes or rollers, and a sealant.
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Stretch the Canvas: Secure the canvas fabric to a frame or flat surface.
- Apply Paint: Use paint or spray paint to create the desired background effect. This could be a solid color, gradient, or textured pattern.
- Seal the Canvas: Apply a sealant to protect the painted surface and make it easier to clean.
- Dry and Store: Allow the canvas to dry completely before using it. Store rolled up to prevent creases.
- Best For: Large products, art photography, fashion shoots.
Supplies for above Canvas Paintings:
Large Seamless 8 oz. Canvas Sheets available here.
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Foam Boards with Wallpaper or Contact Paper
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- Overview: For a quick and customizable backdrop, foam boards covered with wallpaper or contact paper offer endless possibilities. This method is ideal for creating a backdrop that mimics textures like marble, wood, or stone.
- Materials Needed: Foam boards, peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper, cutting tools, and a squeegee.
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Cut the Foam Board: Trim the foam board to the desired size.
- Apply the Wallpaper/Contact Paper: Starting at one edge, slowly apply the wallpaper or contact paper, smoothing it down with a squeegee to avoid bubbles.
- Trim the Edges: Use a craft knife to carefully trim any excess material from the edges.
- Ready to Use: Your backdrop is now ready to use and can be easily moved or stored when not in use.
- Best For: Food photography, product flat lays, larger items.
Tips for Customizing and Enhancing Backdrops
Creating a DIY backdrop is just the beginning—customizing and enhancing it to perfectly suit your product photography needs is where you can really let your creativity shine.
In this section, we’ll explore how to match colors and textures to your products, add depth to your images through layering, and incorporate additional elements to create a more dynamic composition.
Color and Texture Matching
The colors and textures you choose for your backdrop play a pivotal role in how your product is perceived. Here’s how to ensure your backdrop complements your product:
- Choosing the Right Colors: Start by considering the color palette of your product. You want the backdrop to highlight the product, not compete with it. For instance, neutral backdrops like white, gray, or beige are versatile and allow vibrant products to pop. Conversely, if your product is more subdued, a brightly colored or patterned backdrop can add energy to the image.
- Texture Matters: The texture of your backdrop can influence the overall feel of the photo. Smooth surfaces like paper or vinyl are great for sleek, modern products, while rougher textures like wood or fabric can add warmth and a tactile element, perfect for artisanal or handmade goods. When choosing textures, think about how they’ll interact with the light and how they might affect the mood of the image.
- Practical Example: If you’re photographing a shiny product like a watch, a matte backdrop will prevent reflections and help the watch stand out. On the other hand, a product like rustic kitchenware might benefit from a textured wooden backdrop that complements its natural aesthetic.
Adding Depth with Layers
Layering is a powerful technique that adds depth and dimension to your product photos.
Here’s how to effectively use layers in your backdrop setup:
- Background Layers: Start by layering different materials for the background itself. For example, you might place a piece of burlap over a wooden board to add texture and interest. The key is to ensure the layers work together harmoniously rather than distracting from the product.
- Foreground Elements: Adding small props or elements in the foreground can help create a sense of depth and draw the viewer’s eye into the image. For instance, placing a few scattered coffee beans in front of a coffee mug can enhance the composition without stealing focus from the main subject.
- Creating Visual Interest: Use layers to guide the viewer’s eye through the image. For example, if you’re photographing a flat lay, consider arranging items at different heights using small risers or stacks of books beneath your backdrop material to create subtle variations in elevation.
Incorporating Additional Elements
Enhancing your backdrop with additional elements can transform a simple setup into a striking visual story. Here are some ideas:
- Seasonal Elements: Incorporate seasonal props or colors to give your photos a timely, relevant feel. For example, autumn leaves or pinecones can add a cozy, seasonal touch to your photos, making them perfect for holiday promotions.
- Lighting Enhancements: The way light interacts with your backdrop can significantly impact the final image. Consider using reflectors to bounce light onto specific areas of the backdrop or adding fairy lights to create a warm, glowing effect. Experiment with side lighting to emphasize the texture of the backdrop or backlighting to create silhouettes.
- Props and Context: Props can add context and tell a story about the product. For example, if you’re photographing a kitchen utensil, adding some fresh ingredients or a cutting board in the background can help convey how the product is used. Just be careful not to overcrowd the scene—when choosing props, every element should have a purpose.
Bonus Download:
A downloadable guide with ideas for seasonal and thematic props to complement various backdrop styles. This guide will help you plan your shoots according to the time of year or specific promotional campaigns. Click here to get your copy.
Storage and Reusability
Creating DIY backdrops is an investment of time, money and effort, so it’s important to know how to store and maintain them properly.
With the work you put into making them, you want to be sure they remain in good condition and can be reused for future projects.
In this section, we’ll cover practical tips for storing your backdrops, ideas for making them reusable, and how to protect them from damage.
Storing Your Backdrops
Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of your backdrops. Here are some methods to ensure they stay in great condition:
- Roll vs. Fold: For fabric and paper backdrops, it’s generally better to roll them rather than fold them. Rolling prevents creases and wrinkles that can be difficult to remove. Use a cardboard tube or PVC pipe as a core to keep the backdrop tightly rolled and secure it with elastic bands or ties. If you must fold fabric backdrops, try to keep the folds as loose as possible to minimize creasing.
- Use Protective Covers: To keep dust and moisture at bay, store your rolled backdrops in protective covers or plastic sleeves. This is especially important for paper or fabric backdrops that can easily get dirty or damaged. If you’re storing wooden or tile backdrops, consider placing them in a storage bag or wrapping them in a cloth to protect against scratches.
- Vertical Storage: If space is limited, consider storing your backdrops vertically. For example, wooden boards or foam boards can be stored upright against a wall. Just be sure they’re supported properly to prevent warping. You can also use a storage rack or a dedicated shelving unit to keep your backdrops organized and easily accessible.
- Climate Control: If possible, store your backdrops in a climate-controlled environment. Extreme temperatures or humidity can cause materials like wood, paper, and fabric to warp, discolor, or become brittle. Keeping your storage area cool, dry, and stable will help extend the life of your backdrops.
Making Backdrops Reusable
Maximizing the reusability of your DIY backdrops not only saves money but also reduces waste. Here’s how to ensure your backdrops can be used again and again:
- Seal and Protect: Applying a protective sealant to your backdrops can help them withstand wear and tear. For wooden boards, use a clear water-based sealant that doesn’t alter the color or texture of the wood. For fabric, consider using a fabric protector spray to repel stains and moisture. If you’re working with paper or cardstock, laminating the sheets can make them more durable.
- Modular Designs: Create modular backdrops that can be easily reconfigured or combined with other elements. For example, you could design a set of interchangeable foam boards covered with different wallpapers or textures. This allows you to mix and match backgrounds without having to create a new one for every shoot.
- Easy-to-Clean Materials: Whenever possible, choose materials that are easy to clean. For instance, vinyl or laminated backdrops can be wiped down with a damp cloth, making them ideal for food photography or any situation where spills might occur. Fabric backdrops should be washable or at least spot-cleanable.
- Repurposing Tips: Think creatively about how to repurpose your backdrops. For example, a wooden board used in a product shoot could be repurposed as a tabletop for flat lays, or a fabric backdrop could be turned into a DIY photo booth curtain. This approach not only extends the life of your materials but also gives you more versatility in your photography setups.
Downloadable PDF Guide
For your convenience, I’ve put together a downloadable PDF guide that includes all the storage and maintenance tips mentioned here. This guide is designed to help you keep your DIY backdrops in top shape, ensuring they’re ready to use whenever you need them.
Real-World Examples and Reader Submissions
Case Studies
One of the best ways to understand the impact of a well-crafted DIY backdrop is through real-world examples.
In this section, I’ll share a few simple DIY backdrops I use to bring texture and interest to images while helping products to pop.
Examples:
- Case Study 1: Rustic Wooden Backdrop
- Background: I wanted a background to highlight a client’s craftsmanship and natural materials used in their products. A DIY wooden backdrop was created from some old boards, aged to enhance its texture.
- Process: The wooden board were fairly rough when I found them. They were treated to some paint and sanded, before a bit of stain was brushed on and wiped off to slightly age them.
- Outcome: The rustic backdrop adds warmth and context to product shots, enhancing both artisanal feels and rustic or ruggedness. That makes this background extremely versatile.
- Case Study 2: Vibrant Paper Backdrops
- Background: When I was starting in product photography, I wanted to have a handy supply of backdrop options. In order to save money, the local craft store had 12 x 12 books of scrapbooking papers. This provided me with tons of options from vibrant colors to antique wall papers and so much more.
- Process: The paper can be arranged in overlapping layers to create gradients, high contrasts, fans and so many more effects. I always try to find a background paper that will make the product pop in a way the client will love.
- Outcome: The backdrops provide added depth and interest, making my images more dynamic and eye-catching.
- Case Study 3: Natural Backgrounds With Versatility
- Background: Another background that I added to my collection when starting my studio was rocks. They come in a variety of colors, sizes and textures, and best of all, you can find them for free!
- Process: My rock collection is a mixture of found wonders and purchased stone. I found the small smooth pebbles and rocks for filling vases to be reasonably priced and uniform for my needs.
- Outcome: Rocks have saved my shoots numerous times. They work well with nature themed products, organic products and even rugged products. You can also use them to contrast products with success. I highly recommend rocks!
Order: Sand, River Pebbles, River Rocks, Rough Rocks
The last image was shot in my studio with the products placed on an assortment of rough rocks. In the edit, I had AI add in the surf to create the feel of a pirate island!
Reader Submissions
I would love to see how my readers will bring their DIY backdrops to life! If you use the information in this guide to create your own DIY backdrops for product photography, submit your image for a chance to be featured here. I’ll share some of the most creative and effective submissions I receive along with a link to your website!
REMEMBER …
DIY backdrops offer endless possibilities for enhancing your product photography. From simple paper setups to elaborate fabric or wooden designs, these custom backgrounds can help you create images that truly stand out.
By following the tips and ideas presented in this guide, you can craft backdrops that not only complement your products but also convey your brand’s unique story.
The key to successful product photography is experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try new materials, mix different textures, or play with colors.
And again, I encourage you to share your DIY backdrop creations with me—whether you follow one of the tutorials or videos, or even come up with your own innovative designs.
Have Fun!
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