This will be a quick one because I did a few really cool photo sessions recently that I need to finish processing. And good news – I got permission to use some of them so we can do a few photography tips from some awesome client sessions. The cool thing about processing is when you know you did a great job with the photo session and already know the client is going to be happy with the end results.
But for today, back drops. I’ve been toying with some ways to make my backdrops a little more interesting without stealing the show. These photos here were for actress headshots… which ended up not working out because the talent agent wanted a simpler background. That’s okay, just a little aside here but if you are doing actor/actress headshots you go with what the talent agent and casting director says – always.
Anyway, I have a brick backdrop that looks great on its own, but I went ahead and flung some cloth over it too. I think I’ve mentioned this before, but Walmart and more fabric stores have a section with precut yards of random fabric usually at a discount. This stuff is AWESOME. You can make fake wall drapes out them and wrap them around your subject for fake cloths. If the fabric is thin enough, you can shoot through it or even put it in front of your flash to give it some color. There is just so much you can do.
However, make sure your backdrop doesn’t take away focus from your subject. It should compliment your subject; not take away attention from your subject. If you make your backdrop too busy you will lose your subject and end up with a cluttered mess of a photo.