10 Tips to Remember When Working with Paper Backdrops

October 25, 2016
10 Tips to Remember When Working with Paper Backdrops

Paper backdrops are the best backdrops!

Okay, we may be a little biased, but they do have some undeniably great advantages. Seamless and printed paper rolls are versatile for most any shooting space, offer almost endless color and design options, and are among the most cost-effective studio backdrop options available.

While paper backgrounds are a popular tool for studio photographers beginner to expert, we wanted to offer some basic tips geared for new users to help make sure you have the best experience with Savage Paper.

We encourage our readers to add your tips and thoughts in the comment section below to help us grow this list!

1. Store in Dry Spaces

Evaluate the environment of your storage and work space for issues with humidity. Paper stored and used in humid conditions will absorb moisture from the air which can form wrinkles and ripples.

2. Store Vertically

The best way to store backdrop rolls is vertically. This position ensures that the roll will not weigh itself down over time, misshaping the inner cardboard core and causing waves in the material, particularly for the heavier, extra-wide rolls. Our Seamless Paper Storage Clip and Pro Storage Rack  keep rolls organized and out of the way.

3. Don’t Leave it Hanging

Don’t leave your backdrop hanging on a stand as storage. After each session, roll the paper back up tightly and evenly to avoid wrinkling. Grab a friend to help with a large roll.

4. Have a Few Clamps Handy

Spring clamps  are an important accessory for paper rolls. A full roll of seamless paper is thick and heavy, and if a user pulls it out quickly, the roll may continue to unwind for several extra feet. Secure a clamp to to the top of both ends of a roll to keep it in place and secure. Clamps are an inexpensive tool that can be found at any hardware store.

5. Clean Your Shoes First!

Clean your shoes or think twice about walking across the paper! Footprints can show up in your images, especially with light colored paper. Limit marks on the paper by wearing shoe coverings or trying socks-only when possible.

6. Only Sweep onto a Flat, Hard Surface

Your paper backdrop can crinkle and tear once your model steps foot onto it if it’s swept out onto carpet or uneven flooring. This will cause your backdrop to go from “seamless” to unsightly!

7. Find an Assistant

When handling 9′ wide rolls, having an extra pair of hands can be very helpful with sliding your backdrop onto a support system, clamping and rolling it back up evenly.

8. Tape Edges Down on the Floor

If you wish to sweep the paper backdrop out onto the floor, we recommend using gaffer tape around the edges to keep the paper smooth on the floor. If not secured, the end of the roll may curl and become a tripping hazard for your crew when walking across the set. Gaffer Tape is recommended over Duct Tape because its blended resin and natural rubber compound allows for non-transferring adhesion, to deliver a clean removal with no residue.

9. Experiment with Lighting

Colored background paper is a fun canvas for trying out different lighting scenarios. Adjust the color lighter or darker with your positioning, or pair it with an RGB light  to completely change it up every once in a while.

10. Recycle

Remember, paper is recyclable! We recommend recycling your end sheets instead of trashing them. Tip: A utility knife typically allows for a cleaner cut than a pair of scissors.