Affordable backdrop ideas for photographers (and tips on how to create them)

FOAM CORE

Find these at your local craft store, Michaels, or even Amazon! From $3 and up, you can find amazing deals on different colored foam, which is light, portable, and easy to adjust for perfect lighting.

FABRIC TEXTURE

Whether it’s a fun vintage print, a modern pattern, or simply a solid color, fabrics are a great for backdrops! Keep in mind the texture; make sure the fabric has been ironed or placed in the dryer to remove folds and lines.

PAPER

Available at art stores like Blick and online, different paper colors and textures are a light and affordable solution for quick and easy photography backdrops.

PAINTED / COLORED / NATURAL WOOD

If you have the time and resources, there is much to be said about using the real thing. Light, dark, natural and painted wood, all have different pros and cons, depending entirely on the type of look you’re going for with the specific image.

TILE SAMPLES

Head to your local home depot or surface specialist in your area. Often times, companies will have singular tiles for sale. If you don’t want to emulate something with vinyl and want the real deal, purchasing one (or a handful) of tiles is a great middle ground.

VINYL

Available on etsy and online, vinyl is an affordable option for photography backdrops, if you don’t have access to a permanent studio space.

For even more tips, check out our blog backdrop inspiration at: http://www.melyssagriffin.com/5-backdrop-ideas-blog-photography-30-create/.