Everything You Need to Know About Collapsible Backdrops

A popular photoshoot setting option for photographers who shoot in a variety of styles is a collapsible backdrop. It is a lightweight, portable backdrop that can fold up for easy transport. At Peerspace, we understand how crucial the setup of a space is to the creative process. As the largest online marketplace for hourly venue rentals, it’s our mission to ensure creatives find their perfect studio, be it a loft, a home, a penthouse, a warehouse, or a classic production space.

So we know that finding the right backdrop for your photoshoot can be a tricky process since there are so many options to choose from. For product photography, you might want a seamless white backdrop. For portraits, you might choose a muslin backdrop for color and texture. And on and on.

What we love most about collapsible backdrops is their versatily. For instance, a collapsible backdrop can be as small as two feet when folded, and as large as six feet when set up. Plus, they typically come with a different background on each side, so you can get two colors in one. Let’s look at everything you need to know about collapsible backdrops, from where to purchase them to how to set them up for an outdoor or studio shoot.

What are collapsible backdrops?

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The simplest collapsible backdrop is the Impact black-and-white backdrop, which you can buy on Amazon for an affordable price. At five feet by seven feet, this backdrop is big enough for headshots and portraits, and it folds up into a portable round carrying case. You can set it up horizontally or vertically, and it has Velcro straps on all four sides to attach it to a light stand or another object.

A black/white backdrop is especially useful because you can easily switch between portraits on either background without having to roll out a different paper backdrop for each one. Plus, when you aren’t using it as a backdrop, it can function as a flag or reflector. The Impact brand also has a blue and green chroma-key backdrop that’s ideal for green screen shoots.

Where to use collapsible backdrops

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Collapsible backdrops are ideal for shooting in small spaces or anywhere a full-size backdrop would be impractical. They make the perfect mobile headshot studio or photo booth, and they’re especially useful for outdoor or on-location shoots.

If you’re traveling to a new city and need to rent a studio for the day, you can book a venue on Peerspace and bring your backdrops with you. Just take them down, fold them up, and you’re ready to go.

What if they aren’t big enough?

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One of the downsides of using a collapsible backdrop is that it may not be big enough for every shoot. They work great for headshots and kids’ portraits, but you may not be able to fit a family or more than one model into the shot. Your model also might have to stand very close to the backdrop so that the frame can fully surround them.

Some companies sell backdrops in larger sizes, such as six feet by seven feet, but if you need a full-size backdrop, then you’ll want to choose seamless paper or muslin instead. Remember, they’re meant to be easy-to-use and portable but aren’t necessarily ideal for every type of shoot.

Setting up your backdrop

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The appeal of collapsible backdrops is that they’re easy to take down and set up. Start by unfolding your backdrop from its carrying case. Ideally, you want to use a stand intended for this kind of backdrop, with a clip-on top to hold it. Use the built-in Velcro straps to secure it tightly, so the wind doesn’t knock it over or blow it around.  There are also stands that can hold the backdrop using magnets, which is faster and more convenient to set up.

You can adjust the height of your backdrop by raising or lowering the stand. Use it vertically for tall clients or set it up horizontally to shoot two models side-by-side.

Alternately, if you’re using it as a flag or reflector, you can have an assistant hold it in place. The white side can bounce light from below to light up your model’s face, and you can use the black side to diffuse light that’s too harsh or direct.

Folding your backdrop

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To take down and fold up your backdrop, simply follow these steps:

  1. Hold the backdrop in front of you with your hands on the top.
  2. Bring the sides of the backdrop together, as if folding it in half.
  3. Gently guide the backdrop as it collapses into a circle.

You might find it difficult the first time you fold it up, but you’ll soon be able to do it in just a few seconds. If you store the backdrop for extended periods in the same position, it may take a bit more effort to straighten it out the next time you use it. To prevent the material from warping, try folding your backdrop in the opposite direction each time you store it.

What colors do you need?

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The great thing about collapsible backdrops is you can take several of them with you to a shoot and they won’t take up much space. If you’re going to an office to take corporate headshots or setting up a photo booth at a kids’ birthday party, having several options on hand means you can use a different background for each model, depending on their clothing and skin tone.

You can stick to solid colors, or choose a mottled brown or gray. There are also backdrops that resemble brick walls, wood paneling, or patterned wallpaper. Giving your model a few different options to choose from can help them feel more invested in their portrait session.

If you use a blue or green chroma-key backdrop, you can replace the background later using photo-editing software. It’s a great way to shoot green screenshots while on the go.

How to care for your backdrop

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Collapsible backdrops can cost anywhere from $70 to over $200, so if you’re buying more than one, it can feel like a big investment. Fortunately, if you store them properly, they’ll last for a long time. To avoid tears, be sure to not to leave them unfolded when you aren’t using them.

Most backdrops are made from translucent, waterproof material on a steel frame. The frame stretches the fabric out and holds it in place to prevent creases. If you need to, you can wash stains out with gentle soap and warm water. Use a steamer to remove any creases.

Rely on Peerspace for all your professional gear

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With thousands of photography studios in cities and towns across North America and beyond, Peerspace is the ultimate destination for photographers looking to get some serious work done. We make it easy for you to book a space. In fact, all you really need to do is click the link above, enter your location or destination, and see what pops up! Each space has its own listing that includes high-def photos, detailed space descriptions, upfront pricing, and reviews from past users.

Along with the space description, hosts list the equipment available at their venue, so keep an eye out for those that include backdrops, collapsible or otherwise. You can book with confidence after reading a space’s description, seeing its photos, and reading genuine reviews from other photogs. If you have any questions about the space, you can reach out to the host directly on the listing page.

Find the perfect space aesthetically but it’s missing specific gear you want? No worries! Peerspace has its own Concierge service. Contact this dedicated team and tell them what you need. They will source the equipment from trusted local vendors and deliver it to you at your venue. It’s the easiest way to get your perfect shots and then move on to other projects seamlessly.

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