Backgrounds For Product Photography

When it comes to product photography backgrounds, it can be difficult to figure out which background will work best for your needs and budget.

There’s a myriad of brands, styles, and options to choose from out there in the photography realm. Throughout my time working as a product photographer, I’ve tried using a lot of these different backgrounds, and some have definitely stood out from others.

I’ve compiled a list of my favorite product photography backgrounds along with the pros and cons to all of them. Hopefully this blog will help you figure out which product photography background will be the right fit for you and your business.


Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I will earn a percentage of the purchase at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting me so I can continue to create more content like this!

backgrounds

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backgrounds 〰️

Pros -

  • they come in a variety of patterns, textures, gradients, and colors

  • you can get a custom color printed for you, just provide the color data

  • they are extremely easy to clean and store

  • they are reusable!

Cons -

  • they are more costly

  • they only come in two sizes

(these backgrounds are my personal favorite to use ✨)

Where to buy: Club Backdrops

👉 If you click this link and make a purchase from Club Backdrops, get one backdrop free 👈

(you must be a first time customer for this link to work 😊)

Pros -

Cons -

  • the paper can easily get wet or scratched during styling

  • the paper isn’t exactly sustainable, after each use you likely have to cut the used part off (not reusable)

  • the paper rolls are large and can be cumbersome to store

  • shows papery texture up-close

Where to buy: Amazon, B & H Photo

Pro tip*- these rolls should be taped and stored upright to maintain their shape

If you plan to use seamless paper, you’ll likely need to also purchase a sturdy background stand, like this one from Impact:

Pros -

  • you can choose your color of paint so it’s completely customizable

  • it’s a reliably flat surface to work on (very sturdy)

  • it’s reusable

Cons -

  • the size and weight of these boards can be cumbersome

  • you’ll have to invest in other tools like paint, paint brushes, sandpaper, etc.

  • unless you’re a professional wood worker, it’s going to have some sort of minimal texture to it, even from paint brush strokes

Where to buy: Lowe’s, Home Depot, local hardware store

Fabric Backgrounds

When I say fabric, I mean things like:

Cloth napkins, tablecloths, fabric scraps, cut fabric, silk scarves, blankets, curtains, etc.

Pros -

  • fabric can be cut into many different sizes

  • it’s easily stored when not in use and doesn’t take up much space

  • fabric adds texture and movement to a photograph


Cons -

  • fabric can get wrinkled, which means you’ll want to have a steamer (more $$)

  • it can get costly depending on the type of fabric and the amount needed

Where to buy: Amazon, Joann Fabrics, Michaels, Target, other craft/fabric stores

👉 This colorful plaid blanket background was sourced from Amazon. Thanks, Jeffrey!

Okay, that’s all for now!

I think having a mix of these backgrounds in your studio is a great idea because then you can have variety of options for your photography.

Finally, I find it’s best to invest in these product photography backgrounds over time. Start off with a few that best meet your budget and start growing your background collection from there.


If you happen to have any questions about these backgrounds, leave me a comment below.

Cheers,

Clare 😘


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