Westcott Collapsible Backgrounds

I am lookng for something that is portable that I can take to homes to shoot

portraits.

I have been looking at the Westcott Collapsible Backgrounds. I would like for

some of you to let me know what you use for portable backgrounds and if any of

you use the Westcott Collapsible Background.

Thanks Ernie

Ernie-- The Wescott Collapsible Backgrounds are OK for head-and-shoulders shots. I have one and use it a fair amount for low-end corporate portraits (and even some high-end stuff).

 

The one thing you need to keep in mind is that you will need a crossbar holder at the top. This is not really a big thing, I just use a reflector holder with a clamp on either end. Otherwise the background will warp on you, which can cause problems. Again, not a big deal if you are aware of it and have an extra reflector holder. You can still use just one stand to hold it up.

 

Also, the background may be big enough for two people just head-and-shoulders, but I'd certainly bring along a bigger backdrop if I was doing anything more than that.

 

Happy shooting. -BC-

Hi Ernie...

I have just left the corporate world of Banking and I am going to try to make a living at what I enjoy. Your question got my attention because u say u r going to shoot in peoples homes. I am going to start shooting in peoples homes as well via door-to-door. I know it sounds crazy but I made quit a bit of money 20 years ago selling encyclopedias door-to-door in college.. Is this what u r doing lets share some ideas..e-mail me at chrisehrlich@comcast.net

have u used chromakey?

I use Flex Out flexible backgrounds...they are good for head n shoulders, or some 3/4 length shots (get the 5 ft by 7 ft size), they just. I got mine from www.backdropoutlet.com

What Bill said. I use the Westcott 5x6 ones for head and shoulders and maybe two people cropped tight. I have a 6x7 that will maybe squeeze 4-5 people half length, but without much room between subjects and background (no background light, or not much room for). You also need a bit of space to use these because you need longer lenses so you can keep from running out of background around your subjects. Also be careful when unfolding and folding them--you can knock valuable knick knacks off tables and shelves. You'd have to get the even bigger ones with the skirt for full lengths, and even then you'd need space and not be able to put a lot of people on the background. I'd much rather use available backgrounds in people's homes--they also reveal more about your subjects.

Nadine, or anyone with experience - do you have any tips or pointers on shooting portraits in people's homes without backdrops that you might share. I've shot a few of these and it's always interesting because each place is decorated is totally different and the available space can sometimes be almost nothing. I'm just wonder if there are some general rules are guidlines that you might follow.

 

Ernie - please excuse me for hijacking the thread but I hope you might benefit from any info on this also.