Background Suggestions

[janet_mootz]

I have a small studio in my home. I usually photography groups of 5

or smaller, but I have had some requests to take large groups (10+)

in the studio. Up to this point I have been able to take the

photographs outside or at the clients home, but with winter

approaching I would like to have the option of taking these in my

studio. My thought is to paint a wall a neutral color for these

images. I have a background holder, but I don't think it would

accomodate a large enough backdrop for this purpose. My question is

what would be the best color to paint the wall? Brown, white, some

type of faux painting technique? I think black would be difficult

with a large group of dark haired individuals. What are your

thoughts?

[mydarkroom]

Soft browms and greys are safe colors. Look at some painted muslins for idea of faux textures,

[lpt021585]

Black could work. You just have to make sure to light the individuals enough. A softbox or

two can bring out enough seperation between the hair of the individuals and the background.

The lights should be higher than the subjects and angled down at a slight angle. Bring in

large white boards in front of the group as reflectors to compensate for the light coming

from a higher angle. White foam core works well.

 

For individual portraits on black, make sure to have a hair light for the subject.