Backdrops & Photo Backgrounds

 

For a clean and uncluttered look, backdrops provide a simple solution. At John Barry Sales, we stock a range of high quality options, ideally suited to professional photographic and video applications, retail displays and exhibitions.


Read more about our different type of backdrops


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Choosing the Right Photography Backdrop: A Complete Guide

Selecting the perfect backdrop is essential for achieving professional-quality photos and videos. Whether you're shooting portraits, products, or streaming content, your background sets the tone. From paper rolls to green screens, this guide will help you choose the best backdrop for your needs.

1. Paper Backdrops 

Best for: Portraits, fashion, general studio use

Why choose paper?

Seamless background paper rolls are a studio essential. They offer a clean, distraction-free backdrop in a wide range of colours—ideal for creating consistent, professional-looking images. Affordable and easy to replace, paper backdrops are considered consumables: simply tear off the damaged section and roll out a fresh one.

2. PVC backgrounds 

Best for: Product photography, still life, messy shoots

Why choose PVC or vinyl?

Durable and moisture-resistant, vinyl backgrounds like Colorama Colorgloss and Colormatt are perfect for shoots involving liquids or food. Easy to clean and reusable, these backgrounds are typically sized at 1m x 1.3m, making them ideal for tabletop photography.

3. Graduated backgrounds 

Best for: Product photography, creative still life

Why choose graduated backgrounds?

Create visual depth and dimension with Colorama Colorgrad graduated vinyl backdrops. These backgrounds transition smoothly from light to dark, adding a professional touch to product shots. Available in 1.1m x 1.7m rolls.

4. Green screens

Best for: Video production, live streaming, virtual backgrounds

Why choose a green screen?

Chromakey green screens allow you to replace your background digitally during post-production or live broadcasts. Available in paper, vinyl, or textile kits like the Manfrotto Studiolink or MLBG4301KG, green screens are a must-have for content creators and video professionals.

Final Tips for Choosing Your Backdrop

Consider your subject: People, products, or video content may require different materials.

Think about lighting: Matte finishes reduce glare; glossy surfaces reflect light.

Plan for maintenance: Paper is disposable, vinyl is reusable.