10 Photography Backdrop Ideas for Budding Beauty Bloggers…

Coming up with stunning but simplistic & affordable photography backdrops can be a bit of a struggle even for the most creative amongst us. However throughout my blogging journey I’ve managed to uncover a range of effective background ideas that can often be found around the house, or for minimal cost. Who needs to spend all their hard earned cash on budget draining equipment when you have these pocket friendly idea’s close to hand…

As a huge fan of recycling anything particularly pretty, there’s no better way to make use of old calendar pictures than to unleash your favourite pair of craft scissors and give them a new lease of life by using them as some pretty backdrops. Floral & patterned ones can be particularly effective, so next time you’re shopping for a new calendar keep in mind to choose a complimentary themed one that will eventually end up as the perfect selection of backdrop images!

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If you love the idea of an editorial, high fashion or edgy look to your images then magazine features can set the perfect scene. If you’ve already ditched your stash of old copies then I’d encourage you to treat yourself to a sparkly new glossy. Vogue & Marie Claire usually have pages full of beautiful text and striking images for you to take your pic from. If ‘soft & romantic’ is more your thing, then there’s nothing prettier than a stack of well worn books to add a sprinkling of quintessential charm to your feature. Give it a go, you just might be surprised how well it can work.

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These are one of my favourite background staples. Having a craft drawer literally bunged with stationary goodies I’m never in short supply of some pretty paper to display my cosmetic goodies on. Keeping a selection of high quality paper sheets can really help your photo’s come to life. Available from all good stationary or craft stores, these are usually sold in single sheets for (approximately) 50p each or in a pad format which hosts a wealth of different designs to choose from.

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Pretty much every hardware store has a wall paper department filled with rolls of pretty designs that you can request a free sample off. This is a great alternative to buying craft paper if your budget is limited or you’re doing a specific themed feature that you might have no use for in the future!

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Might sound a little strange initially but spending a few quid on a few sample boards from your local flooring store can be a great way to give your background some superb texture or the impression that you’ve a gorgeous table at home that’s showcasing your items perfectly. One of my favourite styles is a shabby but ‘oh so chic’ white-washed look that can really help the colour of your products pop on such a neutral backdrop.

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Fabrics can create a gorgeous backdrop particularly if you fancy the idea of forming different heights (or platforms) for displaying a multitude of products. Unlike paper displays, fabric can be washed (which is particularly handy if you’re a bit of a clumsy fool like myself) or if it simply gets grubby with continuous use over time. Why not support a small business by taking a trip to a local textile shop to view the selection of fabrics on offer? Incorporating materials such as a sumptuous lace can give a luxurious look and almost vintage theme to your blog photography. Alternatively you could try something fun & eye catching or otherwise completely neutral to avoid distraction. Just remember to steam or press any fold lines & wrinkles before you begin your set-up!

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Sometimes taking to the great outdoors (weather permitting obvious ladies!) can be a incredibly inspirational, especially if you’re showcasing any natural or organic products. A local beach, the woods or even your back garden can really get the creative juices flowing. A great benefit is that it doesn’t cost a dime and the natural day light will really help to capture the colours in their truest form!

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I personally find that using a mirror can be especially effective if you’re photographing a singular product that may look a little lost on it’s own as the reflection of the mirrored setting will add some interesting depth and definition to your image. Just make sure you’re shooting from an angle that doesn’t show your camera lens. However pleeeeease make sure you give it a clean before camera clicking… grubby mirrors with smudged finger prints don’t make for pretty additions.

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Earlier in the year I rolled up my sleeves & created this really colourful heart shaped button picture. It was super easy & such a fun project to work on, however what I didn’t realise at the time was how darn handy it would turn out to be for photography. Although it hangs on the wall above my vanity table, I usually just lift it off when I need it for photographing… no hassle, no fuss & it’s always to hand! If you want to find out how to make your own just *click here* for my easy peasy tutorial.

Here’s a pic of the button picture in action; it’s quite a pretty backdrop wouldn’t you agree?

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This is probably one of my most popular posts to date, particularly for those who really are limited for space & don’t want to spend a fortune on costly professional photography equipment. Creating your own mini photo studio is the ideal solution that’s super handy for taking great pictures against a simple backdrop. I painted mine white however if you’d prefer a different colour or patterned paper then why not give it a go?  If you’d like to check out the tutorial just *click here* to get creating!

What’s your favourite backdrop for photography? Have you any suggestions of your own you’d like to share? Whatever your thoughts I’d love to hear them in the comments below so do stop by & say a quick howdy!

Cheerio Chums…

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