The backdrop stand might not appear to be the most thrilling piece of equipment for photography however, it is the foundation of every studio. If you want to take professional portraits with a seamless background or simply hang the backdrop on a cloth by investing in the top backdrop stands available can ensure that your photography runs effortlessly.
Even in the absence of a professional photographer there’s a vast choice of backdrops that you can pick from. They can be used for everything from portraits on location to coverage of events. The backdrop being hung from a stand instead of taping onto the wall ensures that when you’re shooting, you don’t have to be worried about the backdrop falling down unexpectedly. Gaff tape can be a great option, however it shouldn’t be used to hold your backdrop.
- Overall: Neewer Pro Heavy Duty Stainless Steel C Stand
- Best portable: Neewer Photo Studio
- The best Tabletop Photography: Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox
- Best heavy duty: Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit
- Best value: BDDFOTO Photo Video Background Stand
The best backdrops are with reviews and recommendations.
The best overall Neewer Pro Stainless Steel Heavy Duty C Stand
C Stands are a popular photo studio necessity, and while they’re typically used to store lights, they can be an excellent way to put up a backdrop well. These C Stands made of stainless steel can withstand the rigors of fresh sheets of paper that are seamless or even heavier backdrops made of cloth, they can be set at a height of 11 feet. The turtle base is designed to make it simple to place a sandbag on top of the stand to ensure it stays secured. It will require two of these to hang a complete sheet of seamless paper, a couple of clamps to keep it in place from the top when it’s been rolled out, and gaff tape for securing the edges of the paper however it’s more affordable option than an autopole system and which is a lot more adaptable. It can be set up on your own or take it in If you allow plenty of time for it and are willing to do some lifting.
The most portable version: Neewer Photo Studio
Neewer’s kit for a backdrop stand includes bags for carrying with backdrop clips, as well as three backdrop colors – making it an affordable kit for photographers just beginning to get started. The stand is constructed of aluminum alloy and can be adjusted by up to 8.5ft high and 9.8ft wide. The cross bar has four sections, making it simple to alter the size that the stands. We don’t recommend using an uncut roll of paper that is seamless to this background stand as it’s best suited to lighter fabric, but it’s able to take on a roll that is at reaching the point of no return in its lifespan. This kit comes with three light backgrounds to help you get to get started.
The best Tabletop Photography: Neewer 20×20 inches Tabletop Photography Lightbox
A compact set-up designed for smartphone photographers who want to sell their products on the internet or for photographers shooting small items. The tabletop backdrop kit includes four backdrops made of fabric as well as four mini light bulbs, and a collection of gel filters and an accessory standing stand to hold your phone. The stand actually functions as an adjustable lightbox that folds up into an extremely compact case, which makes it an ideal option for photographers who are short on space. The tiny set-up does not make sense for taking portraits, but if are the type of photographer who has to deal with many small items, it’s a great and simple solution. It’s finally time to launch that eBay shop selling your knick-knacks.
Best heavy duty: Manfrotto 2961D Deluxe Autopole Expan Kit
Manfrotto is among the most reliable brands in the photography industry. The company’s Autopole system is a fantastic option for photographers who are mostly working in studios. The autopoles can be securely wedged into the ground and ceiling. They can be repositioned to provide an increase in height range of 6.5 feet up to 11.4 feet. This makes it a good option for studios.
Best value: BDDFOTO Photo Video Background Stand
Don’t count on this cheap background stand to last for a long time If you’re seeking something light and user-friendly and your backdrops don’t seem to be particularly heavy, you can’t beat the price of this stand. The backdrop stand adjusts in height from 2.3ft up to 6.6ft in height. It comes with four pieces of a cross bar which can be set up from 5ft to 10ft. It can hold 5.29 pounds, however this is a setup that you should use with light cloth or vinyl backdrops rather than new rolls of paper that are seamless. It is compact for storage and easy use in its compact case. Make sure to pack sandbags in case you plan to shoot this.
Things to take into consideration when looking for the best backdrops
Backdrop stands are available with a wide range of sizes, materials and prices, and taking into consideration where you’ll use the stand the most often will help determine which stand is the best for your needs. If you’re shooting in an studio or have others working with your direction, you’ll be able to appreciate the versatility of the Autopole system. If you’re an artist in the studio who usually does it on her own and is in need of two sturdy C stands could be the best option.
If you’re a photographer who frequently goes to weddings and other events and are looking for a step-and-repeat or a photo booth-style setup, a collapsible backdrop that you construct on the spot is likely to meet your requirements better. You’ll appreciate its portability when you’re ready to pack it up.
Take note of what background stands are made from. A stand made from aluminum alloy or stainless steel will be more durable and stronger robust than a lighter-weight model.
Other factors to be considered when looking for an ideal backdrop stand
Like many other pieces of equipment for professionals the highest priced backdrop stand may not be the one that is best to meet your requirements. Large backdrop stands can cost between $30 and $500, however there’s a wide variety of quality options that you can find on the internet. The highest priced backdrop stands are sturdy and ideal choice for studio shooting, particularly when you’re a photographer who shoots regularly with seamless paper. However, they are typically heavy and bulky, making them less than ideal for shooting in the field.
If you’re the kind of photographer who prefers shooting outdoors collapsible backdrop stands could be the best option. The backdrop stands that collapsible are usually small enough to accommodate just one headshot or big enough to accommodate a large number of people. They are also available in a range of colors and patterns. While a lighter option may appear to be the best option, if you’re planning to hang heavy-duty cloth backdrops or large sheets of seamless paper from it, you’ll likely have to replace it within a couple of shootings. The majority of collapsible, lightweight backdrop stands are best than hanging a thin cloth backdrop or vinyl step-and-repeat backdrop. It is not a good idea to have your backdrop to collapse mid-shoot. This is bad for the photos and also your insurance rates.
No matter the backdrop stand you select, you’ll need to buy some clamps, gaff tape and sand bags to help keep your backdrop level. Sandbags are essential if you shoot outdoors with the ability to collapse your backdrop stand to prevent a powerful breeze from ripping your backdrop from the backdrop. A backdrop for outdoor shooting is basically an sailboat that is waiting to go off in a gust of wind.
Gaff tape can be used to attach your seamless paper to the ground, and clamps can keep the top layer of your paper from unravelling. Find out more about our most popular alternatives for hanging backdrops.
The Expan system can accommodate the capacity of three sheets and a chain drive gear located on the back of the roll allows shooters to roll and unroll seamless paper. The system can hold a maximum weight of 22 pounds however we don’t suggest keeping your seamless sheets hanging from the stand while not in use as they may form small bent lines that show up in photographs. If you’re a frequent photographer in the studio, you won’t be wrong with this setup.
FAQs
A: When do I select a backdrop stand?
The best backdrop stand is a matter of much to do with the location where you’ll be shooting and your budget. Take into consideration if you’ll use the backdrop stand mostly at the studio or taking it out to places and occasions. The most robust autopole systems will cost more as well as last a longer time than collapsible background stand, however they are more difficult to transport.
A: What type of backdrop stand should I get?
Before purchasing a backdrop stand, take into consideration what kind of backdrop that you intend to hang from it. If you’re primarily shooting on seamless paper, it is best to use an autopole or a few C-stands. If you’re shooting using cloth backdrops that are lightweight as well as vinyl repeat and step banners, a collapsible backdrop stand with a lightweight design should suffice.
Question: Which backdrop stand is the most robust?
The backdrop stands that fold collapse in time and require replacement. If durability is the thing that is your primary concern, then consider the autopole option. If you are looking to save money buying two C stands made of stainless steel as well as hanging the seamless papers from them is a good alternative, and a more convenient alternative for traveling. C stands last for years when you purchase heavy-duty models.
Last thoughts about the top backdrops
The backdrop stands are an an ideal option to take your photography studio or event up a notch. A well-constructed backdrop stand can allow you to remove the distractions in your background so that your attention is on your subject. Don’t forget to bring a roll of gaff tape Sandbags as well as a set clamps — three essential photo tools that will allow you to make your backdrops look great effortlessly.