How to choose the best food photography backdrop.

WHAT IS A BACKDROP?

It is the difference between photographing your cake on a busy countertop and using an actual backdrop. A background is used behind your subject when photographing your dessert. It helps set the scene and mood in your photo—one of the main props you will own and use consistently.

Don't go overboard purchasing everything you see. Start with 1-2 backdrops. It allows you to stay consistent without overdoing it and staying on brand. To select the best food photography backdrop, consider your brand aesthetics and the size of the dessert you will photograph.

WHAT IS YOUR BRAND AESTHETICS?

Your brand aesthetics is the visual look of your brand—the style and mood it portrays. Knowing your brand colors will help you select the best food photography backdrop for your business. Without this, your branding will be all over the place, your customers will be confused, and your brand will not be consistent.

WHAT SIZE BACKDROP TO PURCHASE?

That all depends on your specialty. Do you specialize in cupcakes, cookies, tall cakes, or wedding cakes? All of these desserts vary in height. Therefore, it is vital to know your specialty before you purchase a backdrop. Don't just pick any company do your research.

Always read the description and dimensions of the backdrop. Some companies offer various sizes, and others have set dimensions.

Most food photography backdrops are 24" X 24", ideal for smaller desserts such as cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, one-tiered cakes, or cakesicles. If you add a cake stand, keep in mind that it will add additional height.

If you purchase a 24" X 24" backdrop, your dessert cannot exceed 24".

Multi-tiered and wedding cakes taller than 24" will require taller backdrops.

WHERE TO BUY BACKDROPS?

Investing in a good-quality backdrop is ideal. If you can't invest right now, it's okay. Start with a budget-friendly option, practice, build your skills, and then invest. I started with a white foam board and slowly purchased and replaced it with better-quality backdrops.

Budget-friendly option: They are inexpensive but do not last over time because they tear easily and get dirty. They start at $1.00. Purchase them at Dollar Tree, a craft store, a hardware store, Walmart, or Target.

The pink backdrop in this photo is wrapping paper I purchased at Dollar Tree. Because it's a budget-friendly option, it does not mean your image will look inexpensive. No one would know it cost me $1.00—it's still one of my favorite photos.

Inexpensive materials to use;

- foam board - wrapping paper - contact paper - poster board - design poster board - PVC backdrop - wood scraps - vinyl - fabric - tiles - scrapbook paper

Affordable mid-range option: Starting at $19.95 Ink and Elm Backdrops - I have many of their backdrops. Made of resistant vinyl, it comes in various sizes, is durable, easy to store, and water resistant, which makes it easy to clean. Best of all, it is a fraction of the cost of other companies. They sell sizes ranging from 2' X 2' up to 10' X 6', ideal for taller desserts.

High-end option: Starting at $89.00 Replica surfaces. They offer standard sizes and limited designs on larger backdrops.

All in all, to select the best food photography backdrop for your business, remember to consider your brand aesthetics, style, and color of your brand. Know your dessert specialty and, most importantly, read the dimensions before you purchase the backdrop. Now, you can make a more educated decision when buying backdrops.

You don't need to spend much money to create a beautiful image. Think outside the box and look around your home for backdrop options. You will be surprised by what you find.

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HERE ARE A FEW EXAMPLES OF BACKDROPS I HAVE USED.