Simple backdrops for a DIY kind of guy?

[Buckaroo]

Hey there, I am looking for some advice, hope you can help guide me a bit on this.

I'm an amature looking at doing a more professional calendar shoot with a simple background but really don't know where to start looking for one. I figure at least 8' wide with 20' feet in length.

Suggestions for what to use for sturdiness and durability(Small props will be used, stool, chair, etc...), and usual costs would be very helpful. I can most likely construct my own frame/supports should I need one once I know what I should be using.

If there is a previous forum post about this I have missed, a link would be very helpful too.

Many thanks on this!
Buckaroo

[Kustomkarma]

Hey, these are pretty neat!!

Classic Stacy said:

http://pinterest.com/pin/181340322465375368/

http://pinterest.com/pin/181340322465552951/

http://www.diyphotography.net/homestudio/blz/home-made-cheap-diy-ba...

http://melissaesplin.com/2011/05/diy-photography-backdrop/

http://www.loveandoliveoil.com/2011/04/diy-distressed-wood-photo-ba...

[Buckaroo]

I like it! That's a great use of space. Though I have to admit, clearing out my living room probably wouldn't happen. My garage on the other hand...

Thanks for the idea!

[Edson Carlos]

Hey buckaroo I'm replying to this so I remember to chime in later today.

[Buckaroo]

Sounds like a plan! I have those kinds of days too!

[Craig Gardner]

One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of DIY backrop stands use pvc which is heavy and not very rigid, if you look in the electrical section you will find Electrical metallic tubing (EMT). I had a studio and I used EMT to hold my 10x20 muslin that had a pocket on each end and when I washed the muslin I would put a 10 ft section of EMT through each end and stretch the wet muslin from one wall to the the next and the EMT would then bow in the center a couple of inches but that would go away when the muslin dried a 2 inch pvc pipe would have bowed more than that and weighed a lot more.

[Kustomkarma]

You could also build the wall in sections that come apart. That's what I did - but I haven't taken it apart since I assembled it. As some of the other folks that posted have said, lighting goes a long way to create atmosphere. After all, Photography is basically the control and capture of light - of course I'm speaking in very general terms here. :)

[RL]

DYI Guy. I hope you are taking note. These replies are the words of experience. Dean Collins and I were talking and the question of how I would large softbox effect without a softbox. (Softboxes were a new thing) The Answer was: Use a white bed sheet like a umbrella.  You can bounce it , or blow thru it.  DYI indicates creativity. Have fun & enjoy your mind. R

[Craig Gardner]

BTW the EMT I use is 1/2"

[Buckaroo]

Thanks! I'm taking all this in, it helps, honest! Seeing this featured this morning was quite a surprise, many thanks!

The original shoot I had in mind didn't happen in May, but that doesn't mean I won't be at it sometime soon!

All of this helps!

[Vivian Tyler]

Hey there,

No big photog tips, just wanted to mention that I have a near mint condition Vitamaster booty shaker if you are interested. It is that amazing aqua green with original straps and an unusual seat. It actually still works!! Would make great cheesecake photos! $150, prefer pick up, but I can ship UPS at your expense. email if interested!