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10 Best Backgrounds for Product Photography That You Should Try in 2025

04-Mar-24
5 mins

 

Whether you are new to product photography or have been doing this for a while now. It is always good to brush up and go over what's new and happening. One of the most important determining factors of your online sales is your product image. When picking from one of the many best backdrops for product photography, there are several things to consider. For example, the color and tone you are going for, your product type, brand message, etc.

Also, plain white doesn't have to be the go-to option for all product shoots. With all the best backdrop material for product photography that are available out there, the world is your oyster! Let's deep dive into understanding the different product backgrounds.

What makes a good background for product photography?

Following are key points on what makes the best backgrounds for product photography in 2025 -

• Use subtle colors

Subtle colors are mostly recommended for product photography. This is because they make your product stand out while giving your image a pleasant vibe.

• Avoid busy background

Avoid keeping too many details in your background that will draw the viewer's attention away from the product. People searching for your product should find precisely what they are looking for.

• Don't place the subject too close to the background

Position your subject in front of the backdrop. However, keep some distance between your product and the background for a better effect.

• Fill the frame with your subject

Filling your entire image with your subject can help bring your product to the main focus. However, ensure you don't cut out parts of the product from your frame. Be careful when resizing your image.

• Blur the background

Blurry backgrounds can enhance the look of your image while keeping your subject as the primary focus. You can try leaving some distance between the product and the background to easily blur out the background.

• Keep it simple

The key to any product photoshoot is to keep things simple yet attractive. A simple wall, the sky, or a plain cloth make excellent product backgrounds.

• Look for contrasting colors

Using contrasting colors in your image is the best way to make the colors pop. Having a background color that contrasts with the color of your subject can give your photo a vibrant look.

• Incorporate background as part of overall composition

Having a background as a part of your overall photoshoot can make your product images stand out on your website. Experiment with how you can use different backgrounds to get your brand's story out.

What colors to choose for product background?

What colors to choose for product background?

Draw attention to your product by nailing your color scheme. Planning and structuring the colors you want to use beforehand can help you save precious time. You can create a mood board to keep in mind and know what product photography background ideas and colors you want to consider. Your background color should contrast with your product's color. You can recreate color palettes and tones and see what works well for your product photoshoot. The type of background photography you have depends upon the product you are selling. Luxury items have more of a dark, sleek background. While lifestyle items and beauty products have colorful backgrounds. You can choose colors according to seasons. This is done a lot in the fashion industry.

Also, light colors are preferred over bright colors. Bright colors are mainly used for advertising over product photography. If you are using your product images on another website, several websites have their own rules and guidelines to comply with. Most major eCommerce websites use a similar theme, i.e., a white background. Read their rules before you start with the shoot. Below, let us discuss the four most widely used colors for product photography and their benefits more in-depth.

• White

If you are unsure where to start, going for a white background is your best bet. A white background is the best color backdrop for photos on a site other than yours.

A white background:

  • Keeps your product in focus
  • Avoids distracting background

• Light colors like beige, pale pink, yellow, blue

Although white is the most common and best option, you can experiment with different background colors depending on your branding board. They are subtle and make the image look fun and aesthetic.

Light color background:

  • Looks appealing
  • Can make your brand stand out from the crowd

• Light gray

Light gray background is the best background for fashion photography. Light gray is not bright and will make your apparel or jewelry stand out.

A light gray background:

  • Does not contrast too much with the product
  • Goes well with both formal and casual looks

• Black

Certain products like jewelry go well on black background product photography. The color black makes things like jewels, diamonds, gold, and precious metals stand out, giving the whole picture an elegant vibe.

A black background:

  • Makes metals shine brighter
  • It is eye-catching and draws attention

Tips for choosing the best color backdrop

The following are four tips to help you better decide the best color background for photos.

1. Keep in mind your Product's Colors:

Choose a backdrop color that complements and enhances the colors of your product. A good contrast of colors between the product and the backdrop will make your product stand out. Lighter backdrops work well for dark products, and vice versa.

2. Think About Branding:

Align the backdrop color with your brand colors for a cohesive and branded look.

3. Neutral Tones:

Use neutral backdrops (white, gray, or black) for versatility and a clean, professional look that doesn't distract potential customers from the product.

4. Consider the Mood:

Choose backdrop colors based on the mood you want to convey. Choose lighter colors for a bright and airy feel, and darker colors for a more dramatic effect.

10 best backgrounds for product photography to try in 2025

Check out these 10 best background ideas for product photography -

1. Vinyl backdrops

Vinyl backgrounds have become a popular option for product photography mainly because they are thick and reliable. There are two other significant types of vinyl backdrops for product photography available: faux marble and solid color vinyl.

Advantages • Vinyl backgrounds are thick and long-lasting • They are spillproof (if with liquid products)

Disadvantages If you aren’t careful while washing these, the gloss can wash out

Vinyl backdrops are one of the best backgrounds for product photography to try in 2024

2. Foam board

Foam boards make good backgrounds for a product. If you are experimenting with this for your own website, experiment with different colors. You don't have to only use a white foam board.

Advantages • Foam boards are available in different color types, patterns, and textures.

Disadvantages • Foam boards are delicate and can break easily

3. Paper (or newspaper)

Not all photoshoots need an expensive budget to be perfect. Sometimes the simplest things can add elements and make your image stand out. Papers are popular when it comes to food photography.

Advantages • Papers are budget-friendly • They come in different textures and colors

Disadvantages • They are not durable • Slight damage to the paper could ruin the photo

Paper (or newspaper) is one of the best backgrounds for product photography to try in 2024

4. Metal tray

Metal trays make the best backgrounds for product photography of dark food. Moreover, both sides of the metal tray can be used to give the entire photo a unique vibe.

Advantages • Both sides of the tray can be used

Disadvantages • There are limited variations available

5. Stone or sand

Stones and sand make very creative backgrounds for jewelry brands. They are perfect luxury photo backdrops. Especially black sand can give your whole photo an aesthetic look. Check out how Welpix has done this.

Advantages • Stones and sand are budget-friendly • They are natural photo backdrops

Disadvantages • Arranging large products on stones can be a little challenging • Getting stones and sand to your studio can be cumbersome

6. Fabric or cloth backdrops

Silk cloths make great backgrounds for jewelry and watches. You can experiment with them by folding them, layering them, and playing around with them while figuring out how they should bring your brand's message out.

Advantages • They are easy to store • Fabrics can give your product images more depth

Disadvantages • If not handled with care can wrinkle and mess up the entire look

Fabric or cloth backdrops is one of the best backgrounds for product photography to try in 2024

7. Foliage

Are you a house plant geek? Have you always wanted house plants? Here is your excuse to finally get them. They also make the best backgrounds for product photography at home.

Advantages • Plants bring life to your image • It's best when you are marketing an environmentally-friendly product • There is a wide variety of plants you can choose from for your shoot

Disadvantages • Not all plants confirm the climate or soil conditions of particular places • If you are planning to have your shoot just once, you might want to consider getting artificial plants

Foliage is one of the best backgrounds for product photography to try in 2024

8. Rugs

Who knew those comfy little floor mats could make good background photoshoots? We know now. You can experiment with rugs of different colors and patterns. If you want to keep it simple yet aesthetic, you could use a white rug.

Advantages • They create a depth and texture that can't be replicated by other types of backdrops • They're also perfect for makeup product photography

Disadvantages • Rugs come in minimal sizes, shapes, colors, etc. And it's not very easy to customize them

9. Wood

Wood is one of the most creative background ideas. Raw uncut wood can give the entire picture acquire a rugged look.

Advantages • Give the image a nice overall effect • It is portable and customizable

Disadvantages • Pests can get attracted to it • It is not durable

10. Decorative tiles

Tile backgrounds make fantastic product backdrop ideas for your product. They are also available in various sizes, colors, and textures.

Advantages • There are many options available

Disadvantages • The weight of the tile can make it difficult to carry it around • Tiles are delicate and have to be handled with care

Decorative tiles are one of the best backgrounds for product photography to try in 2024

Where to get product photography backdrops

There are several places where you can purchase product photography backdrops, depending on your brand's needs and budgets. The following are six such options.

1. Photography Supply Stores:

Many specialty photography supply stores or camera shops carry a variety of backdrops. These can include paper rolls, fabric backgrounds, and collapsible options.

2. Online Retailers:

Online marketplaces like Amazon, B&H Photo Video, Adorama, and other online photography retailers offer a wide selection of backdrops in different colors, materials, and sizes.

3. Backdrop Specialty Shops:

Some online shops specialize specifically in photography backdrops. They may offer a broader range of options and designs. Backdrop Express and Savage Universal are examples of backdrop specialty shops in the USA.

4. Craft and Fabric Stores:

Visit local craft stores or fabric shops to find fabric materials that can serve as backdrops. This allows you to choose from a wide range of textures and patterns.

5. Rental Studios:

Some photography studios or rental spaces offer a variety of backdrops for photographers to use during their shoots. This can be a good option if you need a backdrop for a specific project but don't want to purchase one.

6. Home Improvement Stores:

Home improvement stores may carry materials that can be repurposed as backdrops, such as large pieces of plywood, paintable wall panels, or wallpaper.

Before purchasing a backdrop, consider factors such as size, material, color, and texture based on your specific photography needs. Reading reviews and checking product specifications can help ensure you get a backdrop that suits your requirements.

How to make background for product photography

Creating your own DIY product photography backdrop can be a cost-effective and creative way to achieve a unique look. Here's a simple guide to make a basic DIY backdrop:

Materials Needed:

  1. Large Sheet or Fabric
  2. PVC Pipes or Wooden Dowels:
  3. Connectors or Joints (for PVC frame)
  4. Spray Paint (optional)
  5. Clamps or Clips
  6. Scissors

Steps:

1. Measure and Cut:

Measure and cut the fabric per your desired backdrop size. Leave some extra fabric at the bottom to create a seamless floor transition.

2. Create the Frame:

In case you use PVC pipes, assemble the frame by connecting the pipes with the joints. Create a rectangular shape that matches the dimensions of your fabric. If you plan on using wooden dowels, you can create a similar frame and secure the corners with screws or brackets.

3. Attach the Fabric:

Lay the fabric on a flat surface and attach it to the frame using clamps or clips. Ensure the fabric is taut to avoid wrinkles.

4. Paint the Backdrop (Optional):

If you want to add color or texture, set up a well-ventilated area and spray paint the backdrop. Allow it to dry completely before using it.

5. Set Up Your Photography Space:

Place the DIY backdrop in your photography space, ensuring it's well-lit. Experiment with lighting angles to achieve the desired effect.

6. Secure the Bottom (if needed):

If you've left extra fabric at the bottom for a seamless floor transition, secure it in place using weights or tape.

Remember, the key to a successful DIY backdrop is creativity and experimentation. You can personalize your backdrop further by adding textures, and patterns, or even using multiple layers of fabric. It's a versatile and budget-friendly way to enhance your product photography setup.

Wrapping it up

Now that you know the best backgrounds for product photography available, we know you will make the best out of them. However, it is easier to do all of these with the DoMyShoot app. You don't have to take the trouble doing it all on your own. The DoMyShoot app takes care of your product photography needs by offering various backgrounds available within the app itself.

Frequently asked questions

What color background is best for taking pictures of products?
White is the most widely used and safest background color you can go for. White ensures your background is clean and the product is in focus.
What kind of paper is used as backdrop in product photography?
Seamless paper is the most popular product photo background available. It is versatile and durable compared to regular paper.
How to make your own backdrops for photography?
Paper rolls, fabrics such as muslin, MDF Boards, and cyclorama are some of the most common and readily available backdrops you can choose from. You can further play with lighting to enrich the image.
How to make text pop on a busy background?
1. Add a dark overlay on top of the background photo and adjust the opacity 2.Change the text color to white and duplicate it to look bolder and stand out.
How to take product photos on a white background?
1. Ensure your aperture setting is between f/4.5 and f/7.1. 2. See if you have a plain white background or set your aperture to f/2.8 or lower. 3. Your shutter speed should be 1/125 or higher for good shots 4. Set your white balance to 'Auto White Balance.'
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