Background and surface for food and product photography

Backgrounds and surfaces help create atmosphere in a food or product photo. They're essential for bold and elegant images; a well-chosen background is understated, doesn't distract from the main subject, but can still have character! We'll break it down for you in this blog post.

1. Backdrops:
Printed Backdrops: These are popular for their versatility and ability to simulate various environments. You can find backdrops with:

Realistic textures: Wood grain (distressed, polished, painted), brick walls, concrete, stucco, stone, etc.

Materials: Vinyl (durable, easy to clean), polyester (less prone to wrinkles), or paper.

Seamless Paper or Fabric.

Solid colors: White, gray, black, or complementary colors to the door can create a clean, minimalist look, allowing the door itself to be the sole focus.

Muslin or fabric backdrops: These can offer a softer, more textured feel.

Natural Environments.

Existing walls: A plain, well-lit wall can serve as a simple background.

Windows and natural light: Using a window as a background can provide beautiful natural light and a sense of depth, especially if the view outside is appealing.

 2. Surfaces (for the foreground and surrounding elements):

Flooring:
Wood flooring: Various stains and types of wood can complement different door styles.

Concrete or stone: For a more industrial or rustic feel.

Tiles: Ceramic, porcelain, or mosaic tiles can add pattern and texture.

Carpet or rugs: Can soften the image and add a sense of coziness, particularly for interior doors.

Walls (adjacent to the door):
Painted walls: Solid colors, or subtle textures.

Wallpaper: Can add pattern and character.

Brick or stone: For an architectural feel.

Props and Decor:
Plants and greenery: Can add life and color, especially for outdoor or entryway shots.

Vases or decorative objects: To add visual interest and context.

Lighting fixtures: Wall sconces, lanterns, or overhead lights can enhance the ambiance.

Lighting: The surfaces and backgrounds will interact with your lighting. Matte surfaces will absorb light, while glossy surfaces will reflect it. Consider how shadows will fall and what mood you want to create.

Portability vs. Permanent Setup: If you're a product photographer, you might invest in portable backdrops and stands.

Budget: Backdrops range widely in price, from inexpensive paper to custom-printed vinyl. You can also get creative with DIY solutions like painted boards or fabric.