Okay, you understand how the backdrop color is affecting your footage, but what type of backdrop should you buy for self-tape auditions?
There are a few different types of backdrops, paper rolls, fabric, and pop-up backdrops, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, and various tools required for effective set-up.
Before you buy any background, you must consider the space you have and where you plan to shoot your self-tape auditions. So be sure to test out different areas of your home, and measure the location where you plan to set up.
Buying Guide: Backdrops for Self-Tape Auditions
Paper Rolls
Pros:
Nice even look
Versatile
Easy to Replace, if you crease or stain the paper, simply cut the paper (recycle it) and roll out more.
Cons:
Rigid
Take up a good amount of space even when stored or put away
Depending on your personal preference they can be seen as flat
Additional Tools:
Gaff Tape
Paper backdrops don’t necessarily require a stand. You can get away with setting the roll on the floor, rolling the paper up to the desired height, tapping to the wall, or clamping to something like a curtain rod or shelf.
When using tape though, I highly recommend specifically using Gaff Tape as it's strong, but WAY less likely to ruin whatever you tape onto.
Classic Backdrop Support System
Consists of two tripod stands, and a pole that bridges between them and holds the paper. There are plenty of options for these types of stands online of varying quality. This is a relatively affordable option, but keep in mind the feet of the stands will take up space, and you may want to sandbag them to prevent a tripping hazard from taking the entire setup down.
Mounted Multi-Roll Support System
If you have the wall space, and don’t mind the holes in your walls, a mounted stand might be a good, permanent option. There are a variety of mounts to choose from, and you can even do what I’ve done which is mount them onto what’s called a Varipole. This is a more expensive option, but the stand itself takes up a lot less space.
Fabric Backdrops
There are countless fabric backdrops out there, it’s important to be mindful of the dimensions before you purchase though, as they are less universal than the paper rolls.
Pros:
Washable
Compact
Depending on personal preference, they can add texture and dimension to your background
Cons:
Wrinkle easily, even though they all claim to be wrinkle-resistant, they do wrinkle. It’s nothing that a quick steam or run in the dryer can’t solve though.
Flows, meaning they lay less flat, and sometimes require clamping to pull taught.
Additional Tools:
Clamps
You may want to consider purchasing clamps (I bought a big pack at a Hardware Store for $6) to pull the backdrop tight to the backdrop pole. Alternatively, you could use clamps instead of an actual stand in order to put the backdrop on a bookshelf or other high-up edge. I’ve clapped fabric backdrops to doors, closet frames, and even shower curtain rods.
Curtain Rod
An affordable hack I recommend is buying a curtain rod, and hanging a fabric background from that. As long as there isn’t a middle hook holding up the curtain rod, it’ll work. Be mindful though of placing your backdrop over an actual window, the light will shine through it.
Classic Backdrop Support System
Same as the paper rolls, the primary backdrop stand that works best for this is the classic support system. (see above for details)
Pop-Up Backdrop
These pop-up, or collapsible backgrounds have gained a lot of traction online, and although I had never used them before putting together this resource, I felt it was important I try them out and include them in my breakdown. These are 2-sided backgrounds that can be folded up into a compact circle. I will note, they do not fold up to being tiny, the larger the background, the larger the folded circle.
Pros:
Easy to transport - if you’re an actor who’s constantly on the move this is a great option.
Two-for-One - Double-sided means you get two colors for the price of one.
Cons:
Clunky once open
Cannot wash or easily replace it if you stain it, or if the fabric tears from the frame, you have to buy an all-new system.
Limited color options
Awkward for full-body slates
These backdrops are oval-shaped, which means you’ll need to mount them for the audition, and set them on the ground for the full-body slate. If you’re 6 feet or taller, this can be a problem. Some people don’t have an issue with the edges of the pop-up background, while others can’t stand it, it’s again, a personal preference.
Additional Tools:
Clamps, or Rope
The friend who lent me their pop-up backdrop uses a rope through the loops on the backdrop to hang it from hooks he installed on his wall. This seems like a clever option, but you can also do the same thing with clamps as well. I will say, the larger the size of the pop-up the heavier they are. So be mindful of that.
Classic Backdrop Support System
Same as the paper rolls, a classic backdrop stand would work for with clamps. I would recommend this over getting the specialty stand because of its versatility, if down the line you decide you want to switch to any of the other backdrop types, you would be able to use this stand with any of them. (see above for details)
Pop-Up Backdrop Stand
They do make special stands for this type of backdrop. They are essentially tripod stands, with poles topped with a clamp or two. You might also need sandbags for this type of setup, as the backdrops can be quite heavy, and the stand will tip entirely on its own if at all knocked off balance. A gust of wind can do this.
Whatever type of backdrop you decide to purchase is up to your personal preferences, and the space you have in your home.
If you’re curious about any backdrop types not listed here, leave a comment and I can do some research and get back to you with my opinion.
There are a lot more posts coming in this series, so be sure to subscribe to my blog so that you don’t miss the next Acting Resource on Self-Tape Auditions.
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