DIY Photography Backdrop

This is an easy removable table-mounted photography backdrop that can be built in roughly five minutes. This came about when it was suggested that my previous ceiling mounted backdrop rig was an eyesore and an impediment to office productivity. To comply with new office-wide zoning standards, I had to create a new rig that was not ceiling mounted, contained within my workspace, and that rose no more than three feet above the surface of my workbench. My own personal guidelines was that it had to attach firmly to my workbench and that it had to be removable.  This solution not only meets everyone's needs, but was quick and painless. I am also particularly fond of the pipe clamp supports, which when not in use as supports for the backdrop can double as - you guessed it - pipe clamps.

Step 1 Go get stuff

You will need:

(x2) 1/2" x 30" pipes
(x2) Pipe clamp assemblies
(x4) 2" x 2" cork pads
(x2) 1" inner diameter copper L-brackets
(x1) 1" diameter shower curtain rod cut to width of desk
(x1) Roll of photo backdrop paper

Comments

[iApple guy]

Is this what you use to make the photos in your instructables?

[HumptyNose69]

ahhh yeahhhh!

[Jayefuu]

Excellent. I've been waiting for someone like you or Angryredhead to do an Instructable like this about how you get your great shots. Got anything to add about light other than "lots"?

[randofo]

If you were to stand directly in front of this setup and look up, there is a very big skylight. Depending on the time of year, depends on optimal hours for photography. Summer gives me the most working time, but it's usually later in the afternoon. Winters hours are very short and best in early morning. The table is on wheels, so I can rotate the whole thing (now that it is not ceiling mounted) to account for the angle of the light.

None of that is probably particularly helpful to you.

We have some photo lights, but they are currently using tungsten bulbs. One of these days I need to figure out a "natural" lighting setup. San Francisco isn't exactly known for sunny days.

[conceptualstratagem]

Perfect! I'll keep it in mind when document work.

[splazem]

Awesome! I love photography, and this will be something that I need to make!

[sunshiine]

Thanks for sharing! I love your work space. I need a craft room this big!