Everything to Know Before Buying a Backdrop Stand

A backdrop stand is an essential piece of equipment for any photographer because it allows you to put up the right backdrop for any kind of shoot for example for a new baby, a family holiday card, school pictures, an engagement, or a plain background for a product or fashion shoot.

This guide to buying a photography backdrop stand gives you essential information for making a choice you’ll be happy with. It includes a discussion of backdrop stand types – standard and heavy duty, arched and round, portable backdrop stands and DIY options. Your material choices are discussed along with the pros and cons of each. Tips for choosing a backdrop stand with the right features and where to buy a backdrop stand are all included.

Understanding the Basics: What is a Backdrop Stand?

A backdrop stand is a piece of equipment used to hold a backdrop behind the subjects during a photoshoot. Most stands are adjustable, both height and width, and include upright poles with feet to stabilize them. Most have a horizontal bar, sometimes with clips or hooks, that supports the backdrop. Arch backdrop stand, aka a round backdrop stand, or a circle backdrop stand are other options.

Backdrop stands are typically used in studio photography but portable stands can be taken to locations. In studio photography or on location, a backdrop stand allows the photographer to provide a backdrop scene suitable to each photoshoot.

Sturdier backdrop stands such as a C-stand can also be used to hang photography equipment including lighting, reflectors and diffusers.

Backdrop stand materials include metal and wood, and what it is made of affects stability and durability. A metal backdrop stand is either steel or aluminum alloy. They are sturdier and usually more expensive than a wood backdrop stand, which tends to be decorative and has fewer features.

Adjustable backdrop stands are also known as telescopic backdrop stands. The height range varies by stand, but typically it can range from a minimum of 3 feet high, a small backdrop stand for baby and pet photos, for example, to 10 feet high for most other portrait photography and other genres such as product or boudoir photography. Width adjustability varies too from a minimum of 5 feet to a maximum of 10 feet or 12 feet depending on the model of photo backdrop stand you select. A maximum 10x10 backdrop stand or 12x10 backdrop stand are common.

The load capacity of the backdrop stand depends on its construction and materials. A lightweight or portrait backdrop stand starts at 7-10 pounds capacity. Average stands hold 15-25 pounds maximum, while a heavy duty photo backdrop stand is rated for 30-50 pounds depending on the model and how much you have the width extended.  

Additional features included with photography backdrop stand kits are clamps, sandbags, and a carrying case.

Types of Photography Backdrop Stand

When shopping for a backdrop stand nearby or online, consider your options and choose a stand best fitted for your use. A standard photo backdrop stand is a versatile, affordable option for most photographers. Backdrops can be clamped onto them or hung with hooks.

A heavy duty backdrop stand is a good choice if your backdrops are large or weighty. Most are metal backdrop stand units made from lightweight steel or aluminum alloy.

An arched backdrop stand and a round backdrop stand are two specialty types that are used in many scenarios, especially to create a plain background that highlights the subjects and their attire.

A C stand is a type of photo backdrop stand that often comes in a kit. These are heavy duty backdrop stands that include an upper boom arm for holding the backdrop, backdrop clamps, one or more sandbags to prevent tipping and a carrying case.

Photo Backdrop Stand

The most common photo backdrop stand for studio photography is a rectangular design with two vertical poles. Each pole is supported by three feet like you find on a tripod. In fact, some manufacturers and sellers call the legs “tripods” Standard photography backdrop stands have a single top crossbar or both a top and bottom crossbar. Many of them are telescopic in both height and width, so that you can fit the stand size to the backdrop you choose for each shoot.

A basic photo backdrop stand can be used for many types of photography including portrait photography and product photography. They are also ideal for taking to parties, schools, corporate events and other events where a lot of people or groups are getting a photo taken.

Double photo backdrop stand models include three vertical poles or tripods with horizontal bars between the poles. This allows you to configure the poles to be in line or to be offset to form a corner based on the scene you wish to set for the photoshoot.

Popular materials for standard photo backdrop stand models are steel and aluminum alloy, which offers a good balance of lightweight design and strength. Some are light enough and easy enough to set up to be a portable backdrop stand.

Heavy Duty Backdrop Stand

A heavy duty backdrop stand is manufactured with high-strength aluminum alloy or steel. They are often designed for more permanent placement in a studio, though some are light enough and take down/set up easy enough to be portable. Initial setup might be more difficult, but there are advantages once the stand is in use.

Depending on the heavy-duty backdrop stand you choose, it might have additional top bars or crossbars, each with a different color roll of backdrop cloth or unique backdrop, so that you can quickly change the backdrop choice during a shoot or between shoots with very little hassle.

Many heavy duty backdrop stands are strong enough to hold lighting or other photography equipment like lighting diffusers or reflectors.

Arch Backdrop Stand

An arch backdrop stand features two upright sides with a rounded or arched top. In most cases, the frame of the stand is made with a polished finish, often a chrome or gold backdrop stand.

When constructed to be visually appealing, the stand can be used uncovered as a pretty backdrop stand for decoration or frame for taking pictures of individuals or couples – a wedding backdrop stand for example. Flowers, balloons or other decorations are often attached to it. Or the arch backdrop stand can be covered with cloth to form a solid, attractive backdrop for the photos. Many wooden backdrop stands have an arched top.

A backdrop arch stand is commonly used in event photography and special occasions. These include weddings and receptions, proms and other school dances, birthday parties, holiday parties, tradeshows and fashion shows. Arch backdrop stand units are also used in portrait photography, especially when a large number of people are having a picture taken, one or two at a time, for example, during a school’s picture day or during a couples event.

Round Backdrop Stand

A round backdrop stand is typically made from metal with a polished silver, gold or bronze finish. The round part of the backdrop stand can be a complete circle or it can be nearly complete and include legs. Like an arched stand, these photo background stands can be used alone or covered in cloth or paper. When the stand is not covered, then flowers, balloons and other decorations are often attached to it.

This versatile stand for backdrop type is popular for use in events where aesthetic appeal of the frame itself is important, such as weddings, receptions, parties of all kinds, and corporate events. In the studio, round backdrop stands are useful for portrait, fashion, and product photography.

Portable Backdrop Stand

A portable backdrop stand is one that is easy to assemble, take down and set back up and is light enough to carry to events and locations. Most come with their own carrying case. Cost is affordable. The benefits of a portable background stand make one an ideal choice for use in the studio and also in other indoor and outdoor locations as a backdrop stand for party use or for any event where photos are taken.

Many portable background stand models come in kits or systems with additional equipment such as sandbags to keep them stationary and to offset the weight of the backdrop. And most are adjustable/telescopic, so you can quickly make them the right size for the backdrop you are using for that shoot or scene.

A standard photo backdrop stand, an arched stand, and a round stand can all be types of portable stands. A t-shape stand is another portable backdrop stand type – it features a single tripod vertical pole attached in the middle of a horizontal bar. The bar usually includes clamps or hooks for hanging a backdrop. Many C stand models are portable if they’re made with lightweight material, but some are too heavy to be carried to shooting locations.

DIY Backdrop Stand: A Budget-Friendly Option

Many photographers learn how to make a backdrop stand and then build a DIY backdrop stand for their studio. A DIY stand for backdrops gives them the opportunity to customize it to their exact standards and needs.

The most common material for DIY backdrop stands is PVC pipe and accessories. However, steel or aluminum tubing can be used for those comfortable cutting and fitting metal pipe.

Here’s a brief step-by-step guide to making a DIY backdrop stand from 1-inch PVC pipe and accessories such as connectors and glue:

The materials list includes:

• Two 8-12 foot PVC pipes for the vertical posts
• One 8-10 foot PVC pipe for the crossbar
• Four 2-foot PVC pipes for leg supports
• Two 90-degree elbows to connect the crossbar to the vertical pipes
• Two T-joints to connect the vertical pipes to a base
• Two wide end caps as bases for the vertical pipes
• Sandpaper, saw and glue to cut, smooth and glue pieces together

Steps to making a DIY photo backdrop stand:

• Cut all pipes to the length you prefer
• Insert T-joints into the vertical pipes
• Attach a short pipe onto each exposed end of the T-joints to form a base
• Attach the elbow joints to the top of the vertical pipes
• Insert the horizontal crossbar into the elbows
• Now you can drape or use clamps to attach your backdrop to the DIY backdrop stand.

*Note – If the backdrop frame stand will permanently remain in your studio, consider gluing the joints. For a portable stand that you can disassemble and reassemble quickly on location, leave joints unglued.

The total materials cost of a PVC backdrop stand ranges from $40-$80 plus the cost of the backdrops or backdrop material.

Lightweight steel tubing is heavier but sturdier, a good choice if you use heavy backdrops or plan to attach lighting or other equipment to the stand. Cost of a steel backdrop stand is 3-4 times higher than PVC for a total of $125-$250.

Aluminum is lighter than steel and more sturdy than PVC. However, the cost is much higher than PVC and steel. Total cost of an aluminum backdrop stand is $195 to $400.

Image from Pinterest

Pros and Cons of DIY vs Manufactured Backdrop Stands

There are advantages and disadvantages of DIY versus purchased stands.

DIY stands are more affordable, a cheap backdrop stand in terms of cost compared to one you buy. And you can design one to the exact size for your studio and your needs. When designed right, they can be easily taken apart, moved to a location and quickly assembled. Keep in mind though that manufacturers design their stands to be easily taken down and set up too, and most have their own carrying case. In the studio, PVC DIY backdrop stands are light and easy to move, but those you purchase are too.

There are a few disadvantages to DIY photo background stands. Most DIY PVC stands are not adjustable, so you have to build them to their maximum size, even if the backdrop you’re using is small. And PVC crossbars might sag under the weight of a heavier backdrop unless reinforcement is used. If you’re not skilled, then building one will be time-consuming and might yield inferior results. Finally, it is very difficult to make a DIY arched-shaped backdrop stand, though a square backdrop stand is easier to make and might fit the purpose.

Manufactured backdrop stands are built to be sturdy and last for many years of heavy use in the studio and on location. Most are lightweight and portable. And they are backed by the manufacturer’s warranty.

How to Choose the Right Backdrop Stand for Your Needs

These tips for choosing the best backdrop stand for your needs will help you make a choice you’re happy with in the years ahead.

• Consider the size you need. If your studio is small or you are starting in your home, then a small backdrop frame stand is a good choice. However, if it's in the budget, consider an adjustable backdrop stand, and if you move to a larger space or need a larger stand for on-location photography, you won’t regret it.
• Buy a stand with as much weight capacity as you can afford. This is another choice you won’t regret – having a stand that can hold multiple backdrops and heavy backdrops in addition to lighter fabrics.
• Your first backdrop stand should be a portable stand. This gives you the freedom to use it both in the studio and onsite at events, parties, schools and other locations. Once you have an established business, consider adding a heavy duty backdrop stand, whether it is fixed, mounted or free-standing, for your studio – one with multiple top bars for hanging several backdrops for fast changes during or between shoots and sturdy enough to support lightweight lighting and light diffusion equipment.
• Material options are mostly metal, aluminum alloy or lightweight steel. But a few manufacturers make portable wooden backdrop stands, such as the wood backdrop stand Hobby Lobby produces. It is an arch backdrop stand that can be stained or painted for a rustic wood look or covered in any material you choose. Search backdrop stand near me or Hobby Lobby backdrop stand to see what it looks like or to find a Hobby Lobby close to you.
• Buy a set of wheels for your stand for added convenience. Most standard backdrop stands can be turned into a rolling backdrop stand by adding wheels to the feet. The wheels have a sleeve that fits over the backdrop tripod feet and are secured with a set screw. They are easy to add and to remove, making rolling the stand very convenient.

Photography Backdrop Stand Setup Tips

Best practices for setting up and securing your backdrop stand starts with reading and following the assembly and use guide provided by the manufacturer. This will prevent damage to the stand, familiarize you with its use and allow you to maximize its value to you.

Common issues in setup and use begin with failing to follow the directions – troubleshooting starts with going back to the manual provided with the stand to find solutions.

Another common issue is loose parts or sections of the stand separating. Make sure to tighten all connections. Using backdrops that are too heavy – that cause sagging – is also an issue. Research the weight capacity of each stand before you purchase one. Most backdrops are made from light fabric, but if you use non-standard backdrops that are heavy, you might have weight issues unless you buy a heavy duty photo background stand.

Maintenance and care tips to prolong the life of your backdrop stand start with using it as intended. Transport it to shoots in its carrying case. Don’t overload it with backdrops or equipment. Wipe it down or clean it with a mild soap solution whenever dust appears on it or after you use it outside. If it gets wet, dry it as soon as possible, especially if it is made with steel tubing. This might mean taking it apart to get moisture out of the tubing. Keep it stored in a dry place that isn’t overly humid.

Where to Find Backdrop Stands

Your options with the best selection are at local photography stores and online stores specializing in photography equipment.

To shop locally, start with a search like backdrop stand near me or backdrop stand nearby or backdrop stand in store. If you’re in a metropolitan area, you’ll probably have a few good options; in rural areas, you might have to travel to find a store. Regardless, one of the disadvantages of buying local is poor selection. The store might have a few options in stock, but will have to order anything else, and shipping can take up to a few weeks or a month.

To shop online, start with a search for photography backdrop stand or aluminum alloy backdrop stand or similar. Browse the search results for a site that specializes in photography accessories like photo backdrop stands, backdrops, lighting diffusers and reflectors, and props for various types of shoots. Those sites have a better selection of backdrop stands. Many also offer free delivery with a minimum order, and buying a backdrop stand usually qualifies. Shipping from online sites is usually faster because the stores are set up to pack and ship your item within a day or two.