Whether it's an abstract textured backdrop or a white canvas, the background is one of the critical elements when it comes to portrait photography. It can influence the portrait's aesthetic and affect how the viewer perceives the model. This is why experienced portrait photographers carefully select their backgrounds.

Four Tips for Background Selection

Here are four things to consider when you're selecting a background for a portrait:

Color: Whatever role you want the background to play in your portrait, it should never clash with, or distract from, the model, especially their skin ton and clothing.
Keep it simple: The best backgrounds are typically simple, meaning they don't have busy or distracting elements on them. If you want to add more interest, use an abstract textured backdrop that doesn't overpower your subject or clash with their colors or skin tone.
Lighting: Lighting is another critical element in a portrait. Great lighting can elevate the look of an image and enhance the model. In contrast, poor lighting can ruin the image or make the model disappear into the background. Lighting can also over-emphasize the backdrop. Whenever possible, use early morning or early evening (outdoor) natural light to avoid over-or underexposure. If you're shooting indoors, try to use natural light from a large window until you become more proficient with artificial lighting.
Test shots: Always take a few test shots before your model arrives and then again once they're there before you start the actual photo session. Use a stand-in if you need to, but try to emulate the colors the model will be wearing. This is a good time to experiment with various camera settings, like shutter speed and focal length.

Common Backgrounds

As you saw above, the trick is to select the correct background for the portrait you're shooting. There are countless options from which to choose! Here are six common backgrounds for portrait photography:

White: A plain white background is an excellent option for some portraits, headshots, stock images, and product photography. However, when working with a white background, lighting is critical so that the subject doesn't come off as washed out or you don't create strong shadows. Also, the wrong lighting can change the color of the white backdrop, making it look dirty or grayish.
Black: A black backdrop can be a great option depending on the subject and the intent of the photo. It can be equally appropriate for a professional headshot or an edgier portrait. A black backdrop can add drama - especially for black and white images - with the proper low lighting.
Colors: Solid colors can make good backgrounds for simple portraits, including children's photography. Just don't forget that the colors shouldn't distract from the subject but enhance them.
Blurred: One of the most common backgrounds is softly blurred backgrounds, particularly if you're shooting tighter on the subject's face. This can be a backdrop you use indoors or a landscape outdoors in the background. Another way to obtain a blurred background is to use a shallow depth of field.
Natural: A natural outdoor background can add richness to a portrait. Depending on the backdrop, it can add visual interest or drama and help draw the viewer's eye to the subject.
Abstract Textured: Abstract Textured Backdrops for Portrait Photography can add drama or energy to an image. Abstract textures can also complement a subject's skin tone or clothing nicely and enhance the overall look of the portrait.

Do-it-yourself Backdrops

You don't have to run out and purchase an expensive backdrop. You might have some materials in your home or office that you can use to make your own. There are also some inexpensive materials you can buy to create your own backdrops.

If you don't already have a backdrop stand, you can use some PVC pipes to build your own. And remember that there are plenty of suitable places outdoors, like evergreens and open sky, you can use for a background!

Here are some easy do-it-yourself ideas for making a backdrop that can elevate the look of your portrait:

Paper: Combine large sheets of paper or order specialty sizes from a photo supplier to create a simple background paper.
Bedsheets: A white bedsheet or bedcover will give the look of professional white photography background. If you want a smooth white paper background look, make sure the sheet or cover is ironed. Use a wrinkled bedsheet to create an abstract texture.
Sheer Curtains: Sheer or lace curtains combined with soft natural light can add an ethereal look to a portrait.
Paneled Walls: If you are daring and careful enough, you could try a paneled wall as a background. Just keep in mind that the lines of the pattern might distract from the subject, so choose carefully.
Fabrics: You can make your own fabric backdrop pretty quickly with no sewing necessary! There are many fabrics available, including duck cloth or another type of canvas. Check out your local fabric supplier and keep an eye on sales!

We hope you have found these background ideas helpful. The more you work with various backgrounds, the better you will know what might enhance an image and what might detract from it.