6 tips to extend the life of your paper background

Paper backgrounds are an essential tool for studio photography. There is a wide range of brands available (Colorama, Manfrotto Papers, Savage, etc.), offering a large variety of colors to choose from.

Check out our article on the differences between studio background brands.

Known for their versatility, paper backgrounds provide a smooth, seamless surface that eliminates any texture or pattern that could distract from your subject.

Depending on their size, these backgrounds can last a long time, allowing you to use them for multiple photo shoots or productions. In this article, discover our tips for extending the use of your paper background rolls and maximizing their lifespan.

Extend the life of your paper backgrounds

Learn how to handle and maintain your paper backgrounds optimally, to avoid tears and creases, and how to store them properly after use.

Whether you’re a professional or amateur photographer, these tips will help you preserve the integrity of your paper backgrounds while maximizing their use for your creative projects.

1. Place the paper background on a hard surface

When shooting in a studio or on-location, remember to place your background support on a hard surface, such as a laminate or concrete floor.

If you unroll your background paper on a “soft” surface, such as a carpeted floor, it’s likely to break and wrinkle more quickly as soon as a model stands on it during the shoot.

2. Use clamps to secure your paper background

To prevent your paper background from unrolling when you set it up, opt for a background system with b-reels, which are equipped with a brake to limit unrolling.

If you have a crossbar system, attach a special clamp for paper backgrounds to each corner of the roll. This will help keep the paper in place and avoid unwanted creases or wrinkles.

3. Tape the paper background to the floor with adhesive tape

When you unroll your paper background, use adhesive tape to secure it to the floor. The tape is easy to remove and doesn’t leave any sticky residue, which is ideal when renting studios or other spaces for your photo shoot.

Simply apply a few strips of tape to the edges of the paper background to keep it securely in place and prevent it from moving during the shoot.

The tape can also be used when you’re finished with the background. Place a piece of tape on both ends and in the middle of the rolled paper background to keep it from unrolling, making it easier to store for your next photo session.

4. Don’t walk on the paper background with your shoes

Avoid walking on the paper background as much as possible, whether during setup or while shooting. Walking on the background with shoes can leave marks and stains on the paper.

To prevent this, use shoe covers or simply take off your shoes!

5. Use a good knife to cut the paper background

When you need to cut a piece of your paper background because it’s damaged, dirty, or wrinkled, avoid using scissors; instead, opt for a sharp knife or cutter.

This will allow you to make quicker and more precise straight cuts. Unroll the paper background, secure it to the floor with adhesive tape, and then cut the section of paper you wish to discard.

6. Store your paper background rolls carefully

There are several specialized systems available for storing and organizing your paper background rolls.

For example, the brand Stacker offers storage racks for paper backgrounds that allow you to keep your rolls upright and easily organize all your backgrounds. These racks can hold up to 12 rolls, stored vertically as recommended by manufacturers, all in a compact space.