Paints to Use When Painting Backdrops for Photography

Latex

• Some photographers prefer to use latex paint to create a backdrop for taking portraits. Avoid using house paint since it is often made of latex. House paint contains additives that cause the paint to become chalky and crack, especially if you were to fold the backdrop to transport for photos in other locations or for storage. Instead, choose an interior wall paint to ensure it will stand up to repeated use and storage.

Enamels

• Flat enamel paints are a suitable option for painting on canvas or muslin backdrops. You can easily paint your backdrop using one of a couple of different methods of painting. Apply the paint using a sponge to allow some of the original background color to show through. If you paint the backdrop with a paintbrush, you can create a mottled look to the backdrop. A cloth-covered board will create the same effect.

Acrylics

• Acrylic paints work in much the same way as flat enamels. However, you can thin the acrylic paint with paint thinner to use in an airbrush. When you apply the paint via airbrush, you can spread the paint evenly and create a lightly painted effect. Using an airbrush to paint your backdrop, the airbrush gives you complete control over where the paint falls on the canvas or muslin sheet. This allows you to create a fully customized backdrop using more than one color if you desire.

Spray Paints

• If you don't have an airbrush to create your backdrop, you may choose to use spray paints for a similar effect. Spray paint doesn't provide you with as much control as an airbrush, but you can create a similar effect. However, if you use spray paint, it is important to create your backdrop in a fully ventilated area. It is also important to air out the backdrop before you use it in a studio to vent away any fumes.

Fabric Dye

• As an alternative to paint, you can also create a colored backdrop with fabric dye. This dye works best when used with muslin rather than canvas. If you wrap up your muslin backdrop in rubber bands before soaking it in the dye, you can create a tie-dyed effect. Otherwise, you can soak the muslin in the dye completely to create a solid-colored backdrop for your photographs.