,Basics
For a basic solid backdrop, purchase a few yards of muslin fabric. It is available in several colors and widths. Buy from the widest bolt possible. These are an inexpensive and portable option that you will use over and over again.
Variety
To add even more options to your color palette, paint or dye muslin any color you want. You can match skin tones or clothing choices to each new client.
To create a simple backdrop for professional head shots, purchase various shades of slate blue and gray spray paint. Paint your muslin in a mottling fashion, varying the amounts of each color throughout the fabric.
Painted Scenes
Get really creative and paint a scenic backdrop. Airbrush is a good technique to use. If you don't know how to operate an airbrush, use acrylics and trace your image onto the fabric using a projector. The choices are endless, and you can be as creative as your abilities allow: a wintry scene for Christmas portraits or a flowery meadow for spring pictures. Enhance your newly created backdrops with coordinating props.