How to choose a backdrop colour for a photoshoot

In this blog, we’ll tackle a question I’m asked before nearly every photoshoot: What backdrop colour should I choose for my photoshoot?

While there’s often no clear wrong choice, selecting the right colour or style can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for.

For example, if you’re getting a headshot for your dental clinic website, a black background with dim lighting may not be the best choice—it could come across as sinister, and we all know how many people already fear going to the dentist!

Common photoshoot backdrop colour options to consider:

White Colour

A timeless classic, a white background provides a clean and simple aesthetic that is very versatile. With a white background, the focus will be drawn towards the subject, the pose and the body language. This is great for when the photo will be used on a cluttered web-page — hence why most LinkedIn profile photos are against a white background; the attention is directed towards a person’s face and expression.

Due to its simplicity, it’s quite easy to manipulate in post-production, allowing for the addition of graphics or for cutting out the subject to place onto different backgrounds. This is especially useful for e-commerce and product photography.

White and similar minimalist colours create a uniform look, which is perfect for showcasing team headshots on a ‘meet the team’ page.

Lastly, white can convey a clean and ‘sterile’ aesthetic, which is particularly desirable in fields such as medical and health & beauty industries.

Consider white if:

• You’re seeking a simple social media profile photo
• You work at an aesthetic clinic, or medical practice
• You are selling a product

Grey/Beige Colour

Various shades of grey and beige offer a nice step up from a simplistic white background. These colours remain neutral while adding more warmth to the overall feel of the photo. A portrait on a soft grey background can make the subject appear more approachable compared to a pure white alternative.

Conversely, dark grey or black can create a more dramatic mood, which is especially effective for actor headshots and modelling portfolios. In short, different shades of grey and beige provide emotional flexibility to suit the end user’s objectives.

Lastly, grey and beige make for timeless backdrops—as they seemingly never go out of style. These neutral colours often complement whatever the subject chooses to wear for the photo.

Consider grey/beige if; 

• You’re want add a touch of emotion/tone to your portrait
• You’re a model/actor/musician trying to set a tone
• You want a timeless photo that will look great in many years to come

Vivid (Pink, red)

Vivid colours are excellent for capturing and retaining attention. A bright pink profile photo in a busy comment section will certainly help you stand out.

Strong colours are also effective for setting an emotional tone. For example, if you’re a professional entertainer or dancer, a cover photo with a bright yellow or orange backdrop can portray your fun personality!

Additionally, using your brand’s primary colour can drive brand familiarity when your portrait is featured.

Consider vivid colours if; 

• You want to grab attention or make a statement
• You plan to use the portrait for a magazine cover or publication
• You want to tie your portrait to your brand’s aesthetic

Nature Backdrop

Having your portrait taken against a natural setting can work wonders in multiple ways.

A portrait surrounded by greenery can make you appear more genuine, like a friend has captured a great photo of you while hiking, for example. This stands in stark contrast to a staged studio photography session. While this may not matter for most use cases, it can be significant for casual applications like dating profile photos.

If your job or brand is linked to nature in any way, a photoshoot at your local park can further associate your brand with the outdoors.

The only downside to working outside is the unpredictable weather and lighting. Conversely, a studio offers a controlled environment any day of the week.

Consider a natural background if; 

• You want to appear more casual or candid
• You want to instil a sense of calm in your portrait.
• Your brand is associate to nature or well-being

Office/City Landscape

The professional’s choice. An office environment conveys a sense of professionalism, making it ideal for corporate headshots.

It communicates that you’re accustomed to the hustle and bustle of city life and that you thrive in such environments, which can be reassuring to employers and clients.

An urban or city landscape can provide an intriguing backdrop that’s hard to replicate. It’s unlikely anyone else will have the same setting as you!

Consider a city/office background if; 

• You want to instil a sense of professionalism
• You work in a corporate job sector
• Your brand is associated to a particular location or landmark

I hope you found this blog post helpful! If you have any questions about choosing a backdrop colour for your upcoming photoshoot, be sure to drop them in the comment section below.