Simple Photography Backdrop

by nickodemus in Craft > Photography

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Simple Photography Backdrop

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Often when making instructables, the need to photograph small objects arises. This implement helps out, it makes for a softer background than a desk or table. Thus, better photos.

The total cost is under $2, but most of the materials can be found around the house. It's small enough to fit in a desk, so now you can publish all of those "Office Weapons" instructables on location - at the office.

Now, let's get to it.

Tools & Materials

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You'll need the following:
  • A coat hanger
  • Paperclips (not pictured)
  • Paper
  • Measuring tape
  • Pliers, preferably two
  • Scissors (optional)
  • Electrical tape (optional)

Prepping

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Cut the hook off of the coat hanger, so we can start bending. It may take a bit of strength.

Straightening

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Straighten out the majority of the hanger, but leave the end bent, we'll cut this off later anyways.

The Initial Bend

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Try to find the relative middle of the wire, it doesn't need to be exact. Measure out about 7 inches, or a little less than the width of your paper. Mark it with a pen, or just guesstimate. Then bend both sides.

More Bending

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Mark one inch from each bend just made. Then bend these straight up, it should look like the second picture when you're done.

Bending "Eye" Hooks

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From the point we just bent, measure 5 inches, or half the length of your paper. At the five inch mark, start bending a "U" shape, and clip the end off, like the second and third photos. Repeat this for both sides. Don't close it all the way yet.

Adding Clips

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Slide a paperclip onto the hook, then pinch the hook closed. Make sure the paperclip won't slide off. Repeat on the other side.

Finished!

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Just attach a piece of paper with the paperclips, and finished. You can add some electric tape to the corners that touch the surface, for a little grip. Mine already came with a coating, so I didn't do that.

Hoped you liked my instructable, and upload a photo of yours if you make one.