Backdrop stand alternate
Apr 18, 2016 06:03:13 #
I'm in the process of finishing our basement, in which I'm creating a small studio space which will also double as a library when not in use.
I've considered the typical background stand system, but what I don't like about them is how much of a footprint the stands take up on the ground. I would also like to avoid permanently mounting anything to the walls/ceiling.
As an alternative I found these, which would have a very small footprint.
http://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008OM1FZU/ref=pd_aw_sim_sbs_421_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=311tGo0TGFL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL200_SR200%2C200_&refRID=13J8FQJXQJ72VYMPDN5T
But they're somewhat pricy. That got me thinking...would a freestanding closet system work? My current paper rolls are only 42" wide and my wisest muslin is 6'. I have upto 8-10' to work with (plus an additional 10' for lights).
Closet system?
http://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B011KB8P5O/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?qid=1460971950&sr=8-8&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=floor+to+ceiling+pole&dpPl=1&dpID=516XNJIXraL&ref=plSrch
I've considered the typical background stand system, but what I don't like about them is how much of a footprint the stands take up on the ground. I would also like to avoid permanently mounting anything to the walls/ceiling.
As an alternative I found these, which would have a very small footprint.
http://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008OM1FZU/ref=pd_aw_sim_sbs_421_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=311tGo0TGFL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL200_SR200%2C200_&refRID=13J8FQJXQJ72VYMPDN5T
But they're somewhat pricy. That got me thinking...would a freestanding closet system work? My current paper rolls are only 42" wide and my wisest muslin is 6'. I have upto 8-10' to work with (plus an additional 10' for lights).
Closet system?
http://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B011KB8P5O/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?qid=1460971950&sr=8-8&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=floor+to+ceiling+pole&dpPl=1&dpID=516XNJIXraL&ref=plSrch
Apr 18, 2016 06:30:19 #
Looks good! I did a systems back in film days that was similar. I used paper rolls. I actually found the poles in dumpster.
J. R.
J. R.
Apr 18, 2016 06:53:54 #
Did you consider mounting your backdrop rolls from the ceiling? That would keep it out of the way & not take any floor space.
Just looked at the 2 links you posted. I like the 2nd one best. It would be very adaptable & easily moved when not in use.
Just looked at the 2 links you posted. I like the 2nd one best. It would be very adaptable & easily moved when not in use.
Apr 18, 2016 07:09:36 #
Szalajj
Loc: Salem, NH
The second one, the closet system, looks promising.
Depending on what finishes you are using on your surfaces, you may need to place something hard and flat between your surface and the pole ends. Rugs with padding, or what contractors call a popcorn surface on your ceiling are not the best surfaces to install if you want to use an expansion or tension pole system.
The popcorn surface on your ceiling, or even ceiling tiles will be damaged with each installation. Think about the materials that you plan to install on the surfaces where the poles will be set up.
Even sheet rock would be hard pressed (sorry about the pun) to stand up to repeated installations. If the poles could remain in place, and only the backdrops were installed and removed for your photo shoots, you would minimize the damage to your surfaces.
If you plan to use a rug with padding under it, you may have to periodically adjust the tension as the rug and pad compress over time. Safety first, you don't want your backdrops falling down and injuring your subject (s).
Depending on what finishes you are using on your surfaces, you may need to place something hard and flat between your surface and the pole ends. Rugs with padding, or what contractors call a popcorn surface on your ceiling are not the best surfaces to install if you want to use an expansion or tension pole system.
The popcorn surface on your ceiling, or even ceiling tiles will be damaged with each installation. Think about the materials that you plan to install on the surfaces where the poles will be set up.
Even sheet rock would be hard pressed (sorry about the pun) to stand up to repeated installations. If the poles could remain in place, and only the backdrops were installed and removed for your photo shoots, you would minimize the damage to your surfaces.
If you plan to use a rug with padding under it, you may have to periodically adjust the tension as the rug and pad compress over time. Safety first, you don't want your backdrops falling down and injuring your subject (s).
Apr 18, 2016 07:16:00 #
Luckily, since the basement was unfinished prior...I know where all the ceiling joists are at. The ceiling is textured (knocked down) so it shouldn't damage the ceiling.
I considered mounting straight to the ceiling but would rather not screw anything into freshly laid (and paid) drywall ceiling.
I considered mounting straight to the ceiling but would rather not screw anything into freshly laid (and paid) drywall ceiling.
Apr 18, 2016 10:10:38 #
Clint, Great idea with that closet hanger system. In my traveling studio days, I used the first link you showed. I liked the spring loading for easy set up. Since yours is fixed the closet one works. Great find.
Cdouthitt wrote:
I'm in the process of finishing our basement, in w... (show quote)
Apr 18, 2016 12:09:27 #
This is a complete system
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/95211-REG/Manfrotto_2961D_2961D_Complete_Deluxe_AutoPole_2.html
You can use these on a background stand with a super clamp
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546378-REG/Manfrotto_059_059_Single_Background_Holder.html
Super clamp. What you don't see is the opening they go into
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546371-REG/Manfrotto_035_035_Super_Clamp_without.html
These hook onto them, and you use paper that comes on a cardboard core. make sure you get the metal chains.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/996653-REG/manfrotto_046mcb_expan_background_paper_drive.html
These connect to a ceiling or a wall, I use two sets in my studio
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546384-REG/Manfrotto_045_045_Background_Triple_Hooks.html
Manfrotto is better quality and you don't want anything falling over during a shoot
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/95211-REG/Manfrotto_2961D_2961D_Complete_Deluxe_AutoPole_2.html
You can use these on a background stand with a super clamp
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546378-REG/Manfrotto_059_059_Single_Background_Holder.html
Super clamp. What you don't see is the opening they go into
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546371-REG/Manfrotto_035_035_Super_Clamp_without.html
These hook onto them, and you use paper that comes on a cardboard core. make sure you get the metal chains.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/996653-REG/manfrotto_046mcb_expan_background_paper_drive.html
These connect to a ceiling or a wall, I use two sets in my studio
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546384-REG/Manfrotto_045_045_Background_Triple_Hooks.html
Manfrotto is better quality and you don't want anything falling over during a shoot
Apr 18, 2016 12:15:31 #
Cdouthitt wrote:
I'm in the process of finishing our basement, in w... (show quote)
BAM!!! looks like the $45.oo item will be a good investment and do exactly what you are looking for!! Does not bolt to your brand new walls or ceiling, and can be stored away easily !! :thumbup: :thumbup:
Apr 18, 2016 12:54:26 #
jim quist wrote:
This is a complete system br http://www.bhphotovid... (show quote)
No doubt that it's nice and probably the best product...but for that price I could fabricate it myself with all my connections I have with aluminum fabricators in the signage world. What I'm trying to do is come up with a much less expensive solution, since the basement finishing is already costing me upwards of $20k.
Apr 18, 2016 15:44:44 #
Cdouthitt wrote:
I'm in the process of finishing our basement, in w... (show quote)
mount two closet rod holders to the ceiling and put in one closed pole. slip the paper rolls on the closet rod and you are done.
Apr 18, 2016 17:25:54 #
orrie smith wrote:
mount two closet rod holders to the ceiling and put in one closed pole. slip the paper rolls on the closet rod and you are done.
I think you missed the part about not screwing anything into the ceiling.
Apr 18, 2016 17:28:15 #
Cdouthitt wrote:
I think you missed the part about not screwing anything into the ceiling.
oops, sorry
Apr 18, 2016 17:42:37 #
orrie smith wrote:
oops, sorry
no prob...just trying to keep from having to fill holes in the future...especially in a ceiling that will have a slight texture to it as I'd never be able to match it.
Apr 19, 2016 06:19:54 #
Cdouthitt wrote:
No doubt that it's nice and probably the best product...but for that price I could fabricate it myself with all my connections I have with aluminum fabricators in the signage world. What I'm trying to do is come up with a much less expensive solution, since the basement finishing is already costing me upwards of $20k.
You could make a free standing frame from 2" PVC. if your space is 8x8 make 2 8x8 frames. Connect them together in the corners.
If you hang a sheet from it you could also use it for silhouettes by illuminating a light behind it.
or get some wide boards and make the frame. then use the kind of hooks you need to hang your paper.
Apr 19, 2016 07:00:51 #
Cdouthitt wrote:
I'm in the process of finishing our basement, in w... (show quote)
If to pricey, make your own from plumbing PVC or electrical conduit. By not wanting to screw things to a wall or ceiling, you're limiting your choices. Anything free standing will cost more regardless of the material/method....made or store bought. If you decide screwing to a wall or ceiling is back in the game plan, Think Window shade mechanism, or something similar to the old slide show screens we had in school hidden behind a valence when not in use.
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.