Glowing Backdrop

[SterlingNYC]

This photo came about when my model fished out the teal stones from my props tub and squealed "They're the same color as my shoes!" She seemed so thrilled about the coincidence that I really wanted to do something with it and make her happy, so I threw this arrangement together.

What I really think makes this photo fun is that the backdrop also serves as a light source. I took an old cream colored bed sheet and taped the upper half of it across the doorway and laid the rest across the floor. Then being very careful to prevent singeing, I placed a tungsten lamp very close behind it. Besides being bright and warm this technique has provided me with some of the most expansive and seamless backdrops I've used in my little apartment studio.

I removed wrinkles in the fabric with Gaussian blur in Photoshop, but I think an iron would do the same.

Next, I plan on using a white light, a dollar store table cloth, and tree-branches to cast shadows and bring winter into my studio.

[Mpow]

"I removed wrinkles in the fabric with Gaussian blur in Photoshop, but I think an iron would do the same."

HaHa! I actually just bought a sheet to use as a backdrop, but haven't tried it yet because it is in desparate need of ironing. Now I know there are options!
Love the idea of putting the shadows behind. Post some examples when you try it.