Mounting the new white vinyl backdrop on the studio wall was a bigger challenge than expected. What follows are the trials and tribulations of mounting a photo studio backdrop.
As mentioned in the last newsletter, we’re in the process of implementing many changes in the studio and redesigning our portrait packages to start offering family and pet portraiture. A key part to this was mounting the extra wide vinyl backdrop on the studio wall. This is because:
- it was so long it was difficult to mount on stands.
- when it wasn’t in use it laid along the studio floor. Making the studio look cluttered.
- it will get used more frequently with family portraits. Having it mounted on the wall will save me a lot of time.
- and it will be safer for families
After removing the old curtains and curtain rail the first challenge became apparent. The window recess was too close to the corner of the room. The only way to mount the brackets would be with the chain mechanism on the right and side. But this would block the entry through one of the studio doors. The bottom bracket was also too low for the door to open. I decided the best solution was to cut off the bottom hook off the bracket. And mount the bracket above the window with the chain mechanism on the left hand side. Imke agreed this was the best idea.
Calumet's photo studio background mounting system
Calumet's photo studio background mounting system showing the three hooks for three backgrounds.
The next challenge was mounting the bracket. I couldn’t drill the holes just about the window and hitting the lintel so had to buy shorter screws. Finally the brackets were up and it came time to proudly mount my new backdrop.
Calumet bracket mounted above the studio window.
But the aluminium tube was too narrow for the mounting mechanism.
I contacted Bassel Studios where I’d purchased the backdrop to seek their advice. They directed me to the Aluminium Warehouse, where I could purchase 2 inch aluminium tubes. I ordered two tubes so I’ve got one spare for a future backdrop.
5M aluminium tubes on studio floor
The aluminium tubes arrived a few days later. After cutting the tubes to the correct length it was easy to transfer the white vinyl onto the new supporting roll.
During the process, it became clear that it wouldn’t be possible to put the net curtain back up. This was easy to fix with a vertical blind system. I bought vertical blinds off eBay, which were made to the appropriate size. Drilling holes for the rail I avoided the lintel. But the brick work is incredibly hard and it destroyed a drill bit after only drilling three holes!
Studio backdrop mounted with chain mechanism on left hand side. Vertical blinds make the window look more homely.
It’s now finished and looking very smart. Over the next few weeks, I’ll fill the holes from the old curtain rail and repaint the studio. At least that’s the plan
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