[ashbbrunton]

I'm probably the biggest stalker to this board, but I'm having to make my entrance asking about something that I have no idea about. Backdrops and support systems. My mother in law is set on getting these for me and she wants me to basically pick it out and email her the link.

I'm extremely new to "good" photography...other than working at Picture people in college, which I know is Totally different. I'm just getting my first SLR for Christmas from my DH. Should I have MIL go a different route and get something I might use more or do you recommend having a backdrop and stands? If I should get these what size and should I go muslin or with something else.

I have a 1 year old so for a long time I will only be photographing her and I prefer outdoor photos if that makes a difference.

[.H.e.a.t.h.e.r.]

if you prefer out door shoots I would ask for a lens instead of the backdrop set up tbh.

[♥Ashley♥]

Originally Posted by Purple Flower

if you prefer out door shoots I would ask for a lens instead of the backdrop set up tbh.

[Doodle]

i would ask for a lens if you shoot outdoors

backdrop stands are useful for indoor shoots and a total PITA to use outside (you are really at the mercy of the wind)

[MommaDucks]

[mom2baylee&levi]

I was going to suggest the same You are much better off building up your lens collection

[Christine-MA]

ditto! Although maybe next year for xmas you'll want the backdrop since you probably won't shoot much outdoors in IN? That's why I got one this year, to start practicing indoors for winter.

and welcome!

[ashbbrunton]

Ok....soooo if she is set on getting those for me is there a certain brand or size that you guys prefer for the support system?

[Momeejenjen]

I agree Lens instead of backdrop!

[mom2baylee&levi]

If you MUST get a backdrop stand I don't know anything about which ones to suggest lol I'm getting the one from cowboy studio as I've used one and am familiar with it.....I've heard good things aboutt he savage portastand.....I wouldn't go with muslin if it were me because I hate wrinkly backgrounds....I would go with seamless.....

[Teri]

First off - glad you came out of "hiding"

As for the backdrops - I just have a cheap ebay backdrop stand - that works ok, but is pretty flimsy - I heard that B&H photo have nice stands for pretty cheap - I don't know how much she wants to spend on it.

Also, if you do decide on a lens - I would highly suggest the 50mm 1.8 (if you are getting a Canon camera) - it's awesome!

[Matilda]

ditto to what everyone else said.

unless you plan on doing sittings for other people, i wouldn't even bother with a backdrop.

def invest in the lens.