General Backdrop Information

  • Backdrop Categories

    Stock Backdrops

    Current shop inventory (ready to ship). Check out our current SHOP.

    Rental Backdrops

    We offer rental backdrops at the best rates. Check out our Rental Page to see our current stock.

    Custom Backdrops

    Unique reproduction* of any existing or previously made Obsidian backdrop. Does not include artist input.

    Artisanal Backdrops

    Fully collaborative experience including an artist call with Derek to create a backdrop according to your vision and needs. See below to read more about The Artisanal Process.

    *Disclaimer: Each backdrop is hand painted and is truly unique. No two backdrops will be identical but we will aim to create as close to the original as we can.

  • The Artisanal Process

    With our artisanal backdrops, we aim to create an unmatched collaborative experience and will harness your vision and bring it to life so that you can create breathtaking art. We're all about customization and creating something that is inherently unique to you! We have the ability to produce something tailor made to your vision. The process begins by filling out the contact form. Start thinking about what elements, styles, colors, and textures inspire you, we want to hear all about it! or, if there’s a backdrop we’ve already made that inspires you feel free to let us know! After submitting the form below, you will be emailed a follow-up in order to get your backdrop ordering process started. Don’t worry if you aren’t quite sure what you want, we will guide you through the process step-by-step.

  • Care & Tips

    We do our best to tape our backdrops with enough reinforcement to hold the weight of the canvas to the pipe but it is highly recommend to never hang by just the tape. When hanging from the pipe end we recommend rolling backwards over itself for two reasons; one, to hide the pipe, and two, two help keep the pipe from sagging.

    Use only a two-inch margin around the edge of the drop when hanging with clamps.

    When not in use, please keep rolled or hanging in a cool, dry place. Moisture causes canvas to stretch and then shrink when it dries. This could potentially cause wrinkles to form.

    If you need to remove any wrinkles we recommend the following methods:

    1) Carefully place paint side down on a smooth surface. Use a clothes iron on the cotton with steam setting to iron out the wrinkle, being careful not to focus on one spot too much. You want to avoid getting the drop too wet. You can iron over a towel as needed.

    2) While hanging, use a hand-held steamer on the non-painted side. Again, avoid concentrating on one spot too long or that will cause stretching and more wrinkles to form.

  • Sizes & Dimensions

    Sizes are not exact and may have a couple/few inches of difference (plus or minus). Dealing with fabric that stretches and shrinks we do our best to control it, however there may be variances.

  • Shipping & Custom Quotes

    Prices shown include free shipping & handling to the 48 contiguous United States. Backdrops over 8-feet wide or shipping to other locations require a custom shipping quote.

  • Choosing a Backdrop

    Derek and Jay are more than happy and qualified to help guide you to the best backdrop for your needs so don’t hesitate to contact us!

    If you are looking for a versatile backdrop, we recommend a middle-grey backdrop. This will allow you to gel it easily and/or color grade it in post.

    For sizes, 6x9 is a great size for single or double portraits. If you are shooting a larger group or need more frame size, 8-foot or wider is recommended.