10 Unexpected Photo Studio Backdrop Colors To Use During Your Next Photoshoot
- Geni Bean
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
When I shoot in my Durham photo studio, I love to get creative with the background colors and props I style for each session. When you’re shooting on location, you can use the natural environment to experiment with different backgrounds, whereas photos in a studio start with a blank canvas.
Explore all the fun, vibrant colors I’ve incorporated into client photoshoots and get some inspiration for your next in studio photoshoot!
Olive Green
It brings out golden undertones, enhances rich browns, and pairs like magic with neutrals, burnt orange, and gold accessories. I love whipping out this backdrop for Mother Daughter photoshoots, legacy sessions, or any time my clients want to give their photoshoot a bit of a sophisticated vibe.
Outfit ideas to pair with an olive green photo backdrop:
linen sets
chunky knits
leather or suede boots
silk midi skirts
Charcoal Gray Backdrop
It flatters every skin tone, deepens the drama, and looks incredible with soft creams, edgy blacks, and pops of metallic silver or burgundy.
Outfit Ideas to pair with a charcoal gray backdrop:
structured blazers
leather pants
sequined tops
Black Backdrop
This backdrop amplifies contrast and confidence—making bold colors like red, white, and emerald absolutely pop while adding instant elegance to anything it touches.
Hair and makeup looks that photograph magically against a black backdrop:
bold red lips
sleek updo
glowy highlighter
Tan or Beige Photo Backdrop
Warm and welcoming, tan softens the frame, adds a sun-kissed glow to every complexion, and pairs effortlessly with whites, rusts, denim, and natural textures.
Outfit ideas to pair with a neutral backdrop:
denim-on-denim
cozy sweaters
linen jumpsuits
Deep Red Backdrop
This passionate hue intensifies mood and emotion—bringing out the warmth in brown eyes and glowing skin, while pairing beautifully with black, cream, or jewel tones.
Outfit ideas to pair with a red photo studio backdrop:
satin dresses
all-black or monochromatic outfits with one red accessory
Pink Studio Backdrop
We love pink around here, obviously. Bright, bold, or soft and sweet—pink adds instant joy and flirty charm, especially when paired with whites, soft grays, denim, or even deeper shades like plum.
Outfits and fabrics to pair with a pink photography studio backdrop:
white florals
tulle and chiffon fabrics
pearl accents
Purple or Lavender Backdrop
Regal and radiant, purple elevates the moment with a sense of depth and mystery—gorgeous with gold jewelry, soft pastels, or bold blacks for contrast.
Outfit ideas for a purple photo backdrop: Add a whimsy element with butterfly clips, sheer veils, or gold foil freckles.
Teal Blue Backdrop
Vibrant yet grounded, teal makes warm tones glow and cooler tones pop, and it pairs especially well with mustard, coral, ivory, or natural wood accents.
Outfit ideas: A monochromatic brown outfit would pop against a vibrant teal photo studio backdrop!
Navy Blue Backdrop
Sophisticated and timeless, navy creates rich contrast with lighter tones and makes whites, blushes, and warm neutrals stand out with confidence.
Outfit ideas to pair with a navy photo backdrop:
Stripes or polka dots
cream matching sets
satin gowns
pearl-studded headbands
White Studio Background
Crisp, clean, and luminous—white creates a dreamy canvas that reflects light beautifully and complements literally everything from bold patterns to soft pastels. When it comes to outfits, the sky is truly the limit!
Multicolored Backdrop
Bold, playful, and full of personality—multicolored backdrops bring instant energy and pair best with simple outfits that let your spirit do the talking.
Outfit ideas for multicolored photo backdrops: Style in monochrome outfits with metallic or bejeweled details so you're not competing so much with the background.
Fun Photo Studio Props
From vintage chairs to floating florals, I keep my photo studio stocked with hundreds of fun props designed to elevate your story, add texture, and layer in little surprises that make your session uniquely yours.
Check out this list of photoshoot props you can incorporate in your next studio session!
Category | Prop Ideas |
Statement Pieces | Disco balls • Neon signs • Acrylic chairs • Velvet ottomans |
Textures & Draping | Sheer fabrics • Fringe curtains • Linen throws • Faux fur rugs |
Floral & Botanical | Hanging florals • Pampas grass • Dried leaves • Flower clouds |
Playful & Personal | Vintage suitcases • Retro telephones • Bubbles • Balloons • Vinyl records |
Reflective Magic | Hand mirrors • Gold trays • Plexiglass tiles • Prism filters |
Motion Makers | Hand fans • Ribbons • Confetti cannons • Fabric toss accessories |
Ready To Book Your Durham NC Photoshoot in the Pink Owl Studio?
Geni Bean Portraits by Pink Owl specializes in creating an uplifting, empowering environment where you can feel like the most beautiful and confident version of yourself.
If you’re looking for experienced photographers in Durham, NC who know how to make studio sessions fun and stress-free, you’re in the right place. Let’s make magic happen—book your studio session today!
Looking for more tips? Keep exploring the blog for expert advice on rocking your next photoshoot!
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