In this video, @heyashleyboring will guide you through the various backdrop sizes, from 5×7 to 9×20, and explain how to pick the perfect one for your space, subject, and style. We’ll explore the benefits of compact sizes like the 5×7 for headshots and product photography, the versatile 8×8 for small group shots, and the expansive 9×20 for full-body portraits and dynamic poses. We’ll also share some pro tips on setting up and using Westcott’s line of wrinkle-resistant backdrops, which are not only machine washable but also easy to transport.
Whether you’re shooting in a small home studio or need a backdrop that works on-location, we’ve got you covered! By the end of this video, you’ll have a clear idea of which backdrop size will help you achieve the best results for your photography.
Gear Used:
X-Drop 3-Pack Backdrop Kit (5′ x 7’):
X-Drop 3-Pack Sweep Backdrop Kit (5′ x 12’):
X-Drop Pro 3-Pack Backdrop Kit (8′ x 8’):
X-Drop Pro Wrinkle-Resistant Sweep Backdrop Kit – High-Key White (8′ x 13’):
Background Support System (10.5′ width):
X-Drop Backdrop Stand (5′ x 7’):
X-Drop Pro Backdrop Stand (8′ and 5′ Wide):
Wrinkle-Resistant Backdrop – Periwinkle Purple (9′ x 10’):
Wrinkle-Resistant Backdrop – Blush Pink (9′ x 20’):
X-Drop Wrinkle-Resistant Backdrop – Scarlet Red (5′ x 7’):
X-Drop Pro Wrinkle-Resistant Backdrop – Light Moss Green (8′ x 8’):
00:00 – Intro
01:08 – 5×7 Backdrop
01:33 – 5×12 Sweep Backdrop
02:11 – 8×8 Backdrop
02:40 – 8×13 Sweep Backdrop
03:04 – 9×10 Backdrop
03:46 – 9×20 Sweep Backdrop

Comments
13 responses to “How to Choose the Best Backdrop Size for Portrait Photography”
I would like to see in future 2×3 meter and 1.5×3 meter , for me that will be ideal.
I wish you have more backdrop options with the 8×13…
I’m getting a 7×5 backdrop what size stand would I need ?
what is the reference of the transparent big umbrella ? It seems bigger than the 45' i see on your site
i have xdrop and xdrop pro and i am disapointed of pro one because 8' width is better but 8' height is often too high for most of room i shoot in. 7' height was perfect for all portraits never exceeding 1.8m. A pity Westcott didn't find a easy way, without wrinckles, to reduce 8×8 to 7×8
I see a lot of comments for the 8×13
A 12x 15 would be nice. I’ve used the 9×20, 8×13 and the 5×7; my go to is the 8×13 but isn’t quite large enough. A 12×15 would be perfect for what I photo. I even had 2 9×20 sewn together to give me a very large background for my sport shoots.
I wish this was available when I bought my backdrop. I bought a 10×10 its too big
My go to size is the 8 x13
I just started using the 5×12 but love the flexibility to use the 5×7
I use the 8x13s a lot for dog portraits at the local Humane Society and the 8×8 to make use of some of the great painted backgrounds.
I use the 8×8 most of the time, although I still like having the sweep to prevent gaps between the backdrop and the floor. I rarely use the sweep, as it wrinkles, and I don't like that it sinks in when you stand on it. I've used the 9×20 in landscape position (9' H x 20' W) for large dance groups.
Bruh