If you are an amateur photographer or new to the professional scene you may want to turn a room of your house into a studio. If possible, you should paint the walls black and keep one white wall. Black walls will prevent the light from bouncing off of them and altering your lighting situation. White walls are good when large plain backgrounds are called for. With background lighting, a white wall can also be made to look like anything from white to dark grey. You can also use a dark curtain across a white wall when needed. Try to stay away from colored walls as they reflect colored light too and may affect your photos. A white ceiling may be a good idea as it's easier to bounce flash from it. You can use various white or colored background paper rolls or bed sheets for background effects and scenes as well. These pre-made backgrounds or backdrops can be bought and used in your scenes.
Assorted canvas, velour and muslin backgrounds are popular photography backgrounds, along with plastic materials and assorted large cloths. Your background should have a matte finish as glossy material can cause reflections. Background materials may be held up with brackets, stands, holders, hooks or telescopic ceiling poles, which are also good for lights. Backgrounds come in various materials, sizes, colors and designs. Backdrops can range in price from about $50 to $1,000.
