How to get a black background in your photographs

I am going to share this info using GIMP, which is a free photo editing tool. Kind of like Photoshop, which I love, but this is free and in my book, I love free.

I realize that arranging things for a photo is hard to do. Especially if there is tons of clutter (noise) around it. Like dirty dishes, mail left on the table, laundry on the floor, oh wait that’s me.

It really is much easier to find a solid background and then just then add/subtract filler items for context. If you are doing garden photography, like a flower or leaf, it’s actually called a specimen shot where the interest is focused on the individual flower, plant, or even a bug.

I know I love a white background, I always think the specimen really stands out but the problem with white, is the shadows. Unless you are a master at photo shop, when an image is on the white background, it doesn’t show as much detail. But it does look nice and clean.

Plus it’s really easy to create a black back ground.

So let’s get to it and how to turn your boring photos into a popping colorful piece of art. I am getting carried away, because once I figured out how to do it, I became addicted.

This is just one way to get the black background but I found it the easiest.


Step one
The most inexpensive and potentially the easiest way to create a black background is get your butt outdoors.

You will need a sunny day and look for long shadows and architectural shade (like a car or building).

Get yourself a dark surface, like a black poster board or black fabric and just put it on the ground.

Step two

Place the item you're photographing in the sun but right on the border of shade.

Place your black poster board underneath or behind the item that’s in the shade.

Angle your camera to capture the item with the black, shaded background filling the frame. This might take a few tries to get the angle and arrangement just so.

Once you have got the shot you want, skip to Step 5. Steps 3 & 4 are for indoors.

Step 3.
Alright, so you rather do the shot indoors, if you do, then you have to step something up inside.

You will need something black to hang in the background and a spotlight. (You can get one of those cheap work lights at home depot for 6 bucks.

Here is how I personally have arranged the setup for my shot:

I placed a chair on the table with a piece of black poster board and taped to the back of the chair. I then attached a work light with a daylight bulb and then hung a piece of old bubble wrap over it to diffuse the light. I kept the curtains open for extra light, and I used my tripod.

Step 4

Position the lamp so that it shines on the item but not on the background. This might take a bit of time to get the item and the lamp positioned just right.

Now angle your camera to capture the item with the black background filling the frame. Now take your shot.

Step 5
Edit in Gimp. I do love GIMP, it’s free and you can download it right from the internet.
Crop your image the way you want it.

Adjust color levels. "Pick Black Point" will probably take care of any adjustments you need to make.

Resize if necessary.

Once done, right click and save it and you’re done!

I know I know you really want the white background, stick around and I’ll explain how to get a perfect white background. Even some tips on making your subjects look all wet and shiny.





I know I know you really want the white background, stick around and I’ll explain how to get a perfect white background. Even some tips on making your subjects look all wet and shiny.