A Moment Worth Framing
When South African photographer Irvin Van Rooy (@irvinvanrooy_) received our White Paper Backdrop to try out, we were excited to see what he would do with it. We expected test shots. Maybe a few portraits or lighting experiments. What we didn’t expect was something much more meaningful: a deeply personal maternity shoot featuring his radiant wife.
The results? Clean, honest, and full of heart 💚
This blog explores how a simple White Paper Backdrop became the perfect foundation for an unforgettable shoot, why paper backdrops continue to be a studio essential, and how you can use them to bring your own creative vision to life.
Meet the Photographer: Irvin Van Rooy
Irvin Van Rooy is a South African creative who generously shared the results of a maternity shoot done in his studio space. The subject was his wife, the setting was minimal, and the feeling was undeniable.
What we loved most about this session is how effortlessly everything came together. A soft lighting setup, natural connection, and a clean white background allowed the emotion to shine without distractions.
You can follow Irvin’s work on Instagram at @irvinvanrooy_
What Makes a Paper Backdrop So Useful?
A Paper Backdrop is often one of the most overlooked heroes in a photographer’s toolkit. It is reliable, neutral, and highly adaptable to a range of styles, from beauty and fashion to corporate headshots, product photography, and maternity shoots like Irvin’s.
Why photographers love Paper Backdrops:
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Smooth and wrinkle-free
Unlike fabric backdrops, paper doesn’t crease or fold, so your shots always have a professional finish. -
No reflections or shine
Paper absorbs light better than some vinyl or synthetic options, making it ideal for controlled lighting setups. -
Disposable when needed
Shooting a messy set or getting scuff marks on the floor? Just roll it down and cut off the used portion. -
Wide variety of colours
Although Irvin used white, we stock a variety of tones, from neutral greys to vivid reds, to suit every creative direction. -
No texture
The backdrop disappears into the background, allowing your subject to remain the focus.
Browse our full collection here:
👉 Paper Backdrops at CameraStuff
The Power of White: Clean, Calm and Classic
White isn’t boring. In fact, it is one of the most powerful choices a photographer can make. In Irvin’s maternity session, the Paper Backdrop helped create a peaceful, modern atmosphere without distracting from the story.
A white backdrop draws attention to emotion, pose, and subtle details. Skin tones pop. Fabric textures are more visible. It is timeless, which means your final images will age gracefully.
Whether you are photographing maternity sessions, portraits, beauty campaigns, or YouTube thumbnails, a white Paper Backdrop gives you that crisp, editorial look without adding visual noise.
Lighting Tips for White Paper Backdrops
If you are going to use white in your studio, lighting becomes even more important. A poorly lit white backdrop can quickly turn grey, dull, or uneven.
Here are a few tips to help:
1. Light the backdrop separately
Use dedicated lights to illuminate the Paper Backdrop, keeping it bright and consistent across the entire width. Two softboxes or reflectors angled at 45 degrees often do the trick.
2. Control light spill
To keep your subject well-defined, use flags, grids, or V-flats to prevent your key light from hitting the background too hard.
3. Maintain distance
Place your subject at least 1 to 2 metres in front of the backdrop. This reduces unwanted shadows and helps separate the subject from the background.
4. Watch your exposure
Use a light meter or histogram to ensure the backdrop is slightly overexposed compared to the subject, especially if you are going for that crisp, seamless white look.
Minimal Setup, Maximum Impact
What we admire about Irvin’s shoot is the way he kept things simple. The focus was entirely on the subject and the moment. There were no complex props, no distractions, and no overediting. Just a soft glow, a quiet pose, and a blank canvas that brought it all together.
And that is what a good Paper Backdrop does. It stays out of the way so the story can unfold.
Planning Your Own Maternity Shoot?
Maternity photography is all about emotion, softness, and honesty. If you are planning one, whether for a client, a loved one, or yourself, here are a few quick pointers:
- Stick with neutral clothing to complement a white or light backdrop
- Avoid busy patterns which can clash with the minimalist aesthetic
- Use soft light such as window light, softboxes, or umbrellas
- Focus on connection whether it is with a partner, the bump, or the future
- Keep posing natural and relaxed with gentle hands, quiet smiles, and soft gazes
You do not need a huge studio to make it work. With the right backdrop and thoughtful lighting, you can create meaningful images in almost any space.
Why We Recommend Paper Backdrops at CameraStuff
At CameraStuff, we have worked with thousands of South African photographers. We have tested, stocked, and shot with a wide variety of gear. When it comes to backdrops, the Paper Backdrop is one of our top recommendations.
Ideal for:
- Portrait photographers who want a clean and polished look
- Videographers filming product reviews or tutorials
- Makeup artists capturing crisp before-and-after shots
- Studio owners offering a versatile setup for clients
- Creatives who want fuss-free backgrounds they can swap out quickly
They are also available in multiple sizes, from compact rolls for tight spaces to wide studio options for full-body portraits.
Ready to roll?
👉 Shop Paper Backdrops
Final Thoughts: A Backdrop That Let the Moment Shine
Irvin’s shoot is a reminder that simplicity is often the strongest choice. When you strip away distractions, you leave room for emotion, presence, and authenticity.
A White Paper Backdrop is not just a background. It is a tool for focus. It is a quiet stage that lets your subjects speak volumes.
We are grateful to Irvin Van Rooy for sharing this beautiful shoot with us. Congratulations to him and his family on this new chapter, and thank you for trusting CameraStuff to be part of the journey.
