Stage 02, set up Guide 3 of 4

Backgrounds that look professional

Create a clean, professional background that supports your message without adding complexity, cost, or unnecessary setup.

Updated August 2026

Making the room you already have look good

Ten questions

Start here, before you spend anything. What makes a background look professional is nearly always the wall you already have, lit properly.

Chris Schwager on what makes a video background look professional

How important is the background in video?

Backgrounds matter for consistency and brand perception, but simplicity wins. Many clients use plain walls successfully once lighting is controlled. A clean, repeatable look is more valuable than a visually busy setup.

Will people stop watching if my background looks bad?

There’s no fixed point where viewers drop off solely because of background. Content matters most. That said, poor visuals can undermine credibility and distract from the message.

why what you say still matters more than what is behind you

Should I use a green screen or style a physical background?

Styling the background, yes. But no green screen. We don’t support green screens because of the level of complexity that most people are not down with. Green screen done well is fine. Green screen not done well and not lit properly looks bad. We’ve talked people down out of it just to keep things simple.

see why a green screen is more hassle than it’s worth

Can I use a video as my background?

It’s not recommended. It adds complexity similar to green screening, requires post-production, and increases friction. The priority is simplicity and speed.

Are physical backgrounds better than virtual backgrounds?

Yes. Physical backgrounds are consistent, faster, and avoid the visual artefacts and blur associated with virtual backgrounds.

Can lighting really make a plain background look professional?

Yes. Lighting creates depth, separation, and focus. Even simple backgrounds can look cinematic when lit correctly.

Can I make my background interesting without it being distracting?

Yes. Controlled lighting can turn even a plain wall into a professional, cinematic backdrop. Interest comes from depth, lighting, and framing, not clutter.

What colours work best for a studio background?

We have a colour palette for recommendations. We don’t advise on anything vibrant. Go with dull, muted, really flat style colours because that’s going to serve you best. We want you to be the hero of the shot and not compete with a background that is too saturated and crazy. Lighting has a huge impact.

see what lighting comes with the studio

fix your video background with coloured paper

Can I use my open-plan office as a background?

You can, but it introduces sound, lighting, and visual inconsistencies. Office movement and glass walls make control difficult and slow down production.

see where the hours actually go

Will my background look like the examples I have seen?

Not necessarily. Backgrounds depend on the room, but controlled lighting dramatically improves any space. What matters is consistency and control, not copying another setup.

Adding a backdrop system

Eight questions

This is the paid answer. When the room can’t get you there on its own, a backdrop system gives you several looks without moving any furniture.

Do I need a branded or plain background straight away?

No. Many clients start with a simple background. Once lighting is installed and framing is locked in, backgrounds often look far better than expected Branding elements and backdrop systems can be added later once the studio is established and visual preferences are clearer. Many clients start with a plain wall. Once professional lighting is installed, even simple backgrounds look dramatically better without additional styling. While lower-cost solutions can work, a dedicated system provides speed, consistency, and visual flexibility. Backgrounds can be changed instantly without moving furniture or cluttering the space. It gives you up to 6 paper or branded (media wall) background options, in addition to what you already have behind you.

When should I customise my background?

No. Many clients start with a simple background. Once lighting is installed and framing is locked in, backgrounds often look far better than expected Branding elements and backdrop systems can be added later once the studio is established and visual preferences are clearer. Many clients start with a plain wall. Once professional lighting is installed, even simple backgrounds look dramatically better without additional styling. While lower-cost solutions can work, a dedicated system provides speed, consistency, and visual flexibility. Backgrounds can be changed instantly without moving furniture or cluttering the space. It gives you up to 6 paper or branded (media wall) background options, in addition to what you already have behind you.

Why does a backdrop system cost more than a pull-up banner?

The system requires custom rigging, spooling onto metal rods, shipping, and installation. It’s designed to be permanent, clean, and easy to use, unlike temporary banner solutions that take up space and are awkward to manage.

Can I choose different colours for the backdrop?

Yes. Multiple colour options and print designs are available, allowing you to switch looks depending on the type of content you’re recording.

design a media wall that keeps you the hero on camera

How do I choose between two, four, or six backdrop scenes?

It depends on how much variety you want. Two scenes work if you’re on a tight budget, but they limit flexibility. Four scenes offer balance and variety. Six scenes give the most options and long-term value, especially if you’re producing diverse content or supporting multiple purposes.

see the backdrop options on the upgrades page

Can I use different backdrops for different types of content?

Yes. Multiple backdrops using the background upgrade allow you to visually separate content types, campaigns, or audiences while using the same studio setup. You can switch between clean studio looks and office backgrounds instantly as needed.

Can I get a backdrop that pulls down like a blind?

Yes. A backdrop system can be installed that pulls down like blinds and retracts when not in use, allowing you to alternate between studio and office environments.

How much space do I need for the backdrop system?

Ideally around two metres from your desk. The backdrop system is 3 metres for the best visual coverage and can be modified for smaller spaces. It requires minimal floor space.

see how the studio fits a smaller room

Want to see this running in your own setup?

Get an answer for your room and your wall, not a generic one.

See what this looks like for you
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