Are Printed PVC Backdrops Shiny?
When you’re setting up your studio lights, the last thing you want is a backdrop that bounces glare back into your lens. One of the most frequent questions we get at CM Props & Backdrops is: "Are your printed PVC backdrops shiny?"
The answer is: It depends, and it’s all relative.
If you are looking for a simple "yes" or "no," it’s hard to give one without context. To help you make the best choice for your studio, let’s break down the science of our prints.
1. The Material vs. The Ink
We print on a high-quality matte PVC material. The substrate itself is not shiny. However, the printing process involves ink, and ink has its own physical properties.
-
The Ink: Ink has a slight, natural iridescence.
-
The Density: This iridescence becomes more noticeable when we print solid or very dark colours, as the ink coverage is much heavier.
-
The Surface: It is important to note that our backdrops are not coated with a gloss finish or a UV laminate that creates a "plastic" look. They remain uncoated to keep them as matte as possible.
2. Relative to What?
When photographers ask about "shine," they are usually comparing PVC to seamless paper.
-
Compared to Paper: Yes, PVC will always have a slightly higher "sheen" than paper because paper is incredibly porous and absorbs light completely.
-
The Trade-off: While paper is flatter, it doesn't allow for custom colours, it’s easily damaged, and you can't wipe it clean. Our PVC is built for durability and long-term studio use.
Why Are our Large Printed Studio Backdrops Different
We don’t just hit "print" on a file. We’ve spent years testing print techniques to ensure our backdrops work for photographers, not against them.
We have carefully chosen colours and photographed textures that give the most matte effect by "breaking up" the way light hits the surface and reducing the appearance of any ink iridescence.
Still Worried About the Sheen?
We want you to be 100% confident in your setup before you invest in a large backdrop. We offer two ways to ensure you get exactly what you need:
-
Request a Print Sample: For $50 + postage, we can print a sample of your specific design or custom color. This allows you to test it under your own lighting style before committing to a full-sized backdrop.
-
Go for the "Ultra-Matte" Option: If your work requires the flattest finish possible (like high-key commercial work), we recommend our Solid Colour Studio Backdrops. These are our most matte option and are a favourite for portrait photographers.
Pro Tip for Shooting PVC
If you do notice a slight sheen when using dark or solid colours, simply feather your light. By angling your light source slightly or using a larger soft box, you can eliminate any direct reflections and achieve a beautiful, professional finish
Choosing Your Surface: PVC vs. Seamless Paper
To help you decide which material is right for your specific studio needs, here is a quick breakdown of how our printed PVC compares to traditional seamless paper.
| Feature | CM Props Printed PVC | Standard Seamless Paper |
| Matte Finish | Matte material, though heavy ink coverage (dark/solid colours) can have a sheen and need to be lit carefully. | The "gold standard" for flat finishes; absorbs almost all light. |
| Customization | Completely customizable! We can print almost any color or digital texture you need. | Limited to the specific color ranges offered by manufacturers. |
| Durability | High. It’s heavy-duty, tear-resistant, and designed to last for years. | Low. It rips easily and is prone to permanent creasing and footprints. |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean. Just wipe it down and it's ready for the next client. | Single-use if it gets dirty. You have to cut off the used section and throw it away. |
| Long-term Value | A one-time investment that stays in your kit for the long haul. | A recurring cost as you constantly run through and replace rolls. |
Finding Your Perfect Match
If your priority is the durability of PVC but you need the flattest finish possible, we highly recommend our Solid Colour Studio Backdrops. These are dyed, non-PVC, specifically designed to be our most matte option for portrait photographers.
If you are still on the fence about a specific custom colour or design, remember that you can always request a print sample for $50 + postage. It’s the best way to "try before you buy" and see exactly how the ink interacts with your specific lighting style.
