Lighting Top Tips: How to Master the Matte Look with PVC Backdrops

At CM Props & Backdrops we have mastered the art of bringing you the most matte PVC backdrops around. We have sourced matte PVC material and tested so many ink types and machines! PVC is extremely durable and easy to care for, however darker colours and solid prints carry more ink density, which can lead to a sheen under direct light. If you are aiming for that "velvet matte" finish, follow these simple lighting adjustments to eliminate sheen.

The most common cause of sheen is direct reflection. If your light is pointing directly at the backdrop and your camera is in the "line of fire," you will see the reflection of the light source.

• The Fix: Position your lights at a 45-degree angle or greater relative to the backdrop. This ensures any light bouncing off the surface reflects away from your lens, not into it.

2. Feather Your Light

"Feathering" means using the edge of your light source rather than the bright center "hot spot."

• The Fix: Aim your softbox slightly in front of your subject rather than directly at them. The subject still gets beautiful light, but the intensity hitting the backdrop is reduced and more diffused.

3. Increase Distance (Separation)

The closer your subject is to the backdrop, the closer your light source likely is to the backdrop.

• The Fix: Pull your subject 3–5 feet away from the PVC. This allows the light hitting the backdrop to fall off naturally, making it appear darker and much more matte.

4. Use Large Modifiers

Small, hard light sources (like a bare flash or a small reflector/diffuser) are more likely to catch the "peaks" of the texture or create specular highlights on the ink.

• The Fix: Use the largest softbox or octabox you have. The larger the light source, the more it wraps around the texture rather than highlighting it.

5. Flag Your Lights

If you are getting too much "spill" hitting the backdrop, use a flag (a piece of black foam core or a "v-flat").

• The Fix: Place a flag between your light and the backdrop. This allows you to keep your subject brightly lit while keeping the backdrop in a controlled, matte shadow.

 Pro Summary:

If you see a shine, move the light or move the subject. By controlling the "angle of incidence," you can make even the darkest printed PVC look as flat and deep as expensive seamless paper—with the added bonus that you can wipe your PVC clean at the end of the day!