FAQ

HAND PAINTED BACKDROP BY HAPACA STUDIO EXPLAINED

Our hand-painted backdrops are created using a variety of techniques, including roller, brush, and airbrush, with acrylic paint on a 10 oz (285g)/sqm organic cotton canvas. Each painted canvas is rolled onto a 13ft (390cm) cardboard tube, 5cm inside diameter, fitting a standard scaffolding pole. The canvas, including the cardboard tube, weighs around 12kg, varying with the amount of paint used. These backdrops are transported in padded bags weighing approximately 1kg, ensuring safe and easy handling.

Renting a Backdrop

Renting a backdrop from us is easy! Simply visit our Rental section, select the backdrop(s) you'd like to rent by clicking 'REQUEST HIRE', proceed to your basket, fill out the necessary details on the form, and click 'Finish Order'. Please note that submitting the form does not confirm the rental; it is only a booking request. Once we receive your request, a member of our team will contact you as soon as possible to finalize the rental.

Certainly, we offer the option to add a background support system when filling out a booking request. If you or your location do not have one available, simply select the add-on option during the booking process.

An additional day fee may incur if a backdrop is returned after the agreed time. HAPACA backdrops are to be collected and returned at the times scheduled and are charged accordingly.

Please contact us as soon as you know you’d like to extend your booking, as the backdrop may already be on option with a different client. In general, though, it’s not a problem.

We are open Monday – Saturday, 9.00 am – 6.00 pm but we have a drop off/pick up box at DRS where you can collect and drop of backdrops 24/7. 

Delivery and Transport

Yes, we do offer delivery services by our partner DRS. We can arrange for delivery/pickup at an additional cost starting from €50 (+ VAT) each way, but prices will vary based on location and time. Please note that we require all bookings to be placed on our website at least 24 hours in advance of your shoot date to ensure a delivery slot. Alternatively, you may choose to arrange your own courier for transportation, in which case you will take full responsibility for the proper transportation of the rented backdrops to and from HAPACA studio.

For deliveries outside Berlin and abroad, please clarify with DRS or make your own courier arrangements. However, we are happy to provide you with the weight and dimensions of the backdrops and recommend courier companies if needed.

With Small and Folded Backdrops, you only need a smaller-sized van or even a car - just make sure it can accommodate 300cm. For Medium and Large backdrops, you will need a Luton van or a long wheel-base van which will fit 392cm.

Viewing and Choosing Backdrops

This should be possible but please clarify with DRS. Ideal is to narrow your selection to 3 backdrops you would like to view and our team at berlin@hapacastudio.com will let you know the availability and pencil you in.

All our backdrops are shot using flat lighting without any additional contrast and balanced to 5600K. Please be aware that all monitors are color calibrated in different ways, or not at all, so we advise if you’d like to see the true colors please use a properly calibrated monitor, or try to look on different screens. Also, be aware the colors look different in different types of light. For example, if you unroll a backdrop underneath tungsten or fluorescent studio lights, the colors will look different from the colors on our website. Please note that all our rental backdrops are being hired out regularly so they can show various signs of usage, especially within the first 6ft (2m) where the subject usually stands. These are not major markings which would drastically influence the photos. Always be sure to check the High Resolution Image of each particular backdrop to see the most accurate texture. If you need the backdrop to be absolutely flawless without any usage marks please check with us so we can make sure it will meet your expectations, especially when shooting moving images where spots can't be retouched. Our backdrops are made of 9oz and 10oz organic canvas so there will be some light material creases in the fabric compared to purposely built MDF board flats.

Backdrop Care and Damage

"Here's a detailed video to help you"

Avoid using sharp objects to remove the tapes from the backdrop.

If you need to stand on the backdrop, ensure your shoes are clean first.

For models wearing heels, attach gaffer tape or soft pads to the heels to prevent serious damage and tears. Please do not use staples!

When rolling the backdrop back up, it is crucial to do so on a clean, level floor. If you don’t have enough floor space, you may use a scaffolding pole; however, be careful to avoid excessive bending, as this can cause creases and damage to the fabric. Ideally, roll it from the middle while supporting the bar to keep it straight, ensuring a smooth roll.

Please report any damages to us promptly.

Absolutely not, we will need to charge you a full replacement fee.

In the event of loss, theft, or damage, the client is liable for a replacement or damage fee (please read the “Damage Charge Sheet")

Booking and Payments

We can arrange this if we are given at least 24 hours' notice ahead of the booking to change delivery times and make sure your new requested backdrop is available.

Unfortunately not, once the backdrop is out on hire, we can't rent to other customers, therefore we have to charge.

Product Information

The cotton canvas or the acrylic paint we use are not highly flammable although our backdrops are NOT FIRE RESISTANT.

All backdrops rolled on a cardboard tube MUST NOT be folded, this can damage the backdrop beyond repair. But we also offer folded backdrops, just choose “Folded” in our search filter when selecting your pieces.

The canvas tends to shrink based on how much acrylic paint is applied but it's never more than 35cm.

Yes, we do create custom backdrops. We would be more than happy to work with you to create a backdrop that meets your specific needs and requirements. Additionally, we have a large selection of backdrops available for purchase on our website. If you don't find what you're looking for there, please feel free to contact us at our London office at office@hapacastudio.com to discuss your custom backdrop needs.

International Services

Yes, you can take our backdrops to any destination but please be aware, you need to organise your own transport.

Usage of Website Images

All images are subject to copyright; therefore, any further use except references is prohibited.

*Please note that the information provided in this FAQ is subject to change. For the most up-to-date general information and assistance, please contact our London head office at office@hapacastudio.com or matt@hapacastudio.com. For all your local related matters please email berlin@hapacastudio.com.