What’s the best Etsy photo backdrop setup for home decor and hats?

Hi! For a mix like home decor pieces, door signs, and hats, the easiest “best all-around” Etsy photo setup at home is a simple 24x24 backdrop surface (matte, non-reflective) paired with soft side lighting—natural window light can absolutely be enough to start, and I’d skip a ring light as your main light for product photos (it tends to create flat lighting and weird circular catchlights on glossy finishes).

If you want one backdrop setup that works for almost everything

• Matte foam board or “seamless” paper (white + one neutral): Grab two 24x36 sheets and cut down if you want a true 24x24. Use one as the “table” and one as the “wall” behind it to make a smooth curve (an “infinity sweep”) so you don’t see a hard corner line.
• Colors that sell well on Etsy:
  • Soft white / warm white for clean, bright listings
  • Light gray for hats and anything light-colored (prevents blowing out whites)
  • Warm beige/tan if your style is more rustic/home decor
• Avoid shiny vinyl/poster board if you can—glare is a constant battle, especially with painted door signs or anything with a clear coat.

A super easy “works every time” backdrop build (no fancy gear)

• Put your backdrop next to a big window (indirect light is best—no harsh sun beams).
• Set the setup so the window is 45° to the left or right of the product (not directly behind it).
• Use a white foam board opposite the window as a reflector to fill shadows (this is the cheapest “light upgrade” you can do).

Lighting: start simple, then upgrade if needed
Natural light is enough if you can consistently shoot near the same window and time of day. If your photos look different every time (cloudy day vs sunny day), that’s when adding artificial light is worth it.

If you want an easy starter lighting kit (more consistent than a ring light)

• Two softbox lights or two LED panel lights (daylight-balanced) placed at 45° angles to the product, slightly above it, aimed down.
• If you only buy one light, put it at 45° and use a reflector board on the other side.

Why I wouldn’t start with a ring light (especially for your products)

• It’s designed more for faces and creates flat, front-on lighting.
• On hats, painted signs, or anything semi-glossy, it can cause hot spots and a visible circle reflection.
• You’ll usually get more “professional” Etsy listing photos with soft side lighting instead.

How to shoot your specific items

• Door signs (flat pieces): Hang on a simple hook against your backdrop “wall” board, or shoot on a real wall for lifestyle shots. Keep the camera square to the sign to avoid distortion.
• Hats: A neutral gray background helps the shape stand out. Stuff the hat (tissue/paper) or use a simple stand so it keeps form.
• Home decor: Do a clean “catalog” shot on the sweep, then add 1–2 lifestyle shots (on a table/shelf) to show size and use.

Two quick tips that instantly improve Etsy product photos

1. Turn off mixed lighting (overhead room lights + window light together can cause weird color). Use one type of light at a time.
2. Use a tripod or phone stand and tap-to-focus—sharpness is a huge part of “looks pro.”

If you tell me whether you’re shooting with a phone or a camera, and what your products are made of (matte wood, glossy paint, embroidered hats, etc.), I can recommend the best exact background colors and where to place the lights to avoid glare.