How to Use a V-Flat Fabric as a Collapsible Background
By Westcott | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to set up and use Westcott V-Flat Fabric panels as a portable, washable background for portraits and video. Step-by-step instructions for white and black fabrics.
Quick answer
Use a Westcott V-Flat Fabric stretched over its frame as a collapsible, washable background that sets up in seconds and folds flat for transport.
White vs Black Fabric: Which Background to Choose
The white V-Flat Fabric bounces light for soft, flattering fill on headshots and interviews. It also works as a book light when you fold the two sides together for even illumination across your subject or background.
The black V-Flat Fabric absorbs light to deepen shadows and sculpt faces with contrast. Use it to flag stray light, block windows, or control spill when you need a clean, dark backdrop.
How to set up a V-Flat Fabric as a collapsible background
- Attach the fabric to the frame: Stretch the fabric over the V-Flat frame, securing the corners and edges with the built-in fasteners. Ensure the fabric is taut to avoid wrinkles that show in your shot. A loose fabric creates visible creases—pull each corner snug before locking.
- Position the V-Flat behind your subject: Place the assembled V-Flat a few feet behind your subject, angled to control light spill. For a seamless look, keep the fabric parallel to the camera sensor. If the background is too close, it may catch unwanted shadows from your key light.
- Adjust the angle for bounce or absorption: Tilt the white fabric toward your subject for soft fill light, or angle the black fabric away to deepen shadows. You can also fold the two sides into a book light for even illumination. A 45-degree angle usually gives the most natural fill or contrast—test with a test shot.
- Break down and store the fabric: Remove the fabric from the frame and fold it flat. Machine wash if needed (use cold water, mild detergent, and air dry). The fabric does not warp, dent, or fade. Do not iron the fabric—wrinkles fall out naturally after re-stretching on the frame.
Product facts
- V-Flat Fabric (White): Washable Fabric: Stretchable white fabric does not warp, dent, or fade and machine washes clean, so it is always ready for the next shoot. You can keep a white background pristine without buying disposable paper rolls.
V-Flat Fabric (White) - V-Flat Fabric (Black): Shadow, Contrast, and Control: Black fabric absorbs light to deepen shadows and sculpt faces with contrast, flag stray light, block windows, and control spill. One black panel replaces multiple flags and blockers, simplifying your grip kit.
V-Flat Fabric (Black)
