What is a Step and Repeat?
What is a Step and Repeat?
If you've ever watched an award show, you might have found yourself wondering something: what is the backdrop on a red carpet called? From paparazzi shots to on-the-spot interviews, the banner behind the subjects serves as an aesthetic background with effective built-in advertising. Here's everything you need to know about these great marketing tools.
The Basics of Step and Repeat Banners
A step and repeat is the official term for a tall, wide backdrop that features the logo of a particular company. They're often a feature of award shows where celebrities step up and pose for pictures, while reporters will typically conduct interviews in front of them as well. Because these events are usually broadcast on television, special considerations are made to ensure that the backdrop reads well on TV screens.
Not only do these banners provide a good canvas that complements those standing in front of them, but they also provide a golden opportunity for businesses to spread their image and create an awareness of their brand. It's one of the best weapons in a marketing team's arsenal because it offers a subtle medium of advertising that has the potential to be really effective.
What are the Best Uses for a Step and Repeat Banner?
Although award shows are the most well-known application of this type of backdrop, there are many other worthwhile uses. Step and repeats have become popular options for weddings, birthdays, baby showers, or any type of event where a photo op is appropriate. As a business owner, you can maximize your promotion by toting along a step and repeat banner to a number of locations:
- Promotional events
- Sponsorship events
- Trade shows
- Conferences
- Seminars
- Networking events
- Marketing programs
If you suspect there will be photographers, or you plan on taking some quality shots for your social media accounts, it's a good idea to have a backdrop that does some of the promotional work for you. Even if you don't use it as a background for pictures, this over-sized banner can serve as a way of framing your booth at any type of event. You're able to capture visitors from several feet away and draw them in to hear your message.
What Size Photo Backdrop Banner is Most Effective?
Traditionally, a step and repeat backdrop measures 8 feet tall. This is a sufficient height to ensure that even the tallest subject fits within the background. When pictures are taken, you don't want anyone's heads to eclipse the top of the banner.
When it comes to length, this can vary. Think about how many people you expect to photograph at one time. For just a few people, 8 feet should be sufficient, but you may want to go up to 10 if you think you'll have large groups that you want to capture in a picture. When you're thinking about the dimensions in regard to photography, remember that you want it to be large enough that the subjects of your pictures don't cover the backdrop entirely. Otherwise, your logo won't even be seen.
If you're using your step and repeat as a basic background for a trade show booth, you may want to consider the size of your table when creating your design. Having the banner extend the entire length of your area can offer a more professional look.
How Can My Logo Best be Presented?
The logo is the key component of the step and repeat, so it's important to be thoughtful about how you present it. There are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Size
- Placement
- Color contrast
The size of your logo affects how readable it is in videos and photographs. You want it to be small enough that the entire image is seen in the frame but large enough that the details aren't lost in translation.
There are a couple of different configurations when it comes to placing your logo on the banner. Because it's going to be repeated several times, you may opt for straight or diagonal rows. Sometimes the shape of your logo helps you determine which one is best.
Don't forget to think about the color you choose for the backdrop versus the color scheme of the logo itself. A high degree of contrast will ensure the logo pops but be careful if using vinyl. This material may have more glares in non-white tones; fabric banners have more flexibility with color.
Are Step and Repeat Banners Easy To Transport?
Installation is a breeze with one of these banners, so you don't have to worry about a lengthy setup time when you take them to events. Most models break down completely, allowing you to tote them in a carrying case. Not only does this make it easier to take the sign from point A to point B, but it takes up little storage space so that you can stow it away for next time.
Now that you've learned all there is to know about step and repeat backdrops, you can take advantage of all the benefits that they offer. With the right size and design, you can put yours to good use and let your logo stand out from the background.
