Before installing a new layout, put up a backdrop.

[Andrew Falconer]

There are numerous photos and videos of O gauge layouts on-line.

What is distracting in these videos is that there is no Backdrop installed first, so that the viewer can concentrate on the trains running over the track layout.

Even a scenery divider backdrop along the center of the layout would improve the photos and videos.

 

[wallyworld]

I think adding a backdrop and it's effectiveness depends on how well it is blended in perspective to other scenic elements, and if it is done poorly, it looks out of place. I think this is a case like everything else in the hobby of subjectivity and when I created my own layout, photographing it for others was not a high priority. I think ( speaking for myself ) that when viewing other layouts, I don't find the lack of a backdrop detracting from my enjoyment of what I see or creating a loss of focus. Some look one dimensional, some give the appearance of more space but ultimately I think it's an adjunct to a layout rather than the meat and potatoes of track placement, type of layout, etc. It can either add or detract, The ones I don't care for are the ones placed as a divider set up smack dab in the middle of a layout..Why? I have no idea why..its one of the mysteries of taste.

[Rob412]

While a nice backdrop can enhance any layout I don't think it's a necessity for a video. I subscribe to several people who have no backdrop at all and I never felt that it was a distraction. I actually will focus in on the basement as it gives ideas for storage and how other people get around the obstacles we all face like water heaters, stairs, windows, etc. I also feel it shows the layout in its surroundings which I like as a magazine or video of a layout rarely shows this but IMO can make it more personable ( like being in their basement). Most layouts on you tube are far from finished and I like to share in others progress and see new trains and different techniques. After all it's just for fun.

[Andrew Falconer]

In the photos and videos without the backdrop there is more garage and automobile or basement showing than the model railroad. 

 

A movable curtain background hung on a pole would focus the camera operator and the viewer's attention.

[gvdobler]

I agree. Even a white sheet looks better than the garage door or water heater as a back drop. If you are photo'ing the layout, you are doing so for showing it off, or to remember it down the road.

Why not take a few minutes and give it some help.

Jon

[traindaddy1]

I would kind-of agree with both sides. If I were presenting a professional type video or photos, I woud certainly attempt to "stage" it. On the other hand, when I go to someone's house or they visit me,  the "Classic Toy" layout is right there amidst the "everythings" of normal living. Why not? As far as garage or basement stuff...I often take back ideas and sometimes solutions to our mutual problems like storage or lighting. Can't say that the lack of a backdrop has ever distracted me but maybe the cat jumping on the layout or junior pulling my pants leg for attention.

[IDM1991]

When shooting a few still pictures and making some short video clips of our family's under-the-Christmas Tree layout last month, I used an empty gift bag to hide a power bar and related wires leading from the tree into a wall socket, or from feeder Lockons to the track.  It worked rather effectively.