Hang Easy: TogDrop Mounting System Review
A modular system that helps you easily mount and switch backdrops and create clean backdrop corners
• June 2024 issue
If you’ve ever been frustrated with the effort it takes to hang and switch backdrops in your studio, then you should learn more about TogDrop. Designed as a backdrop mounting solution for photographers, TogDrop has components that allow you to hang backdrops and lights on the wall or using your stands or poles. You can even create neat, non-wrinkled backdrop room corners.
TogDrop is a modular system with interchangeable parts that you can configure for your specific space, such as magnetic wall mounts, and mounts for autopoles and light stands. Photographers who use TogDrop have said they like the autopole system because you can use it on an autopole or a light stand, or even on a pipe and drape system. Each element of the components’ design serves a purpose, from securely holding poles to making it easier to lift and reposition on a wall. One of the system’s main benefits is its flexibility. With TogDrop, photographers can use their existing studio equipment and choose the mount that works best for them.
The magnetic mount configuration pictured here can hold three poles and features a light mount. The photo at the top of the article shows the light stand configuration is set up to create a 90-degree corner using poles.
Each segment of the mounting system, regardless of type, is designed with safety in mind. Safety knobs and other design mechanisms prevent the components from accidentally separating during use. The components have been load tested, and maximum weight recommendations are noted so you can compare weight specs from manufacturers before mounting. For example, TogDrop tested a 20- to 30-pound capacity for one component, which is more than enough to hold an 8x15-foot canvas that weighs an average of 11 pounds or perhaps a monolight that weighs 5 to 7 pounds.
TogDrop has video demonstrations of the mounting system options on its website. I found the metal wall mounting system the most intriguing. You would need to mount metal sheets or strips (28 gauge or thicker) on your wall, and then the mount could be placed anywhere. The mount can hold backdrops or lights, or both, depending on the components you use. I think this setup would be invaluable for studios with limited floor space. Just hang a couple of backdrops with the TogDrop system, then add a hair or rim light aimed down over the backdrop.
To remove one of the magnetic mounts, place a finger behind one of the curved extensions on the bottom and lift the middle lever to release the magnetic hold.
The base unit of the light stand mount fits over the stand, and you can add whatever attachments you need.
Another unique offering of the TogDrop system is the ability to create corners. Anyone who has created a Santa set or other themed mini-session knows the difficulty of getting two backdrops to hang efficiently at right angles. TogDrop was developed to solve this problem, whether you’re creating a free-standing set or using a wall as a backdrop. TogDrop’s corner kits are sold for use with autopoles, metal walls, and light stands. The kits are designed to hold up to three backdrops plus a mounted light. The component that secures the 90-degree-angle backdrop is adjustable to a full 360 degrees, so you can create whatever corner angle you desire.
TogDrop offers parts for sale individually or as systems. Most modular parts are $29 and used with the TogDrop systems. The single drop systems range from $79 to $269, and the corner systems range from $269 to $399. To learn more about TogDrop or watch videos on how to use the different components in your studio, visit togdrop.com.
Betsy Finn is a portrait artist in Dexter, Michigan.
