The pole says it is for uncored paper. How hard is it to remove the core from a Savage Seamless?
Or if you have another recommendation on how to prevent the pole from spinning instead of gripping the paper as it seems from the reviews that there is a gap.
p.1 #2 · Need recommendation setting this backdrop system up
That's quite a nice backdrop system. Expensive, and larger than my studio will ever need. Do you have the space for it?
I haven't tried to remove a core, as I don't use much paper. The core helps keep the unused paper in good condition. To keep a roll from unrolling, all you need to do is pinch the paper where it's leaving the roll and the inside of the roll or core using a spring clamp at each end. The deeper into the end of the roll that you can get the clamp, the better.
I have six 10' long rollers on the ceiling that I use for my most used backdrops, and a 1 X 1 X 1/4" steel angle suspended 4" in front of the roller system, to clamp less often or smaller backdrops to with spring clamps. For portable use, I have a 8' X 10' backdrop stand (two tripods) which is adjustable in width from about 5' to 10' and collapses into a 4" diameter X 36" zipper bag. Again, I don't use much paper.
I'm sure others will be along that have more experience with this type of backdrop support system.
p.1 #3 · Need recommendation setting this backdrop system up
It looks like they're using a PoleCat type system for the vertical poles.
These secure reasonably firmly between floor and ceiling by extending to the right height and then pulling a bar which squeezes them a fraction longer with rubber feet on either end. (I use these things for lightweight lighting rigs etc).
But it is crucial to remember that if the ceiling is plasterboard, you may well end up punching a hole or putting a big dent in it if there isn't a beam exactly on the other side. Also, you will only want to use on solid, non squishy floors - so carpets and underlays aren't a great choice.
I can't imaging using a non-cored paper roll. This is how they come... on a cardboard core. It is what keeps them relatively straight - particularly when the paper is starting to run out. (Unless they're referring to an aluminium core?).
I'm wary of "convenient" things like this and prefer the security of light stands and an extendable bar, (although I appreciate that can eat up 18" of valuable floor space from the back wall in a tight space.)
p.1 #4 · Need recommendation setting this backdrop system up
Are you needing this system to be transportable from place to place? Or will it be installed in a studio situation?
I used this exact system in my studio except it was a fixed installation...bolted to the wall, not portable...and loved it. It held 3 rolls of 9' seamless and the "chain" made it extremely easy to roll the paper down/up. The rollers are designed to insert into the core of the seamless paper roll and expand to create a firm grip. Easy to remove/replace the rolls as needed. ***I say exact system...can't remember the brand name but it was NOT Impact.***
When I needed to use roll paper on location I used two sturdy stands and a cross bar to hold one roll of seamless. When using the vertical support bars, what happens when you are presented with a ceiling height that exceeds the reach of your vertical bars?
There would be NO WAY I would remove the core from a roll of seamless paper.
It is just the right size to slide inside Savage cored seamless. I use the Manfrotto EXPAN system which looks to be similar to the Imapct Varidrive inserts.
As far as keeping the cardboard core from spinning on the metal support tube, shelf liner is the bees knees. Strobepro have photos and a video on implementing this trick at the above link.
p.1 #6 · Need recommendation setting this backdrop system up
I haven't read all the replies. Core is nice but there is a problem as there is nothing to hold paper roll tight with the solid metal core. Metal core will slide inside the carboard core of the paper. People advise to put some gaffers tape on the end of the metal pole. Some suggest using shelf liner. All of that doesn't work well as then the problem comes when you need to remove the used roll of paper and put a new roll.
Also make sure your kit is metal chains, plastic breaks so easily. Personally these systems aren't designed well.
I had the mechanical eng at work suggest making a part on our fancy 3-d printer which will fit on the sides and hold paper rolls cardboard core and the solid metal core pieces together. Never got to make it and use and then covid came and no more studio at work as wfh now.
p.1 #7 · Need recommendation setting this backdrop system up
I used a set of Autopoles with extensions in a few loft spaces over the years, I simply attached Multiclamps and U hooks to hold a single 12' seamless. I never had an issue using a ladder to roll out the paper and securing with an A clamp. I went to a scrap yard and found a rigid metal tube and cut it to about 13', the paper never rippled or sagged in the center. The link to your purchase will be great for 9' rolls but I'm hesitant of not using a clamp to prevent it from rolling out.
