What is a step and repeat? Sizes, layout and materials
What a step and repeat banner is, the most common backdrop sizes, how to space the logo pattern, fabric vs vinyl, stands, glare and reuse.
A step and repeat is a large printed backdrop covered in a repeating pattern of logos, used as the background for photos at events. The name comes from the way the logo is stepped across and repeated down the banner. The most common sizes are 8 ft tall and 8 to 10 ft wide, with larger backdrops of 8 x 12 ft and wider for big groups. This guide covers step and repeat sizes, logo layout, materials, stands, lighting and how to plan a banner you can reuse.
What a step and repeat is used for
Step and repeat banners appear at galas, fundraisers, award nights, premieres, conferences, trade shows, store openings and weddings. Guests stand in front of the backdrop to have their picture taken, and every photo carries the host's or sponsor's logos. The photos often end up on social media and in event recaps, which is why sponsors value the placement.
Common step and repeat sizes
Sizes vary by venue and group size. The ranges below are typical.
| Size (H x W) | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 8 x 8 ft | One to three people per photo, smaller rooms, photo booths |
| 8 x 10 ft | A popular all-around size for galas, parties and press walls |
| 8 x 12 ft | Small groups, wedding parties and sponsor walls |
| 8 x 16 ft to 8 x 20 ft | Large groups, red carpet arrivals and wide press lines |
| Under 8 ft tall | Low ceilings, tabletop displays and tight spaces |
Measure the space before you choose a size. Check the ceiling height, the floor area in front of the wall and any doors, outlets or exit signs that must stay clear. Leave room for the photographer to stand back several feet so the whole group fits in the frame. For other event and trade show banner formats, see our guide to banner sizes.
Logo pattern and spacing
The goal of the pattern is simple: any photo of a person or small group should show at least one complete logo. A few guidelines help.
- Use a staggered pattern. Offset each row by half a logo, like bricks in a wall. This places logos near every head and shoulder line.
- Size logos for close photos. Logos roughly 8 to 14 in wide are common. Very small logos get lost, and very large ones get cut off by the people standing in front.
- Leave space between logos. Clear space around each mark keeps the pattern readable and stops logos from crowding each other.
- Alternate two logos if needed. Many banners alternate the host logo with a sponsor or event logo. With many sponsors, keep the pattern simple so no single mark disappears.
- Use vector artwork. Supply logos as vector files so they stay sharp at full size.
Our guide to print-ready files explains file formats and color setup.
Fabric or vinyl
Step and repeat banners are usually printed on fabric or vinyl. Fabric, typically a polyester material, has a matte surface that photographs well, resists wrinkles and can be folded for storage and shipping. Vinyl is heavier and is usually rolled rather than folded. It holds up well to handling and can be wiped clean, but a glossy vinyl surface can reflect light in photos. If you choose vinyl, ask for a matte finish.
If you want a lower-impact option, ask us about our biodegradable banners when you request a quote.
Stands and hanging
Most step and repeat banners hang from a telescoping backdrop stand, which is a frame with two uprights and a crossbar. The banner attaches with pole pockets, grommets or a slip-on fabric sleeve. Tension fabric frames stretch the fabric tight and give a cleaner, wrinkle-free look. Weight the base of any stand with sandbags or stand weights, especially in busy rooms. Tell us what hardware you already have when you request a quote so the banner finishing matches it.
Lighting and glare
Glare is the most common problem with step and repeat photos. A camera flash pointed straight at a shiny surface leaves a bright hot spot behind the subject. A matte material solves most of this. It also helps to light the backdrop from the sides at an angle instead of straight on, and to keep guests a few feet in front of the banner so their shadows fall on the floor rather than on the logos.
Planning a reusable banner
A step and repeat can last for many events if you plan for it. Leave dates, years and one-time sponsors off the design and use only your core logo or a set of long-term partners. Fabric banners can usually be folded or rolled and stored in a bag between uses. Keep the banner dry and away from direct sun to protect the colors. If your sponsors change every year, a separate retractable banner beside the backdrop can carry the current list.
Ordering a step and repeat
When you request a quote, send the size, the material, your logo files, the number of logos and how they should alternate, and any hardware you plan to use. Trade show and event printing usually takes about two weeks, so tell us your event date when you request a quote. See our step and repeat banners page for options, and our events and trade show printing page for signs, badges and other pieces for the same event.
Common questions
What size is a standard step and repeat?
The most common sizes are 8 x 8 ft and 8 x 10 ft. Larger banners of 8 x 12 ft and wider are used for groups and red carpet events.
How big should the logos be on a step and repeat?
Logos roughly 8 to 14 in wide are common. The pattern should place at least one full logo in every close photo.
Is fabric or vinyl better for a step and repeat?
Fabric photographs well, resists wrinkles and folds for storage. Vinyl is durable and easy to clean, but choose a matte finish to avoid glare.
How do you stop glare on a step and repeat?
Use a matte material, light the backdrop from the sides at an angle and keep guests a few feet in front of the banner.
Can a step and repeat be reused?
Yes. Leave dates and one-time sponsors off the design, and store the banner dry and out of direct sun between events.
Products mentioned in this piece
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