A backdrop is important because they create a specific visual scene behind the subject of the photo. Props are important because they add character and interest to a photo. You can make a backdrop out of many things. Two materials are: seamless paper, vinyl.
I do believe that the hardest part of an art critique is all based on opinion. Some have trouble with finding flaws, some with finding the good things. It all depends on you.
It can help others go through the 4 stages of art critism like judge, interpret, decribe and analyze. You can not do that if you have nothing to analyze about the art work
