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A step and repeat banner (sometimes a step and repeat wall or press wall) is a publicity backdrop used primarily for event photography, printed with a repeating pattern such that brand logos or emblems are visible in photographs or selfies of the individuals standing in front of it. Step and repeat banners are common fixtures of red carpet or fashion events.
The prototype is from the Academy Awards (Oscars) ceremony, where film stars step onto a red carpet, in front of a banner emblazoned with an image of the Oscar statuette, which is repeated with the next celebrities.[1]
Another version of the press wall is often seen in conventions and sports, where the same type of background with sponsor or team logos are utilized as the background for a press conference.
Like all design elements, a Step and repeat can be unattractive. The 2023 Emmys had a notoriously ugly Step and repeat, according to model Chrissy Teigen; a photographer agreed: "The backdrop was ugly ... I understand Fox and the Emmys want their signage, but less is more on the carpet."[2]
The step and repeat has become a phenomenon, a "flex" and "a spectacle": "the backdrop for our memories."[3]
References
edit- ^ "Oscar red carpet step-and-repeat photo backdrop brought in amid ongoing preps". ABC 7 News. February 23, 2017. Retrieved November 2, 2025.
- ^ Phillips, Zoe G. (January 17, 2024). "Criticism of 2023 Emmys "Red" Carpet Continues: Following Chrissy Teigen's Comments Teigen and others expressed disapproval of the carpet and backdrop design at the Emmy Awards on Monday night". Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved November 2, 2025.
- ^ James, Julissa (December 12, 2023). "We live to flex in front of the step-and-repeat". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved November 2, 2025.
