A black backdrop is a different look. Check out Eben Pagan – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnu7JHJ4Kag (not an endorsement). He uses a black paper back drop and shines a light on the backdrop directly behind him to separate him from the background. If there are lights on you, some will spill onto the backdrop. So there will still be shadows. You can get rid of many of the shadows by increasing the distance between you and the background, the angle of the lights or lighting the backdrop. Good question!

I use cup hooks in the drywall up high on the wall and the black cloth has grommets in it. You can also use thumb tacks. You will just want it taut so you can have a uniform “black-drop” behind you. If you have no creases or waves you will increase your production value tremendously.