This is the set up I use for taking photos. Pretty plain but it gets the job done!
I use the hair so that the poster board curves to create the background. I use the cutting board because I need a flat surface. I've used the cutting board before as a background because the field to the left either had tobacco plants, rotted tobacco plants and now a dirt field. Not too pretty. :/ I use the poster so that the backgrounds are plain and the focus is on the object. I have a white one too but this black really makes the light colors pop.
As far as light, sunlight is always the best for me. Its not to bright outside so that there are no harsh shadows. Its an overcast day because its about to rain. (It rained 30 seconds after I took this so I couldn't take close ups) The rocks are to keep the poster down, its windy outside. If I can I use the chair back as a wind block. I hate it when I have the perfect shot then my animal falls over.
Well I am by no means a professional, but this set up is working pretty good. The only downside...night time!