Hey hey! It's me, once again!
I mentioned on Wednesday that I would put up another "photo session advice" post. I felt like "Pull Out The Props" was a perfect topic for this week, due to Easter being the next big holiday and Graduation season coming to a close pretty soon as well.
Props can make a photo session stand out from all the others just a bit more. I absolutely love when clients bring props, because it allows me to capture their personalities and hobbies in the photos. I've had a wide range of props brought to photo shoots ranging from musical instruments to paint brushes to skateboards. These items make the pictures scream personality and clients tend to gravitate towards the pictures with props due to the originality that they bring. So, are you ready to look at the kinds of props that work great at photo shoots? Let's go!!!
1. School is Cool!
Although at times school is the last thing that people want to think about when they are headed to a photo shoot, props from school can make your pictures look unique and stand out. School props such as medals, school sweatshirts, team uniforms, and even books can add to the photo shoot. For senior photos, bringing a cap and gown can also add to the session. In the picture below, she has a school pin.

2. Words of Expression.
Bringing a sign to your photo shoot is also a great idea. For most of the sessions that I do, I provide different signs with quotes on them for my clients. However, if you have something specific that you would like, such as a babies name or quote, bringing those to a photo shoot will make great pictures. Any sort of written props, such as signs, large letters, and canvases are a great way to express yourself in your photos.
3. Take a Seat!
Now, this is often something that photographers have with them or in their studios and you can ask for it. However, the client is always welcome to bring any props that they would like and chairs are a great prop to bring. Often times, the ground is not "dirt" free enough to sit down on and having a chair not only adds character to the photos, but also keeps your outfit clean.
4. Keeping The Focus.
For babies and young children, it can often be hard to keep their focus. Props, for them, can also be difficult depending on the age of the child. What I have found to be best for children are large stuffed animals that you can prop up next to them, any sort of wooden crates or baskets add some height to the pictures, and live animals and characters (such as Santa or the Easter Bunny) are great as well.
5. Glitters and Paints.
Glitter and chalk paint, as well as regular paints can be a really fun prop to bring. Keep in mind, however, that both of these can get a bit messy at times and may mess up your clothing or the ground. Be sure to do this in a place where it can be easily cleaned and that the outfit you have on at this time is not your favorite. These two props make great pictures!

6. Play Some Music
Instruments are always a great prop to bring to photo shoots. They allow your hobbies, careers, and dreams to flow into the pictures. Any instrument is welcomed! However, the instruments that are easily transported are better for photo sessions, especially if they are outside.
7. Frame it Up.
This is another great prop idea! Frames add a really pretty element to the photos. Again, this is something that photographers may have and clients can ask for them, however, if you had one that you absolutely love don't be afraid to bring it.
As you can see from the pictures that I added to each section, props add just enough of a "pop" to each picture. They make them unique and can add depth and personality to the photos. I hope this post helped you understand why props can be great in a photo. I also hope it made your life easier if you were struggling to figure out which props to bring.
Until next time!
Talia
Comments