Choosing the Right Props for Your Next Photo Session
{Recommendations from a prop lover/hoarder….aka ME, Melissa Gregersen of Gregersen Photography}
Have you ever thought about adding props to your photo sessions? Props can add interest, depth and an extra flair to your pictures. Get your children to hold coordinating flowers for a spring or summer shoot. Love sports? Then use baseball bats in your next family photo to bring out your passion. Here are a few tips for ways to incorporate props in your next photo session.
Avoid trends. While you might have recently seen a few photos that incorporate a specific prop, try not to use something that will not look really dated in 20 years’ time. Classic is definitely better and there are many fun options to choose from.
Here is a great example of a mix of trends and classic…..super cute trendy knitted hats and “kalamazoo” t-shirts…and coordinate it with a classic radio flyer wagon…..LOVE this image and I know their mom did too!
Be realistic. It’s easy to go wild when thinking of a theme for your photo session. You should decide on one that you can actually find props for. For example, if you want to use seasonal props, try and source them in that season as they’ll be easier to find and before you decide to remake your favorite movie scene, think twice about whether you’ll be able to find suitable outfits for everyone in the photo.
Here is a great example of a theme….my client wanted a Snow White inspired theme….so without going to over the top, we added some elements and colors so everyone knows what theme this is….without having to “scream it”. 😉
Another great example but totally different approach…..Rainbow Babies. Photographing miracle babies born after the loss of a baby by miscarriage or stillborn birth….a rainbow is the symbol used for these sessions and we love to get creative with them to honor the angel baby. 💕
Size matters. There are some larger props that work really well in photo sessions such as using your grandpa’s farm tractor as a background piece. However, there are some larger props that can take away from the beauty of the photograph altogether. Make sure that your prop enhances the photo and doesn’t detract from it.
Like this beautiful Senior session with her beloved horse.
Make it meaningful. If your child has a favorite stuffed animal or if you have a musical instrument that you treasure, try and incorporate it into your photos. This way your pictures will have more meaning to you and your family.
Use what you have. Make the current season work to your advantage by using what’s available. Leaves in the fall make for amazing props in photos and don’t cost a thing. Like a sunflower field!!
Remember, using props can be the perfect addition to your photos but make sure that they don’t become the main focus…we always want the focus on children, babies or the family being photographed.
