Everything You Need to Know About Using Props In Your Photos!

More and more photographers are using props in their photos these days. And not just in studios either! I remember as a little girl going to get family photos taken and always hoping they would give us something fun to pose with. Now it almost feels wrong taking pictures without props! Just something to add a little personality to your photos and to make them unique to you. In this blog post I am going to share what makes a good prop choice and if you even need props in the first place!

Good Prop Ideas

So you’re probably wondering what items are good to use as props? Well anything could be a prop really. It just depends on what vibe you’re going for with your photoshoot. What’s the theme of your photoshoot? That's the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing props. Like if you're going to do a Valentine's Day themed photoshoot, you want to stick with items that reflect that. So stick with things like red balloons, heart banners, maybe rose petals depending on your location. Stay away from things that would take away from that because it will stick out like a sore thumb.

Here are some other ideas for great props to use in your photos:

• Letter boards

• Balloons (especially mylar balloons!)

• Blankets

• Pillows

• Signs (like the ones from Homegoods)

• Candle

• Banners

• Your Pet

• Items related to your favorite hobbies

• Chairs & Tables

Depending on what you use as a prop will depend on how you pose with it. But there are a lot of different ways to pose with your props. Ask your photographer for tips on what would be best for your photoshoot if you need help coming up with ideas!

Are Props Necessary?

By now you are probably asking if going through the trouble of trying to find the right prop is even worth it?! Well that just comes down to your own personal preference. Some people don't like using props and that’s fine! Heck, some photographers don't even allow props in their photoshoots! So it really all comes down to what you think will look good and what won’t. This is one of those topics that there really isn’t a right or wrong answer to. Props can be used as a fun way to add some personality to your photos, but some people think they can take away from the people in them. So when it comes time to get your photos taken, take the time to ask your photographer what you should use if you haven't come up with any ideas yourself. They may have some props available for use or can give you some ideas of things you may already have around your house! Props are not something you have to go out and buy.

I have put together a checklist of prop ideas for you, you can snag one here. Thanks for checking out today’s blog post! Have a great one!