Easy Prop Ideas for Your Next Photoshoot
There are two kinds of people in this world: people who are a real natural in front of the camera and those who are not. I’ll be honest, I used to be the latter. But these days, I often get asked how to pose in photos and honestly, after years of photoshoots, it has become second nature at this point. My number one tip is to always keep moving throughout the shoot. However, I’ve also found that using props helps me feel less awkward and gives my hands some purpose.
Sometimes I will pose for a photo but have no clue what to do with my dang limbs! Insert the prop. Props can be cheesy, but I’ve found a couple that can be naturally worked into an image. My tried-and-trued favorites are listed below and I’ve added in a few pictures of these examples. Hope this will help a little bit for your next photoshoot! Most of all, don’t forget to have fun!
Flowers
Flowers have, in the past, been my go-to prop, especially in the spring. I love wrapping mine up in brown paper (like they were just purchased from the farmers market!) or adding them in my bag for a pretty accent.
Cameras
I know it seems to be a bit goofy to be holding a camera while getting your photo taken, but this has proven to be one of my favorite and most unique props, especially if you have a cool looking vintage camera like a polaroid or film camera.
Food
Looking for a fun vibe in your photos? Add food! This is my favorite prop for obvious reasons! Throw it up in the air, make a funny face, and eat it all. It’s impossible not to laugh during these photos which means you’ll have the perfect all-natural shot.
Newspaper
I always have an old newspaper on hand during my photoshoots. It’s a simple prop that can change an entire photo. This is also a good prop for announcement type photos, where you can caption your post “breaking news” or “hot off the press”.
A Cup of Coffee
Last year, I purchased a reusable Starbucks coffee cup (seen below) and it has been one of my best investments yet! This is another prop I always try to have on hand during photoshoots because it makes what would be a basic picture of me standing in the street, just a little more different than the rest. Purchase your own reusable cup here!
Mugs are also great for morning/breakfast shots or travel-related pictures.
Hats
Hats may not seem like a prop, but they give your hands something to do, whether you’re holding it with one hand or throwing it up in the air.
Books
We all have a coffee table book or two and these totally come in handy for photos! Find a book that’s color matches your outfit or stack up your entire collection.
Bags
Last but not least, the easiest of them all. When in doubt, grab a bag and swing it around. This will feel so natural and, of course, complete your cute look.
Check out more of my favorite random props below!
Morgan Klein says
This post is amazing! I am always trying to think of what props I can add to my pictures. So many good ideas here. Thanks for sharing!!
Mollie says
Omg you are the prop queen!! Flowers and coffee are definitely my go-to’s, but I think its time to expand! I need to try using some new ones!
xx Mollie
Laura Leigh says
Okay HI I love this post! You’re inspiring me to change up my props. I’ve been using books a little too often lately haha. Need to spice it up! And omg I miss our trip to the beach and those amazing cupcakes!
http://louellareese.com
Lizzie says
What a fun post! I love all of your props! My favorite props are accessories, flowers and all of my vintage things (especially for product shots!).
Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
Rach says
This post is so helpful Hillary! I’m running out of ideas for my photos and this props list is inspiring me!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
rebecca says
okay i definitely needed this post!! especially for creating at home. I have been running out of ideas! thanks for sharing, gf.
xx rebecca // thecrystalpress.com/blog
Morgan says
The QUEEN of dresses, props, and cuteness factor!!
-Morgan
the HER chronicles [] http://theherchronicles.com
Stephanie says
Props = the blogger’s best friend. I mean, really! They make photos so much more interesting. I find myself floundering and doing the same 4 poses when I’m prop-less haha. I usually reach for bags/coffee/books! These are awesome inspiration photos too. You’re so creative!
Kileen says
These prop ideas are so cute and so perfect!! I’ve always loved the vintage camera use in my pictures as well!!
Kileen
cute & little
Sarah Lindner says
Love all the photos…all so cheerful and playful. Simple props with big impact, I love it! xoxo, Sarah
Dana Mannarino says
You’re literally the prop QUEEN! So freakin’ creative, ALWAYS!
Dana | The Champagne Edit
Mercy says
Love your photos from the outfits to the props and backdrops!
http://www.busyandfab.com
Anna English says
Such a cute post! Flowers and drinks are always my go-to prop of choice!
Kaitlyn says
YOU’RE KILLING IT WITH THE PROPS! YOUR PICTURES ARE BEAUTIFUL!! THANKS FOR THE PROP SUGGESTIONS.
Kaitlyn @ Oh, the Places We’ll Go!