How to Choose Photography Props

Selecting photography props can be fun. Think about who or what you’ll be photographing, and make a list of prop ideas. When choosing photography props, you will want to make sure you select appropriate, durable props that will last for several sessions. Always keep in mind how the photography props will look on the backdrops that you use, and what types of clients will be using the props.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time to shop

1. Choose strong items for photography props. Test prop benches, seats, stools and chair for strength. Even if it is designed for a child, it may be used by several children at once. Can the photography prop handle extra weight? Make sure these types of props are sturdy, don’t wobble on a flat surface and are reinforced.

2. Coordinate the colors of your props with your backdrops. Make a list of backdrops that you use before shopping for photography props. Choose colors to complement your backdrops. Neutral colors are a good option, because they will match several backdrops. Use painters color pallets to coordinate colors successfully.

3. Select age appropriate props. When shopping for children’s props, look for smaller chairs and child-sized tables. Browse the children’s section at a furniture store for smaller versions of adult furniture. When choosing props for an infant, think of baby blankets and baskets. For adults, full sized chairs and ottomans are best.

4. Pick a variety of seasonal photography props. Select photography props that will enhance photos taken at the holidays. Santa hats, a string of old fashioned bulbs and even ornaments can make great props for children during the holiday season. Choose plastic eggs for Easter and bright colored flowers for spring portraits.

5. Choose timeless photography props. Avoid logos, themes or popular children’s characters. These will become outdated quickly. Neutral solid colored props are the best option for timeless photographs. Thick shaggy rugs, pillows, furniture, single stem flowers and strings of beads are also good options.

6. Look at photography magazines and browse the internet for prop ideas. Choose photography props that you see used in photographs that you admire. Get ideas by looking at the work of other photographers in magazines, newspapers and even children’s books.

Tips & Warnings

• Many unlikely items can be used for photography props. Try using an old metal washtub for children, or an oversized cowboy boot when photographing a new puppy.
• Never use photography props with peeling paint. Children may accidentally ingest the paint chips and get sick.