How to Create Photo Props

Creating your own props for photography does not have to cost a fortune.

Whether you have your own photography business or are more of a freelance photographer, the cost of purchasing photo props brand new can be a stumbling block. With a little effort, imagination, creativity and bargain-hunting, you can cut expenses and possibly gain points in originality.

Things You'll Need

• Assorted fabric
• Fabric filler, like Polyfil
• Chairs (even old ones work well)
• Wood for a swing bench
• Rope
• White sheet
• Fabric spray paint or fabric paint
• Broad paintbrush
• Repair materials (optional), like wood glue and wax furniture-patching sticks

Instructions

1. Go bargain-hunting. Whether you visit yard sales or secondhand stores, look for materials you can envision as part of a photo prop. Materials like fabric, wicker chairs, benches and draperies work well. Gently used and antique pieces of furniture work nicely as props, and if you are more adventurous or are willing to do touch-ups and minor repairs, look for fixable pieces, as well.

2. Choose a fabric with gloss, shine or shimmer to use as a V-neck drape. Choose patterns to add variety to your prop repertoire, but steer clear of outdated patterns and worn fabrics. Fabrics should not have frayed edges or hems that are not stitched down. Visit the Alternative Windows website (see Resources) for basic stitches you can do to make your fabric photo-ready.

3. Create a backdrop of your own. You do not have to be a skilled artist to do this. Plain white muslin backdrops typically cost upwards of $35, and decorated backdrops can cost $50 or more. To save money and make your own, use a plain white sheet in good condition as a backdrop, or paint one yourself using fabric spray paint. Alternatively, for a watercolor effect, spray the sheet with water and paint over with fabric paints using a broad paintbrush. Crafts stores like Michaels offer a variety of fabric-painting ideas (see Resources).

4. Use old chairs and benches for photo props. You can often find these secondhand at inexpensive prices. Beautiful results can be achieved simply by sanding and refinishing a piece of furniture. To repair minor dents and scratches where no refinishing job is needed, try using a wax furniture-patching stick. These can be purchased in various colors and are as simple to use as applying over the damaged area, wiping away the excess wax and buffing with a soft cloth.

5. Sew your own pillows by cutting two equally sized pieces of fabric and stitching them together. Pillows can be any size or shape you like. Stitch three sides (if the shape is a square or rectangle) with the outside of the fabric facing in. Flip it right-side-out, fill it with stuffing, and stitch the open end. For tips on basic stitches, view the stitches page on the Alternative Windows website (see Resources).

Resources

• Alternative Windows: Stitches
• Michaels: Fabric Painting FAQs