Whether you are a prop junkie or just looking to freshen up some of your traditional portrait poses, these objects will add variety to any family photo session. In fact, I don’t know how I lived without #2 for so long!
(1) A Great Crate!
Crates can add texture, color, and interest to your family portraits and they also providing seating. They give kids something on which to climb, jump, and flop. It can add layers of height and breakup otherwise common poses. Indoors or out, it’s indispensable. Plus, it can hold all your other stuff in it.
(2) A Beautiful Blanket
Believe it or not, I didn’t add a blanket to my prop collection for seven years. I just didn’t see the need, until I did. Now I can’t live without it. It can add color, texture, and indicate a theme or time of year to your images. I love using an heirloom piece that adds meaning to your family portraits. It’s also very versatile. Use it as a tent, a wrap, or a cape. This beauty can be found at Bed, Bath, and Beyond.
(3) A Book.
Reading and childhood go hand in hand. So, for me, no photo session should be without a book. I love the look of surprise when a child reads a book. They experience so many emotions at once. I love how reading together reveals the caring nature of parenthood. I love that reading together slows everything down for just a few minutes as you savor words and ideas and then talk about the characters and their feelings. I love books for everything they make us feel and then capturing all that feeling on camera. A book is a MUST. A stack of books is even better. Kids with books are just pure magic.
A list of photography props could include: kites, costumes, wands, cloaks, capes, cakes, tea sets, stuffed friends, swords, lightsabers, treasure maps, pixie dust, goggles, hats, helmets, bikes, wagons, spacesuits, and so much more. I’ve even been adding a lot of fresh flowers to my sessions lately. But, if I had to pick three must-have photography props, those “do not leave home without these three props” items, then a crate, a blanket, and a book make my list!
THANKS FOR LOOKING! 🙂
