Photography props can be anything that tells a visual story.
One of the most important tools for a successful photography business is props. Props include posing furniture, backgrounds and toys or other equipment used to theme a pose or portrait. Outfitting an entire studio with props can become expensive; many just-starting photographers choose to use handmade props or items that can be purchased at yard sales or secondhand stores. Many items in good repair should photograph well and make excellent props. Props are often unique and quite beautiful in portraits, but certain factors must be considered before using them.
Safety
The first concern of any parent is going to be safety. They won't want their children being posed using toys or furniture that is in any way unsafe. Furniture should be child sized, and the child needs to be able to put both feet safely on the floor or posing table. Toys used should be free of small choking hazards and should be laundered and disinfected frequently. Backgrounds and backdrops should be hung securely and in no danger of falling on the child.
Repair and Condition
Parents are not going to want to pose their children on furniture or props that are dirty or broken. Ensure that your props are cleaned regularly and repaired promptly. Make certain that child-size furniture is not broken in any way. Stuffed animals should be clean and rip-free. Dingy or worn props that can be painted should be painted at least once a year, more if needed.
Appropriateness and Usage
Props should be appropriate to the type of photo session or the type of photography studio you run. Children's photographers should have props that a child would use such as toys, books, riding toys or rocking horses. Space in most studios is extremely limited, and props will take up a majority of storage space. Ensure each prop is one that will be used frequently.
Variety
Photographers should have a variety of props, and homemade props mean that more options will be available. Keep props in a wide array of colors. Ensure you have different types of props for children with different interests. Have props for all age ranges of children and families and have props for both genders and for gender neutral photos. Look for themed items such as Santa Claus or the Easter bunny for specialty portraits or for portable arbors for engagement portraits. Garden pedestals or columns are also common prop items that can be pricey from photography stock companies. All of these types of items can be found secondhand and repurposed as homemade props.
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