Props: A Go-to guide

Whether you’re preparing for an engagement session, portrait session or elopement the right props can transform your photos into something truly special.

Engagement/Elopement

Photo Shoot Props:

1. Wine and Wine Glasses Toasting with a bottle of wine can add a celebratory touch to your shoot. The glasses can also be used creatively in poses, adding elegance to your images.

2. Lantern A lantern can introduce a whimsical element, especially for evening shoots. It can create beautiful lighting and a cozy ambiance. HERE

3. Bouquet A bouquet of flowers can symbolize love and beauty, adding color and texture to your photos. It’s a classic prop that never goes out of style. HERE or HERE or HERE are some of my favorite floral options!

4 Cake with Wedding Date This personalized touch is a creative photo prop to include in your wedding invitations! HERE or Ramones are great options!

5. Newspaper with Wedding Date THIS is a super cute idea for wedding date announcement! (LINK)

6. Cathedral veil. Incredible photos can be taken with a cathedral veil.

7. His/Her Vow Books. HERE

8. Ring box HERE

9. Picnic Basket A charming picnic basket filled with your favorite snacks can create a relaxed, romantic atmosphere. It invites candid moments and playful interactions, making for beautiful, authentic shots.

10. Blanket A cozy blanket can serve as a lovely backdrop for seated poses or be spread out for a picnic scene. It adds warmth and comfort to your photos.

11. Charcuterie Board A beautifully arranged charcuterie board with grapes, cheeses, and crackers not only looks delicious but also encourages fun, interactive moments between you and your partner. HERE

12. Hair Bow A simple accessory like a bow can add a playful and romantic flair to your look, enhancing your overall style. HERE

Joyfolie and Baltic Born (linked) are good places to purchase wedding styled dresses without the major price tag. Wearing formal photos for a photo shoot NEVER disappoints!

Portrait Props:

1. **Instrument** If you play an instrument, bringing it along can showcase your passion and personality. Whether it’s a guitar, violin, or any other instrument, it adds a unique touch to your portraits.

2. **Book** A favorite book can reveal your interests and spark conversation. Posing with a book can create a relaxed and thoughtful vibe, perfect for capturing your personality.

3. **Bouquet** Just like in engagement shoots, a bouquet can enhance portraits. It adds color and can be a beautiful accessory, whether you’re holding it or it’s placed nearby.

4. **Hobby Items** Whether it’s art supplies, sports equipment, or gardening tools, bringing items that reflect your hobbies can make your portraits more personal and meaningful.

5. **Blanket or Throw** A cozy blanket can add texture and warmth to your portraits. It can be used as a prop for sitting or wrapped around you for a snug, inviting look.

6. **Personalized Sign** A sign with your name or a favorite quote can add a unique touch to your portraits. It can also serve as a fun focal point in your images.

7. **Flower Crown** This is one of my FAVORITE props. Plus, you get to support your local florist too! Or purchase one on Etsy HERE.

Added ideas: sunglasses, balloons, bubbles, graduation robe, sun hat, shawl, favorite sneakers, umbrella, cloak, western hat, hair bow, lantern, pet, pizza, cotton candy, big lolly pop, hand held mirror…

THEMES can be easily incorporated to personalize your upcoming photoshoot.

Go VINTAGE! Grab an antique looking bike with a cute basket attached. Fill the basket with flowers. Bring along an old camera or sterio. Top it off with a picnic! Plan the shoot on a lonely rode and ride your bike in the street and end it on the senoma dunes with a second change of outfit! Wear a bandana or bow in your hair! Check out ideas HERE.

Picnic. What can be sweeter? Put a bow in your hair, grab a cute bouquet, wine and glasses, pillows, cute picnic basket, and an old vintage camera. Check out my Pinterest board for more inspo HERE.

Book store. Awe, this would be adorable. Take your photographer to the hear of your town and find a good used book store. Spend some time walking down in old town in outfit number two! HERE’s some inspo!

Laundry Mat. YES, please! CUTE! Jeans, white shirts, bandana in hair, old newspaper (save the date!), and colorful converse! Check out ideas HERE

Restaurant. In and out date? How fun would that be! Order some food and share a burger! Sit by the window and I’ll get creative shots! Have another cute restaurant in mind? Let’s do it! HERE are some ideas!

Vintage car and a sunset. Borrow a friend’s fancy old car and let’s make some incredible memories! Order a pizza and share a couple slices together! Go classy and wear a cocktail dress and high heals! HERE’s some photos for inspo!