Props for Your Portrait Session | Boston Lifestyle Photography
Different props can help you to create more dynamic portraits, here a model poses with a book and a tulip - Photo by Ryan Richardson Photography
Has society recovered from Carrot Top? The prop comic and weightlifting enthusiast laid waste to the idea of comedy, props, and prop comedy in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, wildly firing off zingers and leaving stages heaped with trash. But did props deserve to be tarnished? At Ryan Richardson Photography, we don’t think so.
Props, big or small, can be a vital part of lifestyle portrait photography. Small props can help inexperienced subjects pose comfortably (hands are tough), and add to the storytelling in an image. Certain props can also provide visual interest and help tell viewers how to navigate a photograph. Larger props can add an element of fantasy or surrealism to a shoot. So what are some easy prop ideas for your shoot?
Mirrors and Makeup - Mirrors can be a very versatile prop for creative photos, just think of all the iconic shots you’ve seen of people peering into their own reflections contemplating identity, emotions, or even just vanity. With the right arrangement of mirrors you can show two sides of your subject simultaneously (which can be a real asset in Boston boudoir photography). Makeup plays off on some of these themes. The upside of these items is that they’re very frequently already on set for a photo shoot.
Smoke and Sparklers - Smoke bombs and sparklers are popular photo props in weddings because they provide instant drama to any picture. They can be used to add atmosphere and create interesting effects (whorls of smoke as the model moves, emphasizing action, or shapes drawn out in sparklers with a long exposure). Sparklers and smoke bombs are readily available online (just make sure you’re buying from reputable sellers) but they can be hard to handle (some smoke bombs can get very hot and their dyes can stain clothing). Both are great for outdoor portraits.
Bubbles - These are a simpler alternative to smoke bombs and sparklers. Bubbles are visually appealing and are great at creating a childlike sense of whimsy and wonder. A good bubble machine can fill the air with little bits of magic, while having the subject blow bubbles can create some interesting photo opportunities. These can be great for family portrait sessions because kids of all ages like chasing bubbles.
Lights - Photography is all about light, and you can do some fun things even with just a string of LEDs. A variety of companies have started to make neon-style signs and pictures using frosted LEDs that can very directly state a message or create different environments - that seedy dive bar, a glittery casino, or maybe something more vaporwave. Lighting yourself up with holiday lights can also be a lot of fun for a boudoir shoot, letting you emphasize different shapes.
Books - You can say a lot about yourself with what you’re reading (or pretending to read). Are you a fun and playful comics nerd? Are you a sophisticated artist surrounded by coffee table books of beautiful architectural prints? Maybe there’s a theme or message you want to sneak not so subtly into your shoot. These are great for professional portraits and dating profiles (as director John Waters said "If you take somebody home and they don't have books, don't fuck 'em.").
What props would you use in your lifestyle portrait session with Ryan Richardson Photography? Why not contact me today and we’ll brainstorm some great ideas for your needs.
Ryan Richardson is a wedding and engagement photographer serving Boston and beyond; including Cape Cod Weddings, New England Weddings, Massachusetts Weddings and Rhode Island Weddings.