To go hand-in-hand with my last “tips and tricks” blog… props. Or lack thereof. Props can be beautiful and classic, but can also be WAY overused. My goal is to make sure they are used in a beautiful and purposeful way. They should not be a place-filler or distraction. Many photographers use a lot of props in their work to help their images because they are not as skilled in the technical or artistic aspects of photography. Over-use of props is an easy way to tell a good photographer from a window-dresser.
Props
I briefly touched on using a prop in the Trendy Vs Timeless blog that I put out last week, and I just want to dive a little deeper into that. Props can have a time and place when done correctly. When I am meeting with clients, and we are chatting about this, I like to spin the idea of what a “prop” is. In my work, I use accessories and textured backgrounds to add to the image. Instead of stacking stuff around the subject, I add something to enhance the subject. The main focus of the shoot is the person, and it needs to stay that way.
No Props
As a general “blanket statement,” I typically discourage the use of props. I strive to create a crisp, modern and timeless look. The integrity of that is sacrificed when heavy distractions are added. As I mentioned, the person should be the main focus.
Call Me
With all of that being said, I also aim to please you. If there is something that you absolutely have to have in a shoot – we will utilize it in the most beautiful way. Walking that line between props that enhance, and something that is a distraction is a fine line. And I want you to look at your photos in 30 years and be just as obsessed with them as you were the first time you saw them. Please call or text me at 214.864.5787 or use my online contact form and I’ll get back to you quickly, usually within one day. I look forward to speaking with you.
