Set the Scene ― Use Props to Create Memorable Portrait Photography

No one likes to admit it, but photographers often reach a plateau where they feel they have reached their creative limit. ?Sometimes,” writes author Tracy Dorr, ?it can begin to feel like you are just going through the motions, not particularly engaged in what you are doing. While the quality of your work is still very good, you are not particularly inspired by your product.” For readers who find themselves in the monotonous position of shooting multiple similar sessions/clients every day, a new perspective might just be in order. According to the author, ?We need to refresh our minds and substitute stale poses and overused locations with fresh, new accessories and ideas in our photo shoots. In short, it’s time to embrace shooting with props.” Adding props allows the photographer to offer images that are truly unique and fully customized to the individual client. This can translate into additional income, since clients almost always respond favorably to the prestige of a one-of-a-kind product. Best of all, props can be added to your images at almost no additional cost. As Dorr explains, second-hand, borrowed, do-it-yourself, and found props can be just as effective as high-end specialty options.

Tracy Dorr is the author of two books - Advanced Wedding Photojournalism: Professional Techniques for Digital Photographers and Engagement Portraiture: Master Techniques for Digital Photographers (both from Amherst Media). She holds a BA in English/Photography from the State University of New York at Buffalo and has been shooting professionally since 2003. She won three Awards of Excellence from Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) and was a Master Class teacher at the WPPI convention in Las Vegas. Her work has been published in numerous local wedding publications. Tracy has also been a contributor to four books in the 500 Poses series by Michelle Perkins, on the subjects of brides, men, couples and groups (Amherst Media). She lives in Williamsville, NY with her husband Bill and their daughter. TracyDorrPhotography.com