The Best Prop Ideas for Family Photos

You have coordinated your outfits perfectly and chosen the most stunning location. But aside from the clothing and backdrops how else can you make your family portraits more memorable and meaningful? Sometimes it is the smallest details that can make your family photo stand out from all the others and these small details tend to be the props you use in your photos. While you can use just about anything as a prop, the ones you choose for your family portrait should have meaning to your family. The right prop will not only give you something to interact with and make you feel more comfortable in front of the camera but should also share who you are as a family. When choosing the perfect prop for your family portrait session consider these suggestions. And of course, props aren’t needed or expected. In fact most of my family sessions don’t have props. But occasionally, they bring an extra level of fun especially when toddlers are involved.

1. Think about what you do together as a family.

You want you family portraits to really capture you as a family so when thinking of props just think about what you all enjoy.

2. Quilts.

Quilts that have been handed down from generation to generation or just one that has been handmade by a family member are great for photo shoots. They can be used to sit or lie on, wrap up in or display in the background.

3.Sports items or hobbies.

Does your family sit down to watch a favorite team together? Do you all play a sport together? Wearing your favorite sports team jerseys, bringing along some golf clubs and balls, footballs, bat, and gloves, can be great for family shoots. These items not only give you something to interact with but also let everyone know what you like to do as a family.

4. Holiday props.

Family portraits are great to use for cards or gifts so the holidays are the perfect time to book a photo shoot. Bringing items along that relate to the holiday season are great. Whether it’s tinsel or tree ornaments, or scarves and gloves, the holidays offer a number of fun and unique props to use during your family photo shoot.

5. Something for the kids.

Balloons, bubbles, finger paints, ribbons or simply their favorite stuffed animal. Having a variety of items for the kids to play with not only keep them occupied and more cooperative but will also help capture their genuine joy.

6. Make an announcement. 

Announcement a new pregnancy. A move. A job. A graduation. Anything or anything that you’re celebrating and maybe even the reason behind the shoot, then use those images to make the announcement online or even send some cards to family and friends.

If you found these Best Prop Ideas for Family Photos helpful, you might also find these posts helpful:
Six Steps for Taking Better Family Portraits Yourself
Top 8 Tips for Making Photos with Kids Easier
How to Find the Perfect Photo Shoot Location

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