In the world of e-commerce and visual marketing, product photography plays a crucial role in capturing the attention of potential customers. The images captured should tell the story of the product, and inspire the viewers to use it. One of the best ways to transform mundane shots into compelling visual narratives is by using props. Props are best used to create a sense of scale, highlight certain features of the product and add a context or background to the image. If you’re searching for the best photography props for product shoots, you’re at the right place.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what props you can use that align with the trends of 2023, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Reasons to use product photograph props
Props are physical items used in your pictures that help to create a scene, evoke emotions, support a concept or message, and overall enhance the aesthetic purpose of the image.
Here are the following ways in which props can enhance the product image:
- Makes the product look more interesting:
Gone are the days when dull white backgrounds were the only options for capturing product photography. With experimentation and room for creativity, adding props can add a great aesthetic appeal to the photograph and contextualize your images.
- Shows scale:
Photographing products includes showing the product in a way that accurately shows the scale to educate the buyers on the size and shape of the product. Adding a prop is the perfect way to show the scale of the image.
- Evoke emotions in the customers:
Props can convey an idea. Photographs through props can plant an idea in the consumer’s mind of how the product is used, what it will look like in a certain setting, and more importantly, how the prospective buyer will feel after taking the product.
Best photography props for product shoots
- Backdrops
A good backdrop has the power to make your product look professional and realistic. They are natural props that blend seamlessly with the background, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the image.
You can easily create your own backdrop by checking out some DIY product photography props. Make your own backdrop with fabric, paper, linoleum, or even tile. You can use textures and fabrics to layer textiles like rugs, cushions, or blankets, which can add warmth and depth to your composition or simply use stationery for office or study-related products; consider including notebooks, pens, and stationery items.
Never be afraid to work with unexpected, surprising elements like jeans fabric.
- Lifestyle props
Lifestyle props add context to an image. They create a scene that resonates with your target audience and helps them visualize what the product would look like in a real setting.
Some of the most commonly used lifestyle props are books, reading glasses, travel essentials, mugs, candles, pillows, blankets, home decor, dishware, knick-knacks, and so on.
The main aim of lifestyle photography, and therefore lifestyle props, is to showcase products in an artistic manner while also capturing natural settings.
- Decorative Props
Decorative props are being used depending on the client you’re working with and the product being photographed. The main aim of the decorative props is to add a touch of elegance and aesthetic appeal to your product shots. Along with the best backgrounds for product photography, decorative props are an elegant way to create a visually pleasing composition.
Some examples of decorative props are window curtains, pictures, table lamps, candles, lanterns, and so on.
Decorative props help to reinforce the brand identity and create a visually cohesive experience for the viewers.
- Natural elements
With green consumerism becoming the norm worldwide, having eco-friendly products featuring natural elements in product photography is an amazing way to promote environmentally friendly products.
The products made of natural materials and ingredients shine best against the backdrop of natural elements. Use versatile natural props like dried leaves, rocks or stones, flowers, herbs, coconut, and so on.
You can place these props in the background or have them in the foreground. Natural elements can create a sense of depth or a soft, muted look, depending on how you use them.
- Geometric shapes
Using geometrical shapes as props is on the trending list for 2023. They are best used to frame your product while adding depth and perspective to your images. They successfully add an interesting composition, visual interest, balance, and symmetry to the photograph.
Wooden blocks and risers are the most common and easy to use. With a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, they can vary tones that you might not be aware are present in your photograph.
If you’re planning to add an interesting and creative touch to your product photography, adding plaster props can be a great way to do that. They are raised, curved lines that create a light-shadow effect.
- Mirrors
Mirrors have long been used as a product photography prop, and they are here to stay. They are best used for skincare texture shots, jewelry, and other small products. They have a wide array of uses and give a more organic look when used as a featured element.
Mirrors add dimension, reflection, uniqueness, and sophistication to your product image. They come in different shapes and sizes to create the effect you’re striving for. For instance, adding silver adds a touch of luxury to the product photos.
Choosing the best props for product photography
Adding props is the easiest thing to do, but correctly using them to enhance the photograph is not that easy. To powerfully use props in your photo, keep the following things in mind:
- Understand your product.
Adding too many props will clutter the whole look of the product photo while also distracting the buyer from the main product. Many times, you can best highlight the product without using any props. It is crucial to understand the product first, decide whether there is a need to use any props, and then use the best prop to enhance the overall photo.
- Create a mood.
One of the primary purposes of using props is to create a mood that communicates with the audience. Creative product photography setups along with the best props can elevate the mood and aesthetic appeal of the photograph. Be clear about the theme you’re going to incorporate into your product photos and select the prop appropriately.
- Consider Composition.
Visualize how the props will interact with your product and how they’ll be arranged within the frame. Aim for a balanced composition that highlights the product while maintaining a pleasing visual arrangement.
- Avoid clutter and distractions.
The main aim of the prop is to enhance the overall appeal of the product photography rather than suppressing it or distracting the viewers. You need to keep the composition, negative and positive space, product color, style, and theme in mind to create a sense of scale in the photograph and avoid clutter.
Conclusion
Incorporating props effectively into your product photography can elevate your images and convey a compelling narrative. From backdrops and lifestyle props to natural elements and geometric shapes, there’s a wide array of props to choose from in 2023’s trends. Remember, prop usage requires a delicate balance; understanding your product, creating the right mood, and maintaining composition is key. So, embark on this creative journey, select props that resonate with your brand and products, and let your product photography truly shine.
Ready to elevate your brand with stunning product imagery? Contact Impression Photography today, where our dedicated and skilled photographers craft exceptional visuals that leave a lasting impact. Let’s transform your products into captivating works of art!
