How Props tell the Story

A story can be told in different ways but it only makes a lasting impression once you bring it to life with graphic details. Exactly the same works for visual storytelling, brand photography. Imagine a woman sitting on a sofa, a cup of tea in her hand. What emotions do you associate with that cup of tea in her hand? Now imagine the same composition but a laptop instead of a cup of tea in the scene? How does this change the vibe of the image?

The question now is, according to the story you want to tell, what props would you want to include to set the right vibe? What do the different props stand for? Let’s have a look.

Work

Next to the obvious choice like your laptop you could include accessories like office supplies, planner, glasses, pretend handouts, phone, pens, sticky notes, fancy briefcase.

Energy

Since feeling energetic is non-visible, this can be different for everyone. But common props are coffee/espresso cup, muesli bars, chocolate, nuts.

Fitness/Health

Fitness and health are an essential part of our daily life and easy to showcase with a water bottle, running shoes, dumbbells, smartwatch, yoga mat, smoothie, all sorts of fruits like an apple or blueberries, or even a salad if you want to make an effort.

Relax

Life is not only about work but also about the balance. Show how you unwind with props like a cup of tea, glass of wine, some chocolate, aromatic oil, candle, journaling, sketching or simply reading a book.

Education

Many of my clients are educators or coaches and need to showcase expertise in their images. A great way to do this is including laptop, microphone, headphones, books and notebooks.

Fun

Including fun props like donuts, macarons, confetti, champagne, balloons or anything you can relate with adds authenticity to your brand. At the end of the day we are all just humans, aren’t we?

If you want to read more about props, check out this article “Creative Prop Ideas for your Branding Photoshoot” or if you would like to know “What to expect at a Branding Photoshoot”, I’ve got you covered, too.