It’s no secret that a picture tells a thousand words.

Imagery is an incredibly powerful tool and should be taken into consideration when planning your business photoshoot.

I love using props at all my photo shoots as it’s the perfect way to relax you when someone is poking a camera in your face.

Prop ideas are endless and no two business owners would ever bring the same props to a shoot.

Here are some tips to help you consider which props would be right for you for your next business shoot.

Industry related props:

• Tools of the trade. What do you use every day in your business? You could take it further and add a fun historical element by considering what would have been used in your business 50 years ago. 

• Everyone uses phones and computers, so think differently and choose an object that will make you stand out.

• Do you have inspirational quotes that you run your business by? Adding quotes either on letter boards or printed quote cards is a lovely way to inspire others and get your philosophy across.

• Reuseable signs, boards, iPad screen, Laptop screen, mobile screen or other items. Can be a great way to create images that can have text digitally added to them in the future.

Industry prop suggestions:

• Photographer – Camera.
• Accountant – Calculator or computer.
• Graphic designer – Pens, markers and other drawing materials.
• Yoga teacher – Yoga mat, water bottle.
• Health – Fresh food, cook books, weights, tape measure and vitamins.
• Stylist – Colour charts, fabrics and mood boards.
• Chinese medicine – Acupuncture needles, cupping equipment, natural herbs, candle, and towels.

Personal props:

This is where the fun begins.

Personal props allow you to easily add your personality into your branding images.

Showcasing the real you to the world helps you to connect with your customers or clients on a more personal level, creating a sense of trust and familiarity.

The options for personal props really are endless, but here are a few ideas:

• Things on your desk such as potted plants, picture frames and small ornaments.

• Your favourite mug, takeaway coffee cup, or drink bottle.

• Something unique about you. You might have a nick name or an in-joke that only some of your audience will get, your favourite childhood toy or your favourite food.

• Your diary and some nice pens or highlighters.

• Books and magazines

Tip: Remember to consider colour.

I love colour as a way of creating a strong visual brand for businesses and the easiest way to add colour to your photos is with your props.

So much can be communicated through the use of colour so it’s worth considering how you can use this powerful visual tool to get your brand’s unique personality across.

Now that you’ve got a good idea of how powerful props can be, it’s over to you. What props have you used? What item connects with your business on a deeper level?

I’d love to hear the story behind the props you’ve chosen!