Creative and Inspiring Prop Ideas to Personalize Your Photo Session

Bring the Magic: Meaningful Props to Make Your Photo Session Unforgettable and Unique

Let’s talk props! Not the kind you find in a theater closet, but the kind that tells your story, adds heart to your session, and makes your photos feel like you. Do you have to include them into your photo session? No, of course not! But...

We could be working on a dreamy engagement session, tiptoeing around a sleepy newborn, or getting great shots in that “I’m-off-to-conquer-the-world” senior vibe, the right prop can add a whole new layer of meaning to your images.

So, here are some of my favorite ideas to spark inspiration for your next session:

1. A Blanket of Love (Newborn Sessions)

There’s something timeless about wrapping your little one in a special blanket. Maybe it’s the one Grandma knit, or maybe it’s that soft swaddle you’ve used every day since the hospital. A blanket isn’t just cozy, it’s also sentimental, and it becomes a soft little thread in your family’s story. Bonus points if it has some color or texture to make those snuggly photos pop! Almost the same applies to a beloved stuffed animal, or a personalized sign.

2. Wear Your Story (Senior Sessions)

Graduating is a significant milestone, and what better way to show off personality and history than with a meaningful piece of jewelry? A necklace passed down from a grandparent, a watch from your dad, or even that ring you bought on a special trip, it’s all part of who you are right now.

And don’t forget the non-jewelry items! Your worn, but oh so comfortable jacket, instruments, books, favorite sneakers, yes, those scuffed-up ones absolutely deserve a spot.

College senior at the University of Arkansas

📸 Remember: Your session should feel like you. Props are just reminders of what makes you uniquely amazing.

3. Tiny Tokens, Big Love (Wedding Days)

Weddings...the day where every detail has meaning. It may be your mom's earring, a delicate garter crocheted by your sister, or a note from your partner slipped into your pocket, these are the pieces that tell your story beyond the vows.

We’ll make sure to pause for a few quiet moments to photograph those mementos, the ones that might not be in the spotlight, but hold all the feels.

Delicate hand-made garter

Idea: Bring a tray or pretty box to style your details, such as rings, invitation suite, perfume bottle, and heirloom jewelry all together!

4. Meaning in the Details (Engagement Sessions)

Engagement sessions are the perfect time to showcase a little more of your love story. Bring along something meaningful, like a book you both love, a vintage camera if you met in a photography class (hey, it happens!), or a picnic setup with your favorite bottle of wine.

🍾 Fun suggestion: Pop a bottle of bubbly at golden hour. We’ll photograph that joy (and maybe a few cork-flying action shots, too).

5. Four-Legged Love (Any Session)

Let’s be honest, sometimes the real star of the show has fur, four legs, and thinks your lap is their throne. Maybe it’s your pup who’s been with you since your first apartment, your cat who graciously tolerates your love, or even a horse who’s part of your daily life. Bringing your pet adds instant personality and genuine joy to your photos.

They’re not just animals, they’re part of the family. So let them in on the fun! We’ll photograph the cuddles, the chaos, and the goofy grins (yours and theirs).

Couple with pet

Tip: Bring treats, a neutral leash or collar, and a backup human to help wrangle them between shots. Trust me, so worth it!

At the end of the day, the best prop is one that means something to you. It’s not about making a photo look “Pinterest-perfect”, it’s more about weaving your story into every frame. So bring the quirky, the cozy, the sentimental, and the symbolic. I’ll bring the camera!

Let’s make magic together!

Have a session coming up? Drop me a message if you’re not sure what to bring, I'd love to help brainstorm meaningful touches that elevate your photos from beautiful to unforgettable!