DIY Props for Product Photography

Props can play an important role in product photography.

They have the ability to turn simple shots into compelling visuals.

It doesn’t matter if you’re shooting for an:

◈ online store,

◈ a social media campaign, or a

◈ print catalog,

the right props can elevate your product images, adding context, depth, and personality.

And here is the good news, you don’t need to break the bank on expensive studio props.

You can make many props from items you already have at home.

In this article, we’ll explore how to create and use DIY props for product photography.

These props are designed to complement and enhance your product without overpowering it.

We’ll cover props from simple household items like mugs and trays.

I’ll share some creative DIY projects like non-melting ice cubes and handmade paper flowers.

You will get a variety of ideas to add visual interest and style to your product shots.

So let’s get started …

Prop Ideas from Everyday Items

Simple and Useful Props Found at Home

When it comes to product photography, sometimes the best props are those that can be found right at home.

These everyday items can add a touch of realism, texture, and style to your shots, helping to create an appealing visual story around your product.

• Glasses, Mugs, Cups, and Saucers:
  Simple kitchen items like glasses, mugs, cups, and saucers are incredibly versatile props in product photos. They can be used to create lifestyle scenes, especially for products related to food, beverages, or home decor. For instance, a coffee mug can be paired with a bag of coffee beans or a cozy sweater to evoke warmth and comfort. When photographing a small product, placing it inside or near a glass or cup can help convey scale and context.
• Example: Imagine a shot featuring a luxurious tea blend. You could place the tea in an elegant teacup, with the packaging in the background and a few scattered tea leaves on the saucer. This setup not only highlights the product but also creates a mood that appeals to tea lovers.

• Plates, Bowls and Trays:
  Plates, bowls and trays provide a clean and organized base for small products. They can be particularly effective for cosmetics, jewelry, or food items, offering a neutral backdrop that allows the product to stand out. Depending on the style you’re aiming for, you can choose plates and trays with different textures and colors to either complement or contrast with the product.
• Example: A beautifully arranged plate with a set of artisanal soaps or a tray holding a collection of luxury cosmetics can make the products look more upscale and inviting.

• Ribbons and Paper:
  Ribbons and decorative paper are excellent for adding texture, color, and a sense of occasion to your product photos. Whether you’re photographing gift items, jewelry, or small accessories, a well-placed ribbon or piece of decorative paper can make the image feel festive and elegant.
• Example: For a gift-wrapped box, you could use a ribbon tied into a neat bow, with the ends cascading down the sides of the box. This adds a touch of luxury and makes the image feel ready for a special occasion.

• Artificial and Real Plants or Flowers:
  Adding greenery to your product shots can introduce a fresh, natural element. Whether you choose artificial or real plants, they can help create a more organic and serene atmosphere in your photos. Flowers and plants work particularly well with skincare products, perfumes, or any product marketed as natural or eco-friendly.
• Example: A skincare product placed next to a small succulent or a few sprigs of eucalyptus can emphasize the product’s natural ingredients, reinforcing its appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

• Candles:
  Candles are ideal for creating a warm, ambient atmosphere, which is perfect for products related to relaxation, luxury, or home decor. The soft glow of a lit candle can add a sense of tranquility to the image, making the product more appealing.
• Example: A lit candle beside a bottle of bath oil can create a spa-like setting, inviting the viewer to imagine a relaxing evening at home.

• Sweaters and Textured Fabrics:
  Textured fabrics like sweaters, burlap, or lace can add depth and warmth to your photos, making them more inviting and tactile. These props are particularly effective for products like jewelry, watches, or winter-themed items, where the texture of the fabric can enhance the overall aesthetic.
• Example: A cozy sweater used as a backdrop for a winter-themed jewelry shoot adds a layer of comfort and warmth, making the jewelry feel more personal and special.

By incorporating these everyday items into your product photography, you can create images that elevate the appeal of your products.

These props are not only accessible but also versatile, allowing you to experiment and find the perfect combination that complements your product.

DIY Prop Projects

Crafting Your Own Unique Props

Creating your own props allows you to customize them to perfectly suit your product photography needs.

Here are some DIY prop ideas that are easy to make and can add a unique touch to your photos.

Non-Melting Ice Cubes:

• • Materials: 2-part clear silicone, ice cube mold.
  • Step-by-Step Guide:
    • Step 1: Mix the two parts of the silicone according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Step 2: Pour the mixture into the ice cube mold and allow it to cure completely.
    • Step 3: Once cured, remove the cubes from the mold. These silicone “ice cubes” can be used repeatedly in photoshoots without melting or condensation.
  • Application: These ice cubes are ideal for drink photography, keeping the beverage looking cool and refreshing throughout the shoot without the mess of real ice.

DIY Rock Garden:

• • • Materials: Assorted rocks, shallow tray, sand or soil.
    • Step-by-Step Guide:
      • Step 1: Gather a variety of small, smooth rocks and clean them thoroughly.
      • Step 2: Fill a shallow tray with sand or soil.
      • Step 3: Arrange the rocks in a visually pleasing pattern on the tray to create a miniature rock garden.
    • Application: This prop is perfect for wellness or nature-themed product shoots, such as for organic skincare products or candles, adding an earthy, serene element to your images.

Textured Backdrops with Fabric:

• • Materials: Old sweaters, burlap, lace.
  • Step-by-Step Guide:
    • Step 1: Choose fabrics that complement the product’s color and theme.
    • Step 2: Arrange the fabric on the surface where the product will be placed, creating folds or drapes for texture.
    • Step 3: Adjust the fabric to frame the product without overshadowing it.
  • Application: Textured fabrics add depth and a tactile quality to your photos, making them ideal for products like jewelry, watches, or winter-themed items.

Handmade Paper Flowers:

• • Materials: Colored paper, scissors, glue, floral wire.
  • Step-by-Step Guide:
    • Step 1: Cut the paper into petal shapes of varying sizes.
    • Step 2: Assemble the petals around a piece of floral wire, gluing them in place.
    • Step 3: Shape the petals to create a realistic-looking flower.
  • Application: These paper flowers can be used to create a romantic or whimsical setting for products like perfumes, cosmetics, or wedding accessories.

Folded Paper:

• • Materials: Colored or patterned paper.
  • Step-by-Step Guide:
    • Step 1: Start by folding a sheet of paper back and forth in a zigzag pattern, creating even, accordion-like folds. The width of the folds can vary depending on the desired look.
    • Step 2: Once folded, you can leave them flat or bend them into tubes.
    • Step 3: Adjust the folds and position the paper sculpture in the background or alongside the product to add a touch of elegance and movement to the photo.
  • Application: Folded paper is perfect for creating a sense of movement and drama in your images, adding a decorative touch that can be used with products like cosmetics, jewelry, or home decor.

Origami Sculptures:

• • Materials: Origami paper, instructional guide (if needed).
  • Step-by-Step Guide:
    • Step 1: Choose an origami design that suits the theme of your photoshoot, such as a crane for a serene, peaceful vibe, or a geometric shape for a modern, minimalist look.
    • Step 2: Follow the folding instructions to create the sculpture. Take your time to ensure clean, precise folds.
    • Step 3: Once completed, place the origami sculpture next to or behind the product to add an artistic element to the image.
  • Application: Origami sculptures can bring an artistic, handcrafted feel to your photos, enhancing products like artisanal goods, handmade jewelry, or zen-inspired products.

Best Practices for Using Props in Product Photography

Enhancing Your Product Without Overpowering It

Props can really enhance product photography, but you’ve got to use them wisely.

The primary goal of any product photo is to showcase the product itself.

The props should serve as complementary elements that add to the image without distracting from the main subject.

Here are some best practices to ensure that your props are used effectively:

• Balance is Key: The most important rule when using props is to maintain balance. Props should add context or highlight certain aspects of the product without drawing attention away from it. When setting up your shot, always step back and evaluate whether the props are magnifying the product or overpowering it. If the props are too dominant, consider scaling back or rearranging them to keep the focus on the product.
• Consistent Styling: Consistency in styling is essential for creating a cohesive look across your product images. The props you choose should align with the product’s brand image and target audience. For example, if you’re photographing luxury items, opt for props that convey elegance and sophistication, such as gold accents or marble surfaces. Conversely, for eco-friendly products, natural elements like wood, plants, or recycled materials would be more appropriate.

• Test and Refine: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different props and arrangements. Sometimes, the first setup isn’t the best one. Take test shots from various angles and with different prop placements. Review the images to see what works and what doesn’t. Refining your setup before the final shoot can save time in post-processing and ensure you get the perfect shot.
• Subtlety Over Complexity: In most cases, less is more when it comes to props. A simple, well-chosen prop can have a much greater impact than an elaborate setup that overwhelms the product. Aim for subtle accents that enhance the product’s appeal without cluttering the frame.
• Prop Color and Texture: Pay close attention to the color and texture of your props, as these can influence the overall mood and aesthetic of the image. For instance, soft, neutral tones can create a calm and inviting atmosphere, while bold colors can add energy and excitement. Similarly, the texture of props—whether smooth, rough, or metallic—can contribute to the visual depth of the photo.

Remember …

Using DIY props in product photography is a powerful way to add creativity and personalization to your images. (Plus save your budget! )

By incorporating everyday items, crafting your own unique props, and following best practices, you can make your product photos stand out in a competitive market.

The key is to use props that enhance the product without overshadowing it, ensuring that the main focus remains on what you’re selling.

No matter where you are on your photography journey, experimenting with props can open up new possibilities for your photography.

So, gather some materials, get creative, and start experimenting with these DIY prop ideas in your next product shoot.

With the right approach, you’ll be able to create stunning, professional-quality images that truly connect with your audience.

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