My Favorite Props for Brand Shoots
How the right details can tell your story and elevate your brand imagery
When it comes to brand photography, every detail matters. While your smile, posture, and wardrobe are essential, props can subtly reinforce your story and personality. The right props help convey what you do, who you serve, and the energy of your brand. In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite ways to use props in brand sessions and show how even simple items can make a big impact.
Story from the Field
When I worked with a local realtor for her brand session, we faced a fun challenge, realtors don’t typically have a lot of props. So instead of forcing anything that didn’t feel authentic, we decided to tell her story using her real environments: her home and her office.
We wanted to show her in action, connecting with clients and managing her business. To make it feel genuine, I brought in my assistant to act as a client. We used realistic props like contracts, her laptop, phone, coffee mug, and even her adorable pup, all things that are part of her everyday routine.
The result was a collection of images that felt natural, professional, and relatable. Her audience could instantly see her warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail. It was the perfect example of how brand photography can capture the essence of your work without relying on flashy props, just authentic moments that tell your story.
Photo Tip of the Month
Think in Layers. When choosing props for your brand session, consider how they can visually support your story. Start with items that represent your daily tools, like notebooks, tech devices, or samples and then layer in textures or accents that reflect your personality: a vase of flowers, a favorite mug, or a pop of color in your wardrobe.
Props should complement you, not compete with you. The goal is for them to help your audience instantly understand your expertise and vibe before they’ve even read a word.
Bonus tip: Less is more. A few carefully chosen items will look intentional and polished, while too many can clutter the frame and distract from your face.
A Seasonal Reminder
July is a great time to refresh your visuals! If you haven’t updated your brand photos in a while, consider scheduling a Summer Brand Boost Session or joining my Brand Refresh Club.
Members enjoy monthly or quarterly photo sessions, perfect for keeping your content fresh for every season, holiday, or new offer. You’ll always have beautiful, on-brand images ready for your website, newsletters, and social media.
Brand Refresh Club benefits include:
- Consistent, cohesive visuals year-round
- Strategic planning for upcoming campaigns
- Variety—different outfits, locations, and seasonal details
- Exclusive membership pricing and priority booking
- A growing image library for all your marketing needs
If your brand evolves throughout the year (and whose doesn’t?), your photos should evolve with it.
