I’m certainly no expert when it comes to photography or social media. I started my page just about 6 months ago, but I have learned quite a lot about product photography in this short time span. And one thing that has really helped me is experimenting with different props for my Instagram photos. So I’ve decided to spill some of my secrets! I know I’m still learning, but I hope that what I have found out so far will help anyone that’s just starting out.
Also, it’s important to mention that props aren’t the only thing that make a good Instagram photo! Lighting, camera quality, framing, etc. are all important. I’m not going to be talking about any of that, and I’m not a professional photographer, so definitely do your own research if you’re interested.
1. Fairy Lights
String lights are incredibly versatile and cheap prop. They look great in the background of photos or right in front of the camera lens, or you can also use them more prominently in your photos for a lovely sparkly affect.
Where to buy: Amazon
2. Flowers
Everybody loves flowers. They make everything more beautiful and Instagram photos are no exception. Roses are probably my favorites for photos, but baby’s breath, tulips, and many others are great too. You can experiment with different types, dried or fresh, etc.
Where to buy: local grocery store
3. Mirrors
In this photo, I combine a bunch of my favorite props, and I am able to do so because of the mirror! I think reflections (of flowers, people, etc.) just look so cool. Also, pro tip, a mirror can be used to reflect light back onto your product if it’s too dark on one side.
Where to buy: Amazon
4. Jewelry
Photography is a great way to utilize the jewelry I hardly ever wear! The way it reflects light is really beautiful in my opinion. I especially like gold jewelry it adds a little bit of luxury to any photo.
Where to buy: Etsy, 6th Borough Boutique (Where I got this particular necklace, gifted*)
5. Gold Tray
You may be noticing that I use this gold tray a lot. I love how reflective it is. It’s an easy way to add some gold and glamour into any photo. And when you’re not photographing it, it’s a great tray for organizing your jewelry or beauty products.
Where to buy: Amazon
6. Salt Lamp or Rocks
Salt lamps, crystals, and rocks all make beautiful props. I have seen some really beautiful and creative uses for them on Instagram. And they’re not just good for Instagram! I love the way the make my bedroom feel cozy and almost magical.
Where to buy: Amazon, Etsy, EarthBound (where I got my salt lamp)
7. Greenery
Like flowers, leaves and plants are a lovely way to bring nature into your photos. Greenery is just a little more subtle, and doesn’t steal the attention away from the product like a flower might. I usually pick leaves out of bouquets I get at the grocery store, but you could also find them just lying around outdoors!
Where to buy: local grocery store or florist
8. Beverages
I like this photo okay, but I have seen some truly amazing photos on Instagram that use beverages as props. Tea, wine, coffee, (and especially dalgona coffee these days) or even water can be lovely additions to a photo. I think beverages really can add a cozy, classy, or homey element depending on the drink!
Where to buy: local grocery store or cafe
9. Tissue Paper
This is a really simple one, especially because many products come wrapped in tissue paper! You can crumple it up, use it as a background, and just get creative with it. It’s such an easy and cheap prop, that you might already have lying around, so I highly recommend giving it a try.
Where to buy: Amazon
Whatever you do, keep creating and trying new things! Don’t limit yourself to this list or any other.
Thank you for stopping by the Balancing Project! I hope you found this somewhat helpful. If you enjoyed this article, and are interested in skincare, make sure to check out my Ultimate Skincare Guide.
Please share any of your questions or photo prop tips in the comments below 🙂
Disclaimer: This Site contains both non-affiliate and affiliate links, and I may receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Some products marked by (*) were gifted to me for review purposes, but all thoughts are my own honest opinions. I am not an expert, these are just my personal experiences, and what works for me might not work for you.
