Prop Yourself Up: The Ultimate Guide to Senior Portrait Props
Senior Portraits and the Magic of Props
Senior portraits: the rite of passage that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. But how do you capture the essence of your senior year in a single image? The answer might lie in the perfect prop.
Hey there, future grads! Chris here from Zdarko Photography. Are you ready to rock your senior portraits? Let's talk props.
Before we dive into it, remember that the links mentioned are Amazon Affiliate links - you still get the Amazon Prices at no extra cost to you. So, if you're looking to elevate your senior photos with some special props and also support my lunch fund, don't hesitate to check out those links and pick up some fantastic props!
The Prop Master Plan
Instruments of Awesome
Even if you play an instrument that is too big or heavy to carry, you can still thrash on some air guitar (or heck, just bring your drumsticks, picks, or your instrument bow to use as a prop.) 🤘
Music is a beautiful expression of art, you’ve mastered the craft, show off its beauty!
Time to Show Off the Letterman Jacket
Sports & Extra-curricular activites… What moves you?! Bring your Jacket and bring your gear. Whether it be a football or your ballet shoes, there is a story to be told through the art of photography. Want some of those awesome shots with the tennis racket on fire? We can create that (without the need for having the fire department on standby!)
Sign Language
This is where your creativity can really come into play! There is nothing wrong with the classic “Senior” sign, but feel free to play around with the idea. You can create your own sign, or simply write on a small chalkboard the message you want to convey! (As long as you don’t have chicken scratch for handwriting like yours truly)
Some ideas to help you spark some creativity:
“I did it!”
“I’m out of here!”
“Future Doctor”
Accessorize Your Life
This can be as simple as changing your earrings to a complete wardrobe swap, but some ideas to help you get heading in the right direction might include:
Handheld: Cups, Drinks, Purses, Laptops, Books, Backpack, Phones, Notepad
Vintage Props: Old telephone, mirror, or many other fun props that could be had here. I encourage you to check out your local vintage (or even secondhand stores) and you might find something special!
Pets are Family, Not Props
But they can sure showcase the bond of your love with your pet! As long as the location is pet-friendly (and they are not prone to running away) animals can serve as a wonderful “prop” for your senior portraits! If you decide to bring along your animals, don’t forget to bring the treats or toys to help keep the animal relaxed.
Showcase Your Passion
What is it about YOU that you want to scream to the world? Do you drive an awesome car? Do you own a collection of Pokémon cards? Did you draft the blueprint to a high-rise building? Did you bowl a perfect game during your league season? Does your family have an heirloom that holds significant value to you?
Bring it all! Let’s not only capture your personality, but let’s showcase your passion!
The Prop Master’s Secret Weapon
Whether you decide to show up with a prop or not, there are many ways to showcase your unique personality and capture some stunning images. Wearing a jacket or a dress? These can serve as a prop with some unique and fun ways to capture those images. Look around at your environment; by simply changing your perspective you can significantly change the narrative of the story an image holds… Find a staircase, or a monument, or a sunset sky backdrop for a couple of examples.
When working with your photographer during the planning phase, it never hurts to ask them if they have a specific prop, backdrop, or special effect they can create for you.
Want a free consultation with zero obligation about Zdarko Photography’s Senior Sessions? Fill out this quick form below!
