Styling a Session With Fun Props!

12 Apr Styling a Session With Fun Props!

When photographing children I love to include props to make it fun. Props engage children in pretend play, make them feel comfortable and forget that I am there snapping away. This is the time that I can capture those natural smiles and expressions, the ones parents know and love. No forced or fake smiles, just children having fun and enjoying something new and exciting.
Styling a session like this one takes time. I had found this oar at a garage sale and could instantly see my vision. I then set about finding a rusty wheelbarrow to use as the boat, a tea towel for the sail and a stick and twine for a fishing rod. I had the perfect location in mind and it all came together easily. This little boy really enjoyed pretend fishing. He was quite hesitant when he first arrived but once he started playing he relaxed and fitted into the scene so easily.
My aim is to make the whole experience fun and more like a play date than a photography session and more often than not, we end the session best friends! If a child feels comfortable and relaxed then the end product will be natural photos that you as a parent will love.