The Power of Props: What to Bring to Your Brand Photoshoot

You can plan your outfit. You can pick the perfect location. But here’s a little behind-the-scenes secret: the props you bring to your brand session can completely change how your images connect with your audience and tell your story.

I get it. Props might sound like something from a high school drama class. But in brand photography? They’re total magic. I’ve worked with hundreds of creative women entrepreneurs, and I’ve seen it again and again – when you bring the right (and enough!) props, your session goes from “pretty pictures” to a visual story of who you are.

So let’s talk about why props matter, and how to choose the ones that will elevate your brand, show your personality, and make your audience feel right at home with you.

Why Props Matter (More Than You Might Think)

When I’m planning your personal brand photoshoot, one big goal runs through everything: showcasing your business and your personality in a way that feels real, intentional, and you. That’s where props make all the difference.

Props ground your story in the real world. They add action, movement, life. Think about it – would you rather stand stiffly in an empty room, or sip coffee from your favorite mug while your laptop shows off your latest course design? The second one feels like something your audience can connect with. It makes your brand real, not just styled.

And bonus? You can’t have too many props. Seriously. I always say the more the better. We’ll curate and style them together during your session, but having lots of options gives us freedom and flexibility to get those perfect personality portraits you’re dreaming of.

My Go-To Prop Categories (That Always Work)

Not sure where to start? Don’t stress. I guide every client with a personalized shoot guide to help brainstorm prop ideas specific to your work and vibe, but here are five categories that work beautifully for almost every creative woman entrepreneur I photograph.

1. Your Daily Tools of Business

Let’s show what you actually do. Capture the texture of your daily hustle.

• Laptops, tablets, cell phones
• Pens, notepads, sticky notes
• Branded packaging, thank you cards, business cards
• Course outlines or client worksheets
• Digital mock-ups or your course platform dashboard

Think: What do you touch every single day in your business? Let’s use that.

2. Passion Projects or Products

Especially if you’re a maker or product-based business, this is your chance to show what you’re proud of.

• A few small products
• Gift wrap or packaging tools
• Color palettes, swatches, sketchbooks
• Portfolio pieces or printed mockups

Something you’ve created with your own two hands? Yes please. Let’s include that.

3. Things You Love

Your audience wants to see that human side. Bring something that represents your joy.

• Your favorite mug or coffee tumbler
• A book that inspires you
• A candle, plant, or mini bouquet
• Funky glasses, hats, or accessories
• Favorite playlist displayed on your phone

You don’t have to be all business. If it lights you up, it belongs in the session.

4. Life & Mama Magic

For so many of my clients, being a mother is a central part of their brand and identity. Let’s honor that.

• Kids’ artwork or little hands wrapped around your arm
• Journals where you plan your biz and plan dinner
• A baby carrier, toy, or lunchbox
• Sneakers you wear for the school pick-up hustle

You’re a whole person…not just an entrepreneur. We celebrate all of you here.

5. Flat Lay Must-Haves

Lighting the props just right to capture the details? It’s a YES from me. Flat lays are not only visually beautiful, but also super versatile for your online marketing.

• Branded postcards, stickers, merch
• Paper clips, washi tape, brush pens
• Your laptop, phone, coffee and a notebook styled together
• Business cards arranged with intentional detail

These images give you content gold: social media fillers, website headers, Pinterest graphics, and more…all without needing to be in every shot.

You Bring the Vision – I’ll Bring the Strategy

I believe every prop in your session should support your story. Nothing random. Nothing forced. We’re not just throwing stuff around hoping it looks cute.

During your planning process, I’ll work with you to:

• Identify the tone and message of your brand
• Suggest prop ideas through a detailed and personalized shoot guide
• Curate the props you bring to be purposeful and on-brand
• Style them on-site during our session to feel natural and editorial

I know you want photos that feel like you AND work for your business. That’s what we’re building together.

If You’ve Been Wondering What to Bring… Consider This Your Sign

If you’re the kind of woman who wants her custom brand session to go beyond headshots and truly reflect the depth of her business and life… then props are your not-so-secret weapon.

They’re powerful storytelling tools. They make posing feel easier (because you’re doing something, not just smiling into the void). And they make the finished gallery rich with variety and emotional connection.

Don’t overthink it. Start with what you already use and love. And if you’re not sure where to begin? I’ve got a full planning process that makes it feel easy.

Ready to Plan a Brand Session With a Heart for Storytelling?

Interested in a branding session that feels refreshingly you from start to finish? I’d love to hear more about your business and help you create imagery you’ll be proud to show off.

If you’re a creative entrepreneur in St. Louis looking for smart, strategic brand photography that helps your business grow and flow… Let’s Chat!

Your brand is ready for the next level. Let’s bring all the little personal details with us…props and all