This post will give you a ton of tips on props for taking professional pics of kiddos from newborn to beyond toddlerhood!
Props make the shot, they add color, fun, and interest that make the photos pop off the page. If you are planning a shoot for your infant, newborn, toddler, or family I have a list of things you may want to consider to get that perfect shot.
I’ll link each tip to where to buy so your search stops here!!
For infants between 1 month and 12 months
Hats:
Hats make the shot. Don’t believe me? Keep scrolling and you’ll be a believer! From Sock Monkey to Bunny, no matter what you put on a tiny little head it will look divine.
Rugs:
What’s behind and underneath you IS important. Did you you notice the soft puffy white cloud under the baby in the two photos above? It’s not the focus of the shot but its what makes the whole picture come together and looks soft and sweet. Don’t miss this element! Flokati rugs are great but traditional flokatis are wool, shed and quite frankly stink! You can get similar look with this shiny, super soft synthetic rug (no allergies here!) like the Juliet Metallic shag in cream.
Did I mention babies look cute in Hats? Look at this cute Baby Fedora!
Baskets:
They have a great selection of Basket photo props on Etsy. Search here.
Infant Cocoons & Wraps:
These soft pouches protect the baby and keep them warm during the shoot. The cuteness factor is also a plus. These come in an array of colors and shapes. Shop Cocoons here at one of my favorite Etsy shops MadaboutColour.
Baby Ties:
Nothing is cuter than a little man dressing like his daddy. Baby ties come in an array of colors and patterns. I recommend picking one that will bring out the babies eyes. Shop Baby ties here.
Tutus:
Tutu’s are an easy DIY project and look so cute on a baby girl. Tutu’s also add a girly touch to even the most plain background.
Bubbles:
Have a little fun with your photo shoots. Break out the bubbles! Find a darker background so you can see the bubbles against the background. Kids love this prop idea!
For toddlers between 1 year and 4 years old
Candy:
A fun swirly Lollipop is a “sweet” way to enhance any photo. Add in a pop of colorful ballons and you have a super sweet shot! Pick one that coordinates with the outfit or in this case the ballons. I love shopping at the Bulk Candy Store for my Lollipops.
Balloons:
Balloons are super fun and an affordable photo prop. Oriental Trading has balloons in hundreds of colors. We choose balloons that have a metallic sheen to them so they would reflect brightly in the photos. Almost looks like the movie UP!
Flowers:
A bouquet of flowers is easy to get and can be a great photo prop. In this shot we knew we had the red boots and the old rusty red wagon that would match nicely with the roses. This shot with its setting at the barn, the old rusty wagon, and the roses has an old fashioned feel to it.
Chairs:
A cute kiddo sized rocker is a great prop. And you can use it after the shoot which is a bonus! Buy a Rocker like this here!
Red Accents
You’ll notice I use red accents a lot. They pop in the photos and create great visual appeal. The below hat was from the Children’s Place.
Keep it Simple:
This shot of the little girl laying with her pillow of curls was effortless but will always be one of my favorites. I love how all of the focus is on her, she doesn’t need props to make the shot.
Color:
This pumpkin is a great prop for this photo. You’ll always remember it was Halloween and the colors balance eachother out. Check out those Ruby Slippers!
Sibling Photo Ideas
Kisses:
Not much is sweeter than seeing siblings show affection and love. So if you can bribe them with candy to do it on camera. I highly suggest it. You’ll get tears out of the grandparents for years.
Location:
Sometimes the weirdest locations provide the best photography juxtaposition. This rugged large tractor tire makes a great prop for these two little ones.
Family Shots
Photo Frame:
A photo frame creates a frame within a frame and lets you focus in the subjects. Frames add an eye catching affect to any photo.
But sometimes…
Mom is the only prop needed…
Photos of infant and baby girl to age 1 girl- courtesy of talented Sara D Harper
Photos of baby boy and siblings courtesy of my friend and AMAZING photographer Andy Baxter Photography.
I have seen one thing that is, whenever its about children photography they always look so beautiful even without any effort. Just loved each of the shot and yes I myself got some ideas for family pictures. Thank you.
Wow!! great Post. so much creativity idea & Fantastic Human Photo Manipulation. thanks for sharing