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The Best Photo Props

Last updated on January 7, 2024

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Photo shoots are all the rage, for both professionals and novices. Many people love to have photo shoots with their families and friends at special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, graduations and bachelor or bachelorette parties. It’s a great way to get some keepsake memories while having fun with those you love. In order to make the photo shoots even more exciting, many people add in photo props. These are typically silly accessories such as oversized glasses or funny hats, along with signs with cute and quirky phrases on them.

When choosing photo props, there are many different types to choose from. It all depends on the venue of the photo shoot. For example, the photo props you choose for a wedding may be different from the ones you choose for a birthday. It also depends on the atmosphere of the photo shoot and the vibe you want to create with the pictures. For those wanting to create a silly and animated feel, go with photo props like fake mustaches, large hats and comical signs. Those going for a sophisticated vibe can add in photo props such as empty picture frames, old books or feather boas.

Be sure to also consider the age group of the guests, as kids or teens may like different props from adults and seniors. When choosing photo props for kids, pay special attention to the size of the props to ensure they can be held easily by little hands. You’ll also want to ensure any references on the signs are age appropriate as well.

Our Picks For The Top Photo Props

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

BLUE PANDA Wedding Themed Photo Props, 72 Piece

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

BLUE PANDA

Wedding Themed Photo Props, 72 Piece

These wedding photo props are sturdy and made from strong cardstock. They include Mr. and Mrs. signs, oversized diamond rings and other fun props. The set is also great for bridal showers and other wedding-related parties.

Overall Take

Sturdy and FunThese wedding photo props are made from strong cardstock.

 Runner Up

Zonon Glittery Party Photo Props, 24 Piece

Zonon

Glittery Party Photo Props, 24 Piece

These versatile photo props are great for any kind of celebration. The set includes 24 different props like ties, hearts, wine glasses and cakes. The black and gold color combination is elegant and eye-catching.

Overall Take

Versatile ChoiceThese photo props are great for any kind of celebration.

 We Also Like

Konsait 2022 Graduation Photo Props, 50 Piece

Konsait

2022 Graduation Photo Props, 50 Piece

These photo props are made for students graduating college or high school in 2022. They include fun signs, glasses and accessories. The set has a black and gold color theme.

Overall Take

Ideal for StudentsThese photo props are perfect for college or high school graduations.

 Strong Contender

Joyousa Christmas Photo Props, 38 Piece

Joyousa

Christmas Photo Props, 38 Piece

These cheerful photo props are made for Christmas parties. They work great for small family gatherings or large corporate functions. The props require some assembly.

Overall Take

Holiday CheerThese photo props are made for Christmas parties.

What to Look For

  • Photography is an art, and so is choosing photo props. Be sure to pay special attention to the material the photo props are made out of. The material should not be shiny or reflective in any way, as that can show up in the photographs and take attention away from the people wearing the props. The material for the photo props should be matte and even.
  • When it comes to signs, which are a popular photo prop, be sure the writing is large and clear so it will be easy to read in the pictures. Check out the font as well to ensure it is legible. Sometimes, the signs can be written in an overly flowery cursive which can be hard to make out.
  • If you plan to use the photo props on multiple occasions, ensure their construction is durable and the props are sturdy. Many photo props are made out of a paper material, which often cannot withstand multiple uses.
  • Sometimes, guests at a photo shoot need some encouragement to use the photo props, especially if they are shy or nervous. Start by creating a prop table near the camera setup, where you can display all of the props. Typically, all you need is a large flat surface with a plain table cloth. Organize the props by type, such as all hats together, or by looks, such as all magician accessories together. Seeing all the props laid out makes it easier for guests to decide which ones they want to use. You may even want to take a few photos with the props yourselves and display them on the table to show people the possibilities.

More to Explore

Have you ever looked at an early photograph and wondered why the people in it aren’t smiling? There are many theories as to why being straight faced was the norm back then – completely opposite to the toothy grins we see in photographs today. One theory is that many people had poor oral hygiene at the time, so they weren’t proud of showing off their teeth. Another theory is that the culture was much more formal back then, and it just wasn’t appropriate to smile in photographs. Some believe that people didn’t smile in early photographs because taking the actual picture wasn’t instantaneous as it is now, and it was difficult for people to hold an authentic smile for a length of time.

More to explore