A Photographer’s Favorite Props: Creating Stories with Childhood Treasures

There’s something magical about the way a simple prop can spark a child’s imagination and bring a photo to life. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best images often come from moments of play and imagination—not just perfect poses. One of the ways I help children feel comfortable and creative during their session is by introducing props. Whether it’s a vintage suitcase, a wooden airplane, or a favorite stuffed bear, the right prop can spark joy, storytelling, and those beautiful, unscripted moments that parents treasure forever.  

Why Props Matter in Storytelling Photography

Props do more than decorate a scene—they add context, emotion, and playfulness. They help turn a simple portrait into a moment filled with wonder.

When children are given a choice of a toy or prop to hold, it immediately invites them into a playful space. It gives them something to hold onto—something familiar and fun—which helps them relax. Suddenly, they’re not worried about smiling for the camera or “doing everything right.” Their imagination takes over, and that’s when the magic happens.

These are the moments where I capture genuine expressions—curiosity, joy, focus, and delight—without ever asking a child to pose. With a few simple instructions, props become part of the story they’re creating.

The Art of Selecting the Right Props

Here’s how I decide what works best for each session:

 1. Keep It Simple and Meaningful

Less is more. Too many items can clutter the scene and distract from the subject. I choose props that help tell the story — not overwhelm it. 

My Favorite Props for Kids’ Sessions

Here are the tried-and-true items that consistently help me capture beautiful, meaningful childhood portraits:

A Sall bucke or Umbrella

These are perfect for pictures at the creek or pond

Wooden Airplanes

Simple toys like a wooden plane invite imagination that looks gorgeous on camera.

Storybooks

Books are magical — they encourage quiet moments, sweet interactions between siblings, and heartfelt expressions.

Stuffed Animals or Favorite Toys

A beloved toy isn’t just a prop — it’s comfort, connection, and personality wrapped into one.

Tea Sets & Blankets

Great for sister sessions, birthday shoots, or whimsical storybook pictures filled with soft, intimate energy.

A Real Session Favorite

One of my favorite sessions involved two little boys who just happened to be brothers. I handed them a wooden sword, a treasure map, and a pair of binoculars—and suddenly, we weren’t just on a field near Cranberry Township anymore. We were on an epic adventure to find hidden treasure.

That’s the power of props: they invite the child in—and then they invite us into the magic, too.

Making Props Work During the Shoot

Here are a few practical ways I use props for my Children Fine Art Outdoor Portraits:

✔ Interactive Props Spark Imagination — Children worry less about the camera and relax when they can hold, move, or play with a toy.
✔ Movement Meets Emotion — A prop that encourages action (like “fly your airplane toward me”) creates a moment where the child is using their imagination as they run. 
✔ Seasonal or Thematic Elements — Natural props like flowers in spring or leaves in fall are the perfect props for telling a story and keeping the child's interest.

✨ Wooden Swords & Pirate Maps

A must for little adventurers ready to discover buried treasure. These props encourage action and imagination—resulting in candid, storytelling portraits.

✨ Tea Sets & Blankets

Lovely for sweet sister sessions, birthday shoots, or just a dreamy outdoor tea party. These special touches bring softness and nostalgia to every frame.

✨ Storybooks & Diaries

Books are some of my most beloved props—especially for children who love to read or imagine. If a child can’t read yet, I simply ask them to make up a story. Sometimes I’ll pose them writing in a diary or journal, lost in their own little thoughts. When siblings are together, I often have the oldest “read” to the younger ones. Other times, it’s just about quietly walking and holding a beautiful book. If parents let me know their child loves reading, I always find a way to include books. These moments feel timeless—and the images we create together reflect that quiet magic.

✨ Wooden Airplanes

There’s something so nostalgic and joyful about a wooden airplane in a child’s hands. It’s the perfect prop for play—especially out in an open field where little ones can "fly" and imagine the sky’s the limit. The simplicity of the toy invites movement, freedom, and pure childhood wonder, all of which photograph beautifully.

✨ Stuffed Animals or Favorite Toys

Sometimes, the best prop is one that already belongs to the child. I love including a well-loved teddy bear or a favorite truck—it brings comfort and authenticity to the portrait. But if they don’t bring one from home, no worries! I keep a collection of soft, adorable stuffed teddy bears for children to choose from. They often pick one to carry as we walk through the woods or explore the fields. It helps them feel secure, gives them something to hold, and adds such a sweet, sentimental touch to their portraits.

Let’s Create Something Magical

If you’re ready to book a storytelling session that captures your child’s spirit, imagination, and wonder, CONTACT ME. I’ll take care of the props—you bring the magic.

If you live in Mars, Cranberry Township, Fox Chapel, Wexford or the greater Pittsburgh area, 
you can learn more about Why I use small props and environment props by reading my series of blogs about how meaningful children’s portraits are thoughtfully created