6 Prop Ideas for taking Stunning Travel Photos in Italy
It’s not every day that you get to travel to Italy. You’ve already booked your vacation photographer, your locations are planned, you’ve already picked out all of the clothes you’re going to wear on the big day and you’ve even practiced a few poses in the mirror (awkward as it was)… now what?
I love wandering around Florence with my photography clients; finding great locations, making sure the light is perfect and shooting all the magical candid moments that happen in between. The one thing that makes a great shoot even better though, is adding props!
Props allow you to interact with the world and each other in a more natural and laid back way. They allow you to take the focus off of the task at hand and to be yourself. They also add another interesting layer to the photographs which tell the story more effectively. I’m always happy to be spontaneous by using props that we find along the way but a little planning goes a long way.
Here are 6 great prop ideas for your photoshoot in Italy:
1. Glasses of wine:
You’re in the land of exquisite wines… why not sip a savory red or a sweet, sparkling Italian Rosé? You can sip it at a little cafe on a tiny Italian street or bring along your own bottle to uncork while overlooking a perfect vista. Either way, it adds a great detail to photos of couples, friends, or even solo travelers.
2. Gelato (Italian Ice cream):
This one is a favorite of mine in the summer months. It’s the perfect way to cool down and treat yourself at the end of a shoot (the end of the shoot because, let’s face it, it can be super messy… especially with kids!). There are plenty of amazing artisanal gelaterias that can be found throughout any city of Italy. The different colors of the diverse flavors are also a great addition to the photos. Make sure you plan your shoot so that you end the day close to your favorite spot.
3. Sketchbook/Journal:
This prop is probably the most unique of the bunch. It gives you a reason to buy that beautiful leather sketchbook/journal that you’ve always seen your cool artist friends with. Nothing is more unique and original than a photo of you with a sketchbook/journal in hand while you’re gazing out over the beautiful views of Italy. The artistic nature of the prop add a fantastic element to your photographs. Don’t forget your pen!
4. Shot of espresso or a cappuccino:
Are you as obsessed with Italian espresso as I am? They really have it down to a science here!! If you go to the right place and the right barista they will even create a beautiful design in the foam for you. Show your love for the black bubbly and use it as a prop in your photos. This one, of course, I recommend doing in the beginning of the shoot for an added energy boost for all that lovely modeling you’re going to do.
5. Bikes or Scooters:
Bikes are so graphically beautiful. Why not have a little fun and add some movement to your photographs! Scooters are even more exciting if you’re up for the adventure. There are many places to rent bikes and scooters around the city and they make great props for a romantic and fun Italian shoot.
6. Old Vintage/Polaroid Camera
Italy seems to have frozen in time. It’s an open medieval museum that houses incredible works of art from long, long ago. Bringing a modern camera is great but why not stay in tune with this vintage style and sport a cool old camera on your shoulder? Even better if it works! Great to create beautiful souvenirs to take back home and a perfect prop for your photoshoot.
Of course, these are only a few ideas for props that you can use on a photoshoot in Italy. Let me know your ideas in the comments below! In my opinion, the best props are usually the ones that the models use in their everyday lives. The more natural you feel around the prop, the more natural you will look in the photos. Happy shooting!!
