Props That Don’t Work in Brand Shoots (and What to Do Instead)

Props can make your brand photos come alive. They add personality, tell your story, and stop your gallery from being justheadshots. But the wrong props? They’ll make your photos look awkward, flat, or like you’ve raided the back of your cupboard five minutes before the shoot.

Here are Props That Don’t Work in Brand Shoots (and What to Do Instead)

1. The Whiteboard & Coloured Pens

I know, I know you’re trying to come across all corporate and like the type of person who stands in front of other business people and shares what you know… But let’s be honest: you can never actually read the scribbles. On camera it’s just a blur of wobbly lines and faded felt tips.

Better idea: we’ll shoot you mid-scribble and add the text digitally afterwards so it’s sharp, clear, and actually legible.

2. Playing Too Small

A single cupcake when what you really needed was a whole cake, or maybe an A4 print stuck on a wall when it needed to be A1. Tiny props just disappear on camera.

Better idea: go bold. Props need presence. If it feels a bit over the top in real life, it probably looks perfect on camera. And never worry that you’re bringing too much!

3. Anything Scruffy or Dirty

That laptop covered in fingerprints. A coffee cup with a crack. Muddy shoes. If it looks grubby to you, it’ll look ten times worse in a high-res photo. Yes I can photoshop them, but it’s taking away from the retouching that works better for your brand.

Better idea: give everything a quick clean, polish, or wipe before you pack it. Future you will be grateful.

4. The Sad Balloon

Balloons are brilliant for launches… but only if they’re fresh and full (and not too small). Nothing kills the mood quicker than a sad little balloon slumped in the corner.

Better idea: invest in big balloons (you can get them from amazon) or hire a balloon stylist like Balloonistry by Lady AJ (she’s local to my studio). It makes a massive difference.

5. The Clashing Notebook

That spiral-bound Tesco special you’ve been scribbling your shopping list in isn’t exactly brand-building. Props should complement your photos, not distract from them.

Better idea: bring clean, simple stationery that looks professional and fits your brand palette.

6. The Random Bottle of Cheap Prosecco

Celebration shots are always fun, but if the label screams “£3.99 corner shop special,” your photos will too.

Better idea: either de-label it or bring something you’d actually serve clients. The brand of the bottle doesn’t matter, but the look of it does. You can always bring empty bottles (so save any fancy ones for future use) and we’ll just add sparkling water and a touch of photoshop magic).

7. The “In Case It Works” Prop

We’ve all done it – thrown a random candle, picture frame, or dusty vase in the bag just in case. Spoiler: it won’t work. It’ll just look awkward in the background.

Better idea: curate your props with intention. A few strong, well-chosen items always beat a pile of randoms. But thats why we have a planning call before the shoot – to sort all of this out!

8. Food That Goes Off Fast

Sweaty cheese, wilting salad, or croissants that have been sitting in a paper bag all day? Not the vibe. The camera catches every detail — including the fact your “treat” looks like it’s seen better days.

Better idea: if food’s part of your brand, bring it fresh on the morning of your shoot. Or choose things that don’t wilt under studio lights.

Final Thought

Props can elevate your brand shoot but only if they’re intentional, clean, and camera-ready. Anything too small, scruffy, or random is better left at home. Stick to items that tell your story, have presence on camera, and feel like you. That’s when props stop being clutter… and start being powerful storytelling tools.

If you need a little help with Props That Don’t Work in Brand Shoots, or rather, what we’ll do instead, just give me a shout!