When you’re planning the photography for your big day, wedding photo props might not be the first thing that comes to mind – but they should be. Whether subtle or bold, props can add personality, creativity, and meaning to your images.
From umbrellas and smoke bombs to quirky décor and spontaneous venue details, the right wedding photo booth props transform simple moments into unforgettable visuals.
As couples become increasingly intentional about creating unique and creative wedding photos, prop-driven photography continues to rise in popularity. And as someone who has worked with thousands of weddings nationwide, we’ve seen firsthand how props elevate a photo from “lovely” to “jaw-dropping”.
That’s why Big Day Productions has created a complete guide on how to use wedding photo props – with practical suggestions, examples, and expert insights.
Why Wedding Photo Props Matter
Wedding photo props do more than decorate a scene – they help tell a story. Whether you’re using a vintage umbrella, colourful smoke bomb, or a playful sign at your photo booth, props add:
- Visual interest
- A sense of atmosphere or theme
- Personality and authenticity
- Creativity and movement
- Unexpected moments
Great props create images that feel alive, emotional, and fun – exactly what couples want in a modern wedding album.
1. Embracing Umbrellas for Romantic, Whimsical Shots
Umbrellas are one of the most underrated wedding photo props. They bring movement, symmetry, and charm, especially on rainy days.
Instead of worrying about the weather, embrace it.
Why umbrellas work beautifully:
- Create a soft, whimsical aesthetic
- Add symmetry and composition
- Work with natural light and reflections
- Turn rain into a romantic backdrop
Some of the most creative wedding photos happen when couples embrace the elements rather than fight them.
2. Creating Show-Stopping Photos with Smoke Bombs & Flares
Using smoke bombs and flares has become one of the biggest creative wedding photo ideas, and for good reason.
They add drama, colour, and energy in a way no other prop can.
Best ways to use them:
- During golden hour for glowing, saturated colour
- For fun, expressive couple portraits
- With your bridal party for big-impact group photos
- To add movement and depth to wide landscape shots
They’re bold, fun, and sure to become the “profile picture” moment of your wedding album.
3. Let Your Surroundings Become Natural Props
Sometimes the best wedding photo props are already right in front of you.
Photographers often use:
- Mirrors for creative reflections
- Windows for natural framing and soft lighting
- Architectural features like arches, staircases, or courtyards
- Nature, including trees, flowers, lakes, or mountains
- Venue objects like vintage furniture, chandeliers, or signage
These elements add authenticity and give your photos a sense of place.
4. Using Quirky Props for Personality & Fun
If you want photos that truly stand out, think outside the box.
Couples have incorporated:
- Tractors
- Vintage cars
- Neon signs
- Bicycles
- Balloons
- Vinyl records
- Champagne spray moments
These unexpected touches make your album feel unique and personal, especially when connected to your personality or story.
5. Wedding Photo Booth Props: Bringing the Fun Factor
Photo booths remain one of the most entertaining and affordable forms of wedding day entertainment.
The right props encourage guests to participate, laugh, and create their own memories.
Top wedding photo booth prop ideas:
- Giant glasses
- Retro hats & feather boas
- Themed signs
- Oversized emojis
- Sparkly crowns
- Monocles & moustaches
- Personalised couples’ props
- Floral frames and borders
A well-styled booth is always busy and always fun.
How Photobooth Props Can Save You Money
Having a booth is not just about entertainment – it’s also cost-effective.
Here’s why:
- It doubles as entertainment and guest favours
- It replaces the need for additional interactive vendors
- Digital booths reduce print costs
- Guests create keepsakes on their own
Plus, the photos your guests capture often become some of the most genuine and hilarious moments of the entire wedding.
Making Your Wedding Instagram-Worthy
Props naturally encourage guests to snap, share, and celebrate online.
To create highly shareable wedding moments:
- Use cohesive backdrops
- Add bold, themed props
- Provide flattering lighting
- Keep the booth open and visible
- Encourage group photos
These details help your wedding gain visibility on social media while giving guests something fun to talk about.
Tips for Displaying and Organising Your Props
Even the best props fall flat if guests don’t know they exist.
To encourage use:
- Create a prop station beside the photo booth
- Organise props by category
- Use baskets, stands, or pegboards
- Ensure everything is clearly visible
- Rotate props throughout the evening
When props are easy to grab, guests naturally engage.
Choosing a Photographer Who Understands Creative Props
Props only work if your photographer knows how to use them.
Look for a professional who:
- Has experience with creative props
- Can direct guests confidently
- Thinks outside the box
- Sees potential in the venue surroundings
A creative photographer brings every prop and every moment to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I ensure my props don’t overshadow the main subjects?
Choose props that complement rather than distract. For example, use subtle colours or smaller items that enhance the scene without drawing attention away from you and your partner.
2. Can props be rented, or should I purchase them?
Both options are viable depending on your budget and preference. Renting can be cost-effective, especially for larger items. However, purchasing props that hold personal significance can serve as cherished mementoes.
How Big Day Productions Can Enhance Your Prop-Driven Wedding Photos
Our rates are consistent across the UK, whether the wedding is in London, Edinburgh, Oxford, Manchester, or anywhere else. We keep our packages accessible while delivering quality, reliability, and consistency – something couples value when planning their photography.
We work with a carefully curated network of trusted wedding photographers and videographers nationwide, all sharing the same shooting style and creative ethos. That means whether you want smoke bomb portraits, umbrella romance, or fun, personality-filled images, you’ll receive a consistent, beautifully styled experience from any member of our team.
We’ve covered thousands of weddings, from rustic barns to glamorous manor houses. Our unique model blends the confidence of a national company with the personalised service of a local expert. And because we provide photographers with regular bookings, our rates stay lower than booking the same professionals privately, without compromising quality.
If wedding photo props, creativity, and standout images matter to you, Big Day Productions is designed to deliver exactly that. Contact us for more info.
