This is what I pack for an outdoor photoshoot

I have always enjoyed photographing still-life photos outdoors. I like to see nature as my studio space. I just pick an interesting location that speaks to me. I have my favorite places I visit regularly and I am also looking for beautiful new spots to photograph every time I walk or bike somewhere.

I always have the location in mind before I have an outdoor photoshoot. It helps me plan what to pack. The location inspires me a lot when I choose what I pack for an outdoor photoshoot. For example, different things work better on the beach than they would in a forest. Umbrellas and swimwear are more likely suited to the beach environment. However, most of the props can be used in many different places. That’s why I have a good selection of plates, cups, and vases to choose from.

Some of the ceramics I use as props.

Baskets that are often in my photos.

I enjoy planning what kind of settings I can create for special places. The colors, textures, and forms of the props get inspired by the surrounding atmosphere. A white tablecloth works beautifully in green and dark nature. In a rather light environment, like a beach where there is a lot of white sand, I would choose something else than white props. Darker colors create contrast and make your props pop out. And that is what you want, your props to be seen. Together with the location the props create a beautiful photo.

Different props are packed into a basket.

I always aim for dialogue between the props and the outdoors. I ask myself what I can bring or add to make this place feel special. A table with a chair is a safe option that works almost every time. In many places, the interesting things are up higher, like blooming trees. In order to capture these special features of the place, the props need to be placed higher than the ground. In this case, the table is great. A picnic towel is another great option. That’s on the ground level, but when the interesting things are more or less on the same level, it is an easy option to take with you to an outdoor photoshoot. In addition, it’s way easier to pack and lighter to carry.

As much as I would love to take all kinds of props to the location and choose there what works and what doesn’t, I need to make these decisions earlier. It is important to take into consideration the accessibility and my limits in carrying stuff around. Even a lightweight table starts to be very heavy when you have to carry it around the city. Hardly ever is the table my only prop, so I need to add other props to the load as well.

Every time I shoot outdoors, I like to pack some kind of textile with me. That can be a tablecloth, picnic towel, pillow, or linen napkin. The fabric brings softness and different textures to the photo. Depending on the location, I might pack props that describe the location and the story I am conveying. These can be books, spoons, sunglasses, hats, and other small items that support the main subject. And why not make them your main objects too while you shoot?

Different fabrics and baskets create lovely textures together with nature. The colors of the moss and rocks repeats in props.

I like to pack the props into baskets or woven bags. That way, I can use them as well in the photo. I wrap my textile props around items that break easily and pack them so that they don’t move much when I travel. Other things than props I pack into my backpack. Such as a camera and extra lens if needed, a tripod, and little things like matches if I have candles as props.

My props were packed into a basket. I was already on my way home when I noticed how lovely the light was in this spot. I literally dropped my carryings on the ground and then took a quick photo. It looks like a staged photo but it isn’t. So when you think about what to photograph, keep in mind that every moment can be worth taking the photo.