When considering buying props for my photography studio, I knew I wanted everything to be quality. I did not want to buy cheap stuff that would be falling apart, breaking, or that just wouldn’t last and I would be replacing before I could get a handful of photoshoots out of them.

All my props, from wraps, backdrops, headbands, bonnets, teddies, baskets, bowls, the list just goes on, are all from vendors who make these items specifically for photography. I am part of a number of networks exclusively for photographers where I have access to many prop vendors who make these items for us. They know our exact needs, as some of them are photographers themselves and know what is in demand. There are vendors that make only headbands, some make just wraps and props, and some sell a whole range of products that cater to photographers’ needs.

Many items are special orders, and I need to wait for them to finally be available. Like so many other photographers, once they become available, these items can fly off the shelves in literally minutes and are all of a sudden sold out.

The vendors I purchase from are from all around the world, and it is wonderful to get to know people from all over, form relationships, and make new friends, especially when they’ve got such charming accents! My beautiful handmade flokatis come all the way from Australia. One of my favorite headband suppliers is located just down in sunny Florida, and all her pieces are so dainty yet exquisite that they look gorgeous on every newborn baby girl. I get great bowls and baskets from Texas and Canada. Truthfully, I get props from all around the world!

Thankfully we have a great mail system where packages arrive quickly, and before you know it, I’ve got some amazing photography props at my front doorstep waiting to be unboxed. The only little problem is these items can be quite pricey, and shopping for photography props can become addictive. I guess every photographer has this dilemma: do I indulge in a new handbag for myself, or do I buy a new prop for my next upcoming newborn photoshoot? The struggle is real!