As a food photographer, the right props are essential to creating visually stunning images that tell a story. The perfect prop can elevate a simple dish into a work of art, making your food photos stand out and adding depth to the composition. While some photographers prefer to work with a prop stylist, I’ve always enjoyed sourcing my own props. It allows me to connect with each shoot in a more personal way. Over the years, I’ve found several fantastic places to source unique and functional props for food photography. In this guide, I’ll share the best sources and tips on how to build a prop collection that fits your unique style.
Essential Stores for Food Photography Props: A Guide to Building Your Prop Collection
When starting out in food photography or looking to upgrade your prop collection, it’s crucial to have access to stores that provide both quality and versatility. Your props, whether it’s tableware, linens, or unique accents, can elevate your photos to a professional level. Luckily, several popular retailers offer affordable, stylish, and high-quality options, which can serve as the foundation for your food photography setups. From rustic charm to minimalist elegance, here are some of the must-have stores for food photography props that every food stylist should consider.
Crate & Barrel and CB2: Foundational Pieces for Every Shoot
For food photographers, a solid base collection of plates, bowls, and serveware is essential to create versatile setups for different types of shoots. Crate & Barrel has been a go-to store for food stylists due to its wide selection of classic, timeless pieces that are perfect for any food photography project. Whether you're working with rustic dishes like stews and soups or modern food such as sushi or intricate salads, Crate & Barrel’s collection provides items that suit every aesthetic. Their dishware comes in various textures, colors, and finishes, offering endless opportunities for styling.
While Crate & Barrel is perfect for essential tableware, CB2, which is also under the same parent company, is a great option for more minimalist and modern needs. CB2 is renowned for its sleek glassware, clean lines, and simple, yet elegant designs that add sophistication to any food shoot. Their minimalist style creates a clean backdrop that allows the food to be the star of the image, without distractions. As you build your collection, it’s best to focus on a few quality sets rather than over-purchasing. This approach helps you keep your collection streamlined, functional, and free from clutter, allowing you to mix and match easily for different food styling projects.
Amazon: A Last-Minute Lifesaver for Quick Prop Shopping
Though it might not be the first place food photographers think of when sourcing props, Amazon offers a wealth of options that can be incredibly useful in a pinch. If you're working on a tight deadline or need a specific item such as kitchen tools, glasses, linens, or small gadgets, Amazon's vast inventory and rapid shipping make it a practical choice. With thousands of options available, you can usually find exactly what you need—whether it’s an unusual vintage-style jar or a set of elegant napkins for a shoot.
The key to shopping for props on Amazon is being mindful of quality. While the platform is known for offering a wide array of affordable items, not all of them are made to last or photograph well. To ensure the items you choose will look great in your photos, always check customer reviews and ratings. Reviews can help you determine whether the materials used are sturdy and if the colors and textures match the photos provided on the listing. Amazon is a great resource for those last-minute prop needs or for when you're starting out and building your collection on a budget.
West Elm: Stylish Decorative Touches with a Higher Price Tag
For more decorative, statement pieces, West Elm offers a selection of props that can add an extra layer of style and flair to your food photography. Known for its chic and contemporary designs, West Elm features a range of products like elegant candles, textured bowls, vintage-inspired trays, and decorative vases. These pieces work wonders as background accents or when you need to add a touch of personality to a minimalist scene.
While West Elm is known for its sleek designs and high-end aesthetics, it can be on the pricier side. However, if you keep an eye on their seasonal sales or clearance sections, you can snag beautiful props at a more affordable price. It’s worth investing in a few key decorative pieces from West Elm if you want to elevate your work with stylish touches that stand out. Their unique range of items can also serve as versatile props across various shoots, adding a sense of luxury without overwhelming the food itself.
Specialty Shops for Unique, High-End Props
For those who are willing to invest in high-quality, artisanal pieces, specialty prop shops are the perfect destinations to find unique items that will elevate your food photography game. These retailers offer handmade, bespoke props that you won’t find in mass-produced stores, allowing you to create one-of-a-kind compositions. These props are often crafted with exceptional materials, making them ideal for upscale food shoots or those that require a distinct look.
One of the key benefits of shopping at specialty stores is the ability to find rare and unique props, such as vintage glassware, hand-thrown ceramic bowls, or wooden trays carved by artisans. These pieces tend to be more expensive than typical mass-produced items but can significantly enhance the mood and atmosphere of your food photography setups. High-end props add an artisanal, personal touch to your photos, making them stand out in a competitive industry where everyone is trying to capture the most captivating image.
Additionally, these types of props allow for more creativity and customization, as they often come in different shapes, textures, and colors. The quality of these items is generally unparalleled, giving your photos a more polished and refined look. When investing in high-end pieces, it’s important to carefully select items that you know will work well with a variety of food styling projects, ensuring that they’ll be versatile enough to use in multiple shoots.
Local Boutiques and Flea Markets: One-of-a-Kind Finds
While large retailers offer convenience and variety, don’t underestimate the power of local boutiques and flea markets when it comes to finding unique food photography props. Local shops and antique markets often carry vintage kitchenware, unique textiles, and rare decorative items that can bring authenticity and charm to your photos. Whether you’re hunting for an old-fashioned coffee pot, antique silverware, or quirky bowls, these shops often carry treasures that you won’t find anywhere else.
Flea markets, in particular, are a goldmine for those who enjoy the thrill of the hunt. You can find interesting pieces that add character to your setups, such as tarnished plates, weathered trays, or handwoven baskets. The best part is that these props tend to be affordable, allowing you to add distinctive elements to your collection without breaking the bank. Scouring these markets regularly can help you build a treasure trove of eclectic props that bring a sense of history and individuality to your food photos.
Building a Balanced Prop Collection
When assembling your food photography prop collection, it’s important to strike a balance between classic pieces that will serve as the foundation for most of your work and unique, statement-making items that add flair and personality. Start by investing in high-quality, versatile basics like plates, bowls, and serveware from trusted retailers like Crate & Barrel and CB2. These pieces will serve as the backbone of your collection. Then, expand your range with items from Amazon for quick fixes or unique finds from stores like West Elm and specialty shops for decorative accents.
Ultimately, your prop collection should reflect your personal style while also offering versatility for different types of food photography projects. By combining timeless essentials with standout pieces, you’ll create a prop collection that supports your creative vision and helps you produce stunning, memorable food photography.
Food52: Quirky and Elegant Kitchenware for Food Photography
When it comes to adding a dash of creativity and elegance to your food photography, Food52 stands out as an exceptional place to discover unique kitchenware and accessories. Known for its eclectic and artistic collection, Food52 offers a range of quirky, yet sophisticated kitchen props. From marble egg cups to intricately designed copper platters, their diverse range of items can effortlessly inject character into your food styling setups.
The beauty of shopping at Food52 lies in its ability to offer functional pieces with a touch of whimsy. Whether you're photographing a delicate dessert or a hearty meal, their inventory includes pieces that can complement any dish, adding a dash of charm or elegance. The problem, however, is that it’s easy to get carried away in the beauty of their collection, so it’s important to approach your shopping strategically. Stick to your list and focus on purchasing props that will add value to your overall style rather than overindulging in every new trend that catches your eye.
A key tip for food photographers is to focus on buying pieces that are both beautiful and practical. For instance, Food52 offers delightful small accessories, like hand-painted plates, vibrant textiles, and whimsical glassware, which can act as both background elements and essential styling components. The artistic vibe of Food52’s kitchenware will bring your food images to life, making them stand out in a world full of standard and overly-posed food photographs.
Batten Home: Affordable Glassware and Modern Accents for Budget-Friendly Styling
If you’re building a food photography prop collection on a budget but still want modern, minimalist glassware and accents, Batten Home is an ideal destination. Known for its clean, functional designs, Batten Home’s offerings fit seamlessly into a wide range of food styling themes. Whether you’re capturing elegant drinks, simple meals, or complex culinary creations, their collection of glassware, serving pieces, and trays are designed to enhance the beauty of your food without overshadowing it.
Batten Home’s collection stands out for its ability to combine simplicity with style. The brand’s pieces are often understated, with delicate lines and subtle color palettes that bring a contemporary flair to food photography. They provide everything from sleek wine glasses to modern decanters, ensuring that your beverage styling is just as well-executed as the food itself. Additionally, the price point at Batten Home makes it a great choice for photographers looking to build their prop collection without overspending. Unlike many luxury stores, Batten Home offers affordable options without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal of your photos.
If you’re new to food photography and looking for essential glassware and modern accents, Batten Home’s practical pieces offer an excellent balance between style and function. These props are particularly suited for contemporary food setups, where the design is as important as the food being photographed.
Spartan Shop: High-End Artisan Pieces for Elevated Food Photography
For food photographers who are willing to invest in high-quality, artisanal props, Spartan Shop provides a curated selection of unique, handcrafted pieces that can elevate any food styling project. Spartan Shop specializes in working with independent artists to bring beautifully crafted ceramics, glassware, and linens into the spotlight. While the prices are generally higher, the items found here are built to last and are often truly one-of-a-kind.
The beauty of Spartan Shop’s inventory lies in its artistry. Each piece tells a story, often showcasing intricate details, hand-applied glazes, and organic shapes that bring character and sophistication to any shoot. Whether you’re seeking a stunning ceramic bowl for a salad or a bespoke glass pitcher for a refreshing drink, Spartan Shop offers elegant, artisanal props that can make your food styling stand out. These props are ideal for high-end food shoots or any photography project that requires that extra touch of elegance.
Although the price point can be steep, investing in high-quality pieces from Spartan Shop will reward you with long-lasting, timeless props that elevate your work to the next level. If you have a particular shoot in mind that demands extraordinary props or want to add a few signature items to your collection, Spartan Shop is a destination worth exploring. Their collection is particularly fitting for photographers who specialize in upscale dining, fine dining, or editorial food shoots where every detail matters.
Hay: Bright, Modern Pieces for Contemporary Food Styling
For a modern, minimalist aesthetic in your food photography, Hay is a must-visit store that specializes in clean lines and vibrant design elements. Known for its modern and functional approach, Hay offers a variety of kitchenware, glassware, and home décor pieces that are perfect for contemporary food setups. Whether you're capturing a casual brunch scene or an elegant dinner setting, Hay’s modern pieces can be used to enhance the look and feel of your food photography.
What makes Hay unique is its ability to mix simplicity with bold color and design. Their collection features everything from brightly colored pitchers and minimalistic trays to geometric plates and glasses, all designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind. One of the most exciting aspects of shopping at Hay is that their product lineup regularly changes, ensuring that you have access to fresh, on-trend items that fit the current mood or style of your photography.
If you're someone who enjoys keeping up with contemporary design trends, Hay’s rotating collection allows you to inject modern energy into your food photography setups. Their pieces are ideal for photographers who prefer clean, minimalist environments where the food is the focal point, but the props add an undeniable charm. With Hay’s pieces, you can easily create vibrant, contemporary food scenes that resonate with modern sensibilities.
Unique Handmade Items from Independent Artists
For food photographers looking to add a personal touch to their work, sourcing unique handmade items from independent artists can bring a whole new level of artistry to your props collection. These one-of-a-kind pieces are often not found in larger retail stores, and their distinctiveness can help your photos stand out in a sea of similar-looking food images. Handmade props, from ceramic plates and bowls to handwoven baskets and artisan glassware, bring a sense of personality and craftsmanship to your setups.
While these items are generally more expensive and harder to find, the investment is well worth it. Supporting independent artisans not only allows you to find unique, high-quality props but also gives your photos an authentic, personal touch. Many independent artists create pieces with a story, meaning each prop carries its own narrative, adding layers of meaning to your food styling.
The beauty of sourcing from independent artists is that you can often find pieces that reflect the culture, region, or artistry of the creator. Whether you’re shooting rustic farmhouse dishes or sophisticated modern cuisine, these props will add depth and authenticity to your work. By adding handmade elements to your food photography, you can differentiate your work from others and showcase your unique perspective and style.
Building a Diverse Prop Collection
Building a well-rounded and versatile prop collection requires a blend of affordable essentials and high-end statement pieces. Stores like Food52, Batten Home, and Hay offer modern, functional props that are perfect for creating various setups, while Spartan Shop and independent artists provide high-end, artisanal items that can elevate the aesthetic of your photos. By carefully selecting pieces that resonate with your style and complement your food photography, you’ll be able to create stunning, well-styled images that tell a unique story.
As you curate your prop collection, remember to balance practicality with artistry. Always think about how each piece will work with different types of food and settings, and make sure your props enhance the subject rather than compete with it. Whether you're shooting a casual meal or a gourmet dish, the right props will help you capture the essence of the food and tell a compelling visual story that engages your audience.
By exploring the wide range of stores available, from quirky places like Food52 to sophisticated spots like Spartan Shop, you’ll find the perfect mix of props to bring your food photography to life.
Janaki Larsen Ceramics: Stunning Handcrafted Pottery for Food Photography
For food photographers who appreciate the beauty of handcrafted pottery, Janaki Larsen Ceramics is a must-know name. Renowned for her stunning dark glazes and elegant designs, Janaki's pieces are the epitome of sophistication, making them an excellent choice for food styling. Her ceramic pieces often feature bold yet refined tones, with smooth, polished finishes that elevate any food scene. The dark, rich glazes she uses can add depth and contrast to your photos, especially when paired with vibrant or delicate dishes.
One of the things that make Janaki Larsen’s ceramics so desirable is their scarcity. Her online shop frequently updates, and many of her pieces sell out quickly. Because of this, securing one of her creations requires quick action. If you're fortunate enough to grab one of her works, it’s sure to become a standout element in your prop collection. Janaki’s pottery, with its combination of timeless elegance and understated luxury, can be used to create a visual narrative around any type of cuisine, from fine dining to rustic, home-cooked meals.
While purchasing from her collection requires a bit of effort and quick decision-making, the results are well worth it. Janaki Larsen’s ceramics can become a signature style element in your food photography, providing the timeless, sophisticated touch that enhances the overall visual appeal of your images. Whether you're shooting an intimate meal or a grand feast, her handcrafted pieces are sure to make your food the focal point, while still adding a hint of artistry.
Miro Made This: Organic and Earthy Bowls for a Natural Aesthetic
Another artist whose work has greatly influenced my food photography is Miro Made This. Known for their handmade ceramics, especially bowls, Miro Made This brings an earthy, organic aesthetic to food styling. Their pieces are perfect for shoots that require a more natural, rustic feel. The unique shapes and earthy tones of the bowls create a beautiful contrast with food, bringing out textures and colors that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What makes Miro Made This truly special is the combination of functionality and artistry. Each bowl is designed with an organic, flowing shape that embodies the natural forms found in nature, making them ideal for more rustic or earth-toned shoots. These pieces evoke a sense of calm and groundedness, which is perfect for food photography that wants to emphasize a connection to the earth or a back-to-basics culinary approach.
I recently purchased one of their pieces and am eagerly awaiting its arrival. These handmade bowls will surely add warmth and authenticity to my photos. They’re especially great for photographing ingredients like vegetables, grains, and simple dishes where the focus is on nature and simplicity. The soft, muted tones of Miro Made This ceramics make them versatile, allowing them to blend seamlessly into a wide range of food styling themes, from farm-to-table spreads to hearty comfort food shoots.
Civil Stoneware: Affordable Matte Ceramics for Stunning Photography
For food photographers who love the look of matte ceramics but are on a budget, Civil Stoneware offers an excellent solution. Known for their high-quality matte black clay pieces, Civil Stoneware creates dramatic yet understated pieces that bring a modern, minimalist vibe to your food styling. Their ceramics are ideal for photographers who want to experiment with a sleek, minimalist approach without compromising on quality or design.
What sets Civil Stoneware apart is the affordability of their pieces. While many other high-end ceramic artists create beautiful items, the prices can be prohibitive for photographers just starting out or those with a limited budget. Civil Stoneware provides a more cost-effective alternative without sacrificing the artistry and elegance that make matte ceramics so desirable in food photography. Their matte black clay body offers a contrast to the more common glossy ceramics, giving your food photos an extra level of sophistication.
These pieces work beautifully in any food photography setup, especially when you want to highlight textures or make vibrant colors pop. The understated matte finish provides a muted backdrop that draws attention to the food, making it the focal point of the photograph. Whether you're capturing a striking dessert or a beautiful vegetable arrangement, Civil Stoneware’s matte ceramics are versatile and offer a dramatic, modern look that suits a variety of culinary compositions.
Monsoon Pottery: Handcrafted Ceramics with Functionality and Style
If you’re seeking pieces that blend both functionality and aesthetics, Monsoon Pottery is an excellent brand to consider. Created by the talented artist Danielle, Monsoon Pottery offers beautiful, handcrafted ceramics that are perfect for both everyday use and food styling. From mugs to plates and bowls, her collection provides a mix of practicality and style that can work across a wide range of photography projects.
One of the standout features of Monsoon Pottery is its ability to seamlessly merge form and function. Danielle’s ceramics have a tactile quality that makes them ideal for use in food photography. Whether you're styling a casual brunch scene, a cozy coffee moment, or an elegant dinner party, her pieces offer the right balance of charm and utility. I personally own a mug from her collection and use it regularly—it's both aesthetically pleasing and practical, which is the ideal combination for food photography.
For photographers who appreciate pieces that are both beautiful and useful, Monsoon Pottery’s creations are perfect. Her work brings a sense of warmth and authenticity to food photography, making it feel both inviting and homey. If you’re in Chicago, visiting her studio during open house events is a great way to see her creations firsthand and get a closer look at the artistry behind each piece.
Sandbox Ceramics: Playful, Whimsical Pottery for Modern Photography
For photographers who want to add a sense of fun and playfulness to their work, Sandbox Ceramics offers whimsical, modern pottery that’s perfect for bright, airy food photography setups. Known for their unique designs that balance whimsy and modernity, Sandbox Ceramics provides a wide range of pieces that can add charm and personality to your food styling.
What makes Sandbox Ceramics stand out is the boldness and uniqueness of their designs. Their pottery feels fresh and youthful, with playful shapes and vibrant colors that create a lighthearted tone in food photography. These pieces are great for capturing fun, casual meals or desserts, where the mood is more relaxed and lively. Their modern aesthetic allows for a range of possibilities, from minimalist settings to more eclectic, experimental compositions.
Sandbox Ceramics pieces are especially suited for photographers who want to infuse their work with a sense of fun and creativity. The whimsical nature of their designs adds a layer of joy to any food photo, making it feel engaging and visually stimulating. These pieces are a perfect addition for anyone looking to experiment with bold, eye-catching props that create a visual impact in their food styling.
Antique Shopping and Travel Treasures: Collecting Unique Props from Around the World
In addition to shopping at well-known ceramicists and online stores, some of the most meaningful and unique props come from antique shops or travel finds. Whether it's a vintage plate discovered in Paris or a handwoven textile found in Morocco, these items often carry a story and history that adds a deeper layer of meaning to your food photography. Antique shopping and collecting treasures from your travels can lead to an incredibly unique and personal collection of props.
The beauty of antique props lies in their history. Each item tells a story, from the craftsmanship behind the piece to its journey through time. Whether it's an old porcelain plate, a hand-carved wooden tray, or an antique pitcher, these props provide an opportunity to bring history into your food photography. Not only do these props look stunning in photos, but they also create a connection between the past and present, allowing you to weave narratives into your food styling.
Travel finds, in particular, can bring an exotic, worldly touch to your compositions. Items like handmade baskets, woven fabrics, and rustic pottery add a sense of adventure to your photos, making them feel more global and culturally rich. If you're willing to invest the time and effort into antique shopping and travel collecting, you’ll build a prop collection that’s as unique as your photography style, and these pieces will undoubtedly stand out in your work.
Curating a Diverse Collection of Food Photography Props
Creating a diverse and effective prop collection for food photography means finding the perfect balance between affordability, artistry, and uniqueness. Artists like Janaki Larsen Ceramics and Miro Made This offer stunning, handcrafted pieces that elevate the artistry of your work, while brands like Civil Stoneware and Monsoon Pottery provide affordable options that maintain a high level of quality and style. Additionally, stores like Sandbox Ceramics bring a sense of fun and playfulness to your compositions, while antique finds add personal, historical depth to your food photography.
By curating a mix of both modern and artisanal props, you’ll be able to create a wide variety of food styling setups. Whether you're photographing a casual meal or a sophisticated dining experience, the right props can help convey the story behind the food, bringing your photography to life. Don’t forget that the most memorable food photos are often those that incorporate props with meaning, charm, and character. With a thoughtful mix of pieces from various sources, you’ll have the flexibility and creativity to make each food photography session truly unique.
Final Thoughts:
Curating a prop collection for food photography is not just about purchasing items—it’s about creating a visual language that speaks to your unique aesthetic and style. Over time, your collection will evolve, as your photographic style and creative preferences shift. It’s crucial to approach prop selection with intention, investing in pieces that not only enhance the visual appeal of your photos but also serve as tools that help tell a story.
When building your prop collection, it's easy to get distracted by the endless variety of items available online and in stores. However, it’s important to remember that quality always trumps quantity. While it can be tempting to buy every quirky item you come across, a thoughtfully curated collection will always have more impact than a random assortment of pieces. Focus on buying items that have lasting appeal and can be used in multiple contexts. Versatile props, like simple ceramics or minimalist glassware, can be dressed up or down depending on the project, saving both time and money in the long run.
Additionally, sourcing props from both high-end designer shops and independent artisans allows you to blend both the elegance of mass-produced items and the unique charm of handmade pieces. Artists like Janaki Larsen or Miro Made This offer rare, handcrafted items that carry a sense of artistry and exclusivity—pieces that transform a standard shoot into something truly special. On the other hand, retailers like Crate & Barrel and CB2 offer dependable, everyday items that are easy to work with and won’t break the bank. Balancing these two types of sources will allow you to create an eclectic yet cohesive collection that can accommodate various styles of food photography.
Also, don’t forget the joy of hunting for props in local antique stores or while traveling. These pieces often have personal stories and histories, which can elevate the emotional impact of your photos. Incorporating items with a unique backstory or cultural significance can give your images an added layer of depth and authenticity.
As you continue to grow your prop collection, remember that the most important thing is to stay true to your vision. Take your time to find pieces that resonate with your style, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Over time, your collection will become an extension of your creative identity, enabling you to shoot with confidence and versatility. With a thoughtfully assembled set of props, your food photography will not only stand out but will also tell stories that resonate with your audience on a deeper level.
