You’ve thought out your whole day: the clothes, the shoes, the hair, the cake, the party, the photos…. Wait a sec. Have you REALLY thought about your photography? Not hiring the photographer, or your smile…but what are you going to be doing in your photos?

It doesn’t matter if it’s a milestone birthday, engagement, wedding, or back to school party. Photos are important, and you want them to look fantastic.

Think about this: the actual photography shots are just a blip on the radar of the photographer who is there to capture YOUR day, YOUR way. So here’s an idea: make it fun! There has been a huge increase in the use of props in photography, and I’m absolutely loving the shots that come out with props.

There is so much that you can do with a few simple items….

1 Umbrellas

Do you live near water? Love the rain? What about using some bright, color-popped umbrellas to add some interest to your pictures. If you’re not a fan of functionality, you could use a parasol for some great vintage vibes.

2 Signs

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these. What a cute way to capture the moment than with a sign that reads ‘happy’ or ‘30’?

3 Pets

Let’s face it, your pets are your family, and pictures with your fur baby will make some great memories. If your pet isn’t leash trained, these shots may have to be limited to your pet’s abode, but what’s a little travel for a lifetime of memories?

4 Balloons

I saw a picture recently of a bride and groom with a HUGE bouquet of bright red balloons, and I fell in love. Balloons give photos a light, happy quality, which is perfect for weddings. You can really play with color, too. Imagine a rainbow theme with a myriad of colored balloons! Those pictures would be BRILLIANT.

And if you’re doing your little one’s first birthday? Tie some balloons on their special chair for a fun touch that will make for some unforgettable pictures.

5 Bubbles

You’re going to need assistance with this one (or a bubble machine), but having filmy bubbles floating across your pictures adds a touch of whimsy, and a whole lot of fun.

Don’t forget a shot of everyone blowing their bubbles at the photographer!

6 Hats and Fascinators

Sure, you can wear them just for the part of the party where candles are involved, but if you’re inside, some might frown on that. But for pictures? What a great way to capture your individualist spirit! Get the guys some fedoras, and have the ladies don a fascinator and you’ll be all set to go!

7 Cameras

I’ve always loved photos of people ‘taking’ photos. They make great semi-candid shots, and are even more entertaining if you have a vintage or antique camera. How awesome would it be to have a shot of you snapping a picture of your awesome par-tay?

About the author: Brea Gunn writes about Hudson Valley weddings and shares inspiration from New York weddings .