I’m constantly surprised by how different photos appear in front of my eyes from how they appear on my camera screen. Without fail, I’ll think that I have props placed close enough together and then I’ll review the photo and they’ll look miles apart. So this is definitely something that you have to adjust as you go.

The top photo shows all of my props displayed uncomfortably far apart from each other. The size of the book and the center position of it would give the impression that it’s the subject of the photo, but then what are all of those props doing? What purpose are they serving? It’s impossible to tell when they have no physical proximity to each other.

The bottom photo handles spacing better: the matchbox and candle are close together, which makes more sense given that’s what matchboxes are for. The weight of the photo is clustered around the right side with plenty of white space on the left side to balance it. Your eye knows where to focus and the props make sense in context.

Do: Play with Height Variation

This whole post has been basically about how to draw the eye to your photo’s subject, and this is no different. Playing with the height of objects can create a sense of depth within your photo, which keeps the eye going.

In the top photo, you can see the coffee mug and candle are both on the book, making them about the same height. While you do have some height variation with the flowers, book and then coffee and candle, the two tallest objects are right next to each other – so the eye is drawn there and stops. The coffee mug and candle being the same height (and both on top of the book) can feel awkward. First of all, the context doesn’t make sense. Why would a mug of coffee be right next to a candle, and why would both of those things be on top of a book at the same time? One or the other, but not both.

In the bottom photo, the height variation is more balanced and clear. With the coffee mug and candle on different planes, there’s no visual competition between them. Your eye can start at the bottom of the photo and be drawn upward. That feeling of the photo going on and on – that’s depth.

Whew – that was a lot! The most important thing to remember about photo styling is that it takes practice and persistence to figure out what you like and don’t like. Keep with it! If you’d like to see a list of my favorite styling props – check out my styling guide here!

Kristin Vermilya is an editorial photographer and – when not listening to true crime podcasts – educates bloggers and creative biz owners on how to build a stronger brand by conquering their photography fears. She takes the “DIY Hard” approach to life – messy and imperfect with the determination of Bruce Willis chasing down Hans Gruber.

WHERE TO FIND HER

Website |  Instagram | Photo Styling Guide