How to up your instagram game

Hello lovelies, today's post is a nice quick one!

I thought I would share some ideas of things you can use from around your house to add interest to instagram photos if you're wanting to share some more creative content. This is a list of all my failsafe, aesthetically pleasing props, that always help to add interest to an instagram photo, whether that be a flatlay or portrait photo.

1. Fruit

It's no secret that fruit is one of my all time favourite instagram props. There is such variety and there will always be a type of fruit that you could incorporate into a post that compliments the contents you're shooting. Whether that be a product shot, or a portrait. Fruit is a super inexpensive addition to your feed and posts. (Plus you can eat them afterwards, YUM)

2. Flowers

Another one of my go-to's. Flowers are just so damn photogenic and are perfect for a variety of purposes. They can add interest and texture to a flatlay, you could even hold some flowers above your flatlay setup and play with the focus on your camera to create some dimension. Otherwise you could always be holding them in outfit photos, have them in your hair, add them into your bag etc for a cute summery vibe. Also perfect to add a pop of colour to an otherwise plain photo.

3. Jewellery

Jewellery is something I will often add to my beauty product/still life shots as I love how you are able to play with lighting due to most jewels being very smooth, shiny and reflective. I think it adds a cool element to a lot of photos. Another tip, is when taking #ootd photos, don't forget to also take some detail shots, this could include earrings, rings, etc. It can add a bit of diversity to your feed and prevent it feeling too repetitive because there are photos from different angles and perspectives!

4. Perfume

Perfume's are pricey and often come in the prettiest packaging, so why not show them off on your instagram. I love the way perfume's photograph and they are always a very welcome addition to any flatlay. I also love perfume's in interior shots. A lot of my photos of my bedroom feature perfumes as an accent piece. Don't forget that they often come in really cute boxes too!!

5. Clothing

Okay, yes, I know this is an obvious one for flatlays and outfit photos. But have you ever thought of using clothing as a backdrop for a more close up 'flatlay' or product shot?? I love the silky texture of this satin top and by adding it underneath a few props, it adds another layer to the photo and makes it look oh so luxurious. So have a look in your closet for some cool patterns and textures and get creative with layering for your insta product shots!

6. Packaging

Following on from my comment about perfume bottles often having cute packaging, so do most other things you buy!! I utilise everything, especially when I buy something a little more expensive. I have a mini dior paper bag, a chanel box, and acne studios box as well as many clothing tags from cool brands (comme des garcons, acne, josh goot etc.) Use these items in your posts. They look so great in flatlays and can add a luxe touch to your photos!!

7. Beauty products

Last but definitely not least, one of my favourite things to photograph still life images of.. some good old beauty products. Not only are they fun to wear, but once again, the packaging is often super aesthetically pleasing and it's another more affordable way to add some interest and a bit of luxe to an instagram post. I for one can not bring myself to buy anything other than beauty products from luxury brands, but you still get the beautiful packaging and gift boxes or bags for a fraction of the price, plus the makeup is always amazing quality!! I love using beauty in my photos, because not only is it pretty to look at, but you can also share recommendations and opinions with your audience, and it's often a great way to start a conversation with them.

Thankyou for reading today's post, I really hope it was somewhat helpful!! Don't forget to head over to my instagram (@s.imonette) to check out plenty of examples of how I photograph and utilise all of these items. I think all of my posts feature at LEAST one of these items, if not more!

Until next time, Sim xx