I just recently did a fun photoshoot at the studio and it occurred to me just how fun it is to add a prop to mix.  In this case I had my buddy Gonzo bring his welding goggles for a funshop I was hosting at The Light Loft.  I had seen him working in his backyard with them and instantly I wanted to take a picture.  The results were super fun.  I think props serve a couple purposes.  One is the obvious, which is that they just add that little something extra to the shot.  Two is that it gives the subject something to actually use to help them go outside of their comfort zone (and Gonzo’s comfort zone is already pretty broad).  Behind the goggles, Gonzo could act anyway he likes…almost like he is “in character” and what that character does is completely up to him.  So the next time that you are in front of a camera or behind one, consider adding a prop to the mix and I think you will be surprised with how fun the shooting will become.