Prop Styling as a Career: How to Get Started

FROM MERCHANDISER TO PHOTO STYLIST

After 11 years as a visual merchandiser and window display artist, I needed something new. One day I received a call from Jeff Schear, a Chicago-based food and beverage photographer collaborating with Kraft Foods (now Kraft-Heinz) to produce brand images for Kraft Mac and Cheese.

LUCKY BREAK

Jeff contacted me to see if I could provide props for his upcoming shoot. From a merchandising perspective, I was familiar with props, using them in window displays and retail setups throughout the city. However, I had to approach propping differently in a photo studio environment, where the space is much more limited and controlled.

Following our initial discussion in which Jeff outlined his objectives and needs, I thoughtfully collected the essential props to create the desired visuals for Kraft. This included placemats in vibrant primary colors, piles of clean, white bowls and plates, and fresh, attractive produce to provide the "healthy balance" the brand requires.

After spending two full days shooting at Kraft's corporate headquarters in Northbrook, I was captivated. A fresh enthusiasm was kindled, and I found a new drive to delve deeper into photo styling and perhaps even make prop styling a career.

This meant searching for other brands that needed a stylist, connecting and building relationships with multiple photographers, and working toward creating a new body of work for my portfolio. This all takes patience and time (nine years and counting)!

Photo Credit Jeff Schear; Food Styling: Janice Stahl

PROP STYLING AS A CAREER: HOW TO BUILD A PORTFOLIO

I had NO professional images of any prop styling work, aside from the noodles :) This is when I realized I needed to put a test shoot together.

What is a test shoot? A test shoot in photo styling refers to a collaborative, low-pressure photoshoot designed to experiment with ideas, build portfolios, or test out concepts. It often involves photographers, stylists, models, makeup artists, and sometimes set designers working together without the constraints of a paying client or commercial project. Test shoots are essential for building confidence, showcasing talent, and preparing for high-stakes commercial projects.

Purpose of a Test Shoot

Portfolio Building: Allows photographers, stylists, and other creatives to create high-quality content for their portfolios.
Experimentation: Provides a space to try new styles, techniques, or concepts without the risk of disappointing a client.
Team Collaboration: Offers an opportunity to network and build relationships with other creatives in the industry.
Skill Development: Helps participants refine their skills, whether in styling, lighting, photography, or posing.

FIRST TEST SHOOT

After getting married, I was inspired by my beautiful new collection of dishes and tabletop pieces. My experience working at a floral design studio had introduced me to incredibly talented designers like Lauren Brescia, and together, we brainstormed a vibrant, creative concept that Jeff graciously agreed to photograph.

We all volunteered our time and contributed our own funds to provide the fresh flowers, food, and props necessary to make this shoot possible. This collaboration resulted in breathtaking images we could all use in our portfolios and on social media, highlighting our talents.

Nine years later, I remain proud of the beautiful content we produced—it became a foundational element in starting my career as a prop and photo stylist. As my portfolio grew, I kept adding more images to my website, illustrating the progression of my work.

Photo Credit Jeff Schear; Floral Styling: Lauren Brescia; Love, Sugar and Grace pastries

SECOND TEST SHOOT

Another day brings a new concept. Collaborating once more with the talented Lauren Brescia, we developed a concept for Chicago bakery Love, Sugar, and Grace, a rising pastry brand needing content. Julie Dietz generously contributed her time to capture stunning photographs still used on Grace's website today.

Photo Credit Julie Dietz; Floral and Prop Styling: Lauren Brescia; Love, Sugar and Grace pastries

I frequently receive inquiries from students curious about how I began my career, or from professionals considering a career change. I hope this post sheds some light on how my journey transitioned from visual merchandising to prop and photo styling. I STILL work with Jeff regularly, and have had the pleasure of doing test shoots with many photographers and artists over the years.

As I did with my "first" career as a visual merchandiser, I fully immersed myself in the history and intricacies of display to gain a deeper understanding of the industry and refine my craft. The same dedication applied to styling—countless hours spent studying, researching, networking, and working hard to master my skills.

Building lasting relationships is crucial; never burn bridges. Be kind and collaborative with everyone. Put in the effort, even on weekends and days off. If you have a goal, remain focused and patient. Consistency is essential. Many of my clients have repeatedly contacted me throughout my 23-year career because I am consistent, transparent in my process, and dependable. And that is why I love what I do!