I spent almost six months living in Paris while I was in college and I am sure it won’t surprise you to hear how beautiful it is. Exploring the city was a daily occurrence and it didn’t take long to discover my favorite places to visit, shop and eat. Paris is an ideal place for a photographer and while we can’t always be there, we can draw inspiration into our studios and photo sessions from the gorgeous City of Lights.
1. Outdoor cafes
It may seem cliché, but outdoor cafes are a huge part of Paris. Taking your time to enjoy your pastry and coffee is a way of life. There is no rush and no to-go cups. This simple and classic white cup and saucer set is the perfect accessory for your photo session. Whether your clients are in the studio, at their own home or having a picnic on location for your session, you can be sure to bring the feeling of relaxation and enjoyment into their images. $59.95 for a set of 4
2. Luxury
I may or may not have spent more time than I should have browsing in stores that were known for their luxury items (and completely out of my budget). Bringing luxury into your photo session does not mean that everyone needs to be dressed in couture clothing or that you need to have your photo session at Versailles. It simply means you can incorporate luxury even in the smallest of places. Beautiful accessories can really bring Parisian luxury and beauty into your session. La Maison Gray is the perfect online shop for everything French inspired including studio furnishings, baby accessories, clothing and props. Pricing varies by item.
3. Flowers
The flower markets in Paris are beautiful and they are a very easy prop to incorporate in your photo session. They can add a beautiful, romantic feel to your session. From Peonies, Roses and Hydrangeas, gorgeous arrangements and loose flowers help enhance the beauty of your location and subjects. Check locally to see if there is a flower market in your area or check with a local florist to create the perfect arrangement for your sessions. Faux flower arrangements are also available online and can be a great investment if beautifully done. Prices vary.
4. Vintage
The vintage shops and markets in Paris were always filled with treasures. I wanted to take it all home with me and wished I could have fit more into my suitcase! From vintage clothing to furniture, it is easy to bring this little bit of Paris into your session. One of my favorite things was to buy was old Vogue magazines. I now have those same magazine covers framed and hung in my house. They make the perfect accessory for any studio wall space. Not only can you get vintage Vogue cover prints online, you can also buy them in postcard format. They are the perfect way to send session reminder cards and a stylish note to your clients. Covers start at $95 and postcards are $25 for a collection of 100
5. Architecture
Paris is known for its architecture. Each of the twenty arrondissements have their own distinctive qualities and style. From the cathedrals and churches to the distinctive apartment buildings, Paris has been known throughout the centuries as the place for new and classic architectural styles. It was known as the place to try something new. Not only are the buildings unique, but the doors on each of the buildings are one of a kind as well. So while you may not live in a city that has French inspired buildings, doors are the perfect way to bring Parisian style into your photo session. Look for locations that have unique doors and gates that can bring some of that new and classic style right into your session.
