Which prop looks better?

[Former_Member]

Hi everyone!

I'm still working on my item photography, and many thanks to those of you who have already offered feedback!

In a previous thread, I got some feedback that my plant prop might not be the best choice next to my framed photographs. So, I've photographed some of my framed photos next to a stack of books to see if that looks better.

I'd be in your debt if you'd let me know which of the following you think looks better: the photos next to the plant or the books. I moved my "prop photo" to the first in these listings, so you don't have to click on the items to see them. Normally, I use the .jpg file as my first listing for my photographs.

Thanks in advance!
:) Athena

https://www.etsy.com/listing/109388307/leaves-rosette-4x6-print-nature
https://www.etsy.com/listing/109296542/nature-photography-4x6-spiny-agave

[AdamRabbit]

I like the stack of books!

[LilyEmmeJewelry]

Stack of books looks much nicer. You could try some vintage teacups, too!

[Former_Member]

Thanks Adam and Valerie!

[susanstreasures]

The plant in the background

[Former_Member]

I think I like the plant better... you can see the photograph better. What if you put the frame ON the books?

[TerahClassyCreations]

I actually really like the plant prop - especially since the photograph is of a plant too. But I agree with 443 jewelry - the idea of putting the frame on the books is good.

[Former_Member]

I like the books prop best.

[Former_Member]

my vote is for the plant

[dalystudios]

I like the plant as it is a different shape and height. Two side-by-side rectangles of the same height compete.

[Former_Member]

Another thought: Could you make the photo of the photograph a bit larger? Then put a smaller plant as a prop? My first impression of each photo was that the prop was over taking your beautiful photography.
I am working on trying to improve the photos in my shop too and am trying different things. I think the secret is to get the product to 'pop' without emphasis on the prop.

[ForgedMettleJewelry]

The books...

[FreshFromtheFlame]

I prefer the books.

[Former_Member]

I like the idea of the books, but I feel like it doesn't showcase your photo the well either.

[Former_Member]

The books draw my eye too much. The plant is more neutral but I'd change the plant to something in a smaller pot with fuller foleage.
JMHO :)

[Former_Member]

Thanks, everyone! Very interesting ideas...

[ohmyclumsyheart]

The books look good.. but the photograph itself comes across quite flat. Play around a bit more.

x

[TerraRhapsody]

I prefer the books :)

[Former_Member]

Thanks, Sophie and Kitty.

Sophie- not sure what you mean by the photo coming across as "flat." Could you explain?

[Former_Member]

I like the one with the books, but maybe you could try to angle the books (by pushing the stack back on the right) to bring the picture more to the front and show it off more. Just a suggestion. = )

[Former_Member]

I like the plant better. Or the photo on top of the books. BUT, the photo needs to be much more prominent in the thumbnail. I couldn't tell what you were trying to sell. Crop so much closer to the photo.

[AnneLondezGlass]

I vote for the books too. It makes for a very elegant picture whereas the plant catches the eye before the photograph, which isn't what you want.

[Former_Member]

Books, but I too like the idea of putting it ON the books.

[Former_Member]

Thanks for the input, folks!