Before I was a full-time content creator, I ran a flatlay account on Instagram.
It’s been years since my sole content revolved around flatlays (or “layouts” as we used to call them). I know accounts that still 100% rock the flatlay life, and I’m constantly inspired by their creativity. I still try to incorporate this style of photography into my own feed once in a blue moon. It’s a lot of fun to bring out all the little pieces and move them around to construct the perfect shot. In fact, I get a lot of questions about which accessories I like to have handy for this method of product photography. So, I’ve put together a little guide, detailing the top 20 pieces I own that help me slay flatlays!
20 Products to Own for Flatlay Photography
White Sheets
These make the perfect base when you’re feeling minimal or if you want to scrunch them up around your products and create a moody vibe.
Marble Contact Paper
This was my first flatlay investment, and I still use it to this day – even if it’s for something as simple as listing accessories on my Poshmark account!
Faux Fur Rug
Texture makes a huge difference when it comes to flatlay photography. You want dimension in your photos and these rugs are vital.
Decorative Trays
As I said before, dimension is key. Trays like this are great for layering small trinkets or products when you’re trying to get creative and draw the viewers eye to something specific.
Artificial Tropical Plant Leaves
I love using these most in the summer time! They give such a cheery, vibrant feeling to any photo – and add a great pop of color.
Ring Trays
Great for not only holding rings, but lipstick, a small candle, essential oils, or anything else that’s dainty and needs a definitive background.
Fashion Magazines
I try to keep multiple magazines around and layer them in photos. Sometimes I’ll open and curl the pages, other times I’ll leave the cover to be seen (if I need extra color).
Twinkle Lights
A little tricky when you’re getting down to the editing process, but twinkle lights can add something so fun and cozy to a flatlay.
Porcelain Mug + Saucer Sets
This was one of my latest purchases for my flatlays, and I don’t think I’ll ever look back. The simpler the better when it comes to these sets, and I can pour coffee, tea, or nothing (and edit it in later) to create the feeling of just having set down my beverage to snap the shot.
Fake Flower Bouquets
I actually have two of these bouquets and keep them at my desk in my cloffice when I’m not using them for photos. They’re incredibly realistic and come in a bunch of colors, making it really easy to incorporate them into the shot.
Minimalistic Notebook
Always good to have these on hand, especially for a desk photo. Keep it minimal though. No one needs to feel like their eyes hurt from a super vibrant or heavily-patterned notebook.
Metallic Pens
Set one haphazardly on the notebook, and another in the corner of the photo to create the illusion of working hard (or hardly working). π
Trendy Handbags
I love handbags with texture on the body and a good chain strap. Usually I opt for gold chain and black body so that it ties in really well with the other accessories in the photo. These are especially great for fashion-related shots.
Simple Sunglasses
This pair looks designer but cost practically nothing. They’re an awesome addition to any wardrobe – and flatlay.
Classic Perfumes
Stick with a simple bottle. Clear, with either black script or barely visible script and a metallic gold or silver cap. These are great for adding fun reflections to your photography as well, if you place them in the correct lighting.
Decorative Candles
To burn, or not to burn? It’s your decision, but either way, it’ll look great in the picture.
Dainty Rings
And lots of them! Seriously, dainty jewelry in general is an awesome prop for flatlays. They sparkle and shine without being too busy.
Layered Necklaces
As I said above, layer in those dainty pieces – and even mix metallics if you’d like. I usually stick to just gold pieces, but it can be fun to switch it up, depending on the other colors in your shot.
Instant Camera + Film
Take a photo of your flatlay with your instant camera, then use the developed film and camera for the final photo!
Makeup Palettes
Bonus if they have a mirrored interior for more bokeh and reflections. I like to stick with neutral palettes, but it can also be fun to match them to the other colors in the flatlay – or even create an entire theme.
Bonus Products to Have Around
Electronics
No, but seriously – my MacBook and iPhone have come in handy on numerous occasions when I’m feeling a lack of flatlay accessories. Turn your phone over to reveal the case, or face it upwards and edit in a website you’d like displayed in the finished shot. Place accessories on your keyboard or set up a minimal desktop wallpaper that ties into your theme. Get creative!
Pets
Furry, scaly, feathered, etc., pets are awesome to have around and they add that “aw”-factor to photos that’s unexpected when it comes to most flatlays.
Shop All 20 Products Here
What are your flatlay accessory must-haves?
Pin for Later
Hillary Conheady says
I love this idea! Such a cute blog post! I invested in some marble contact paper too – best purchase ever!
xo, Hillary | hillheady.com
Greta says
The marble contact paper was a game changer for me but now I need to add all these things to my amazon cart. Great recommendations!
Donna says
Fantastic ideas. You always have the best flatlays!
Hillary Conheady says
I love this idea! Such a cute blog post! I invested in some marble contact paper too – best purchase ever!
xo, Hillary | hillheady.com
rebecca says
You covered everything, girl! These are some really great tips.
xx rebecca
Greta says
The marble contact paper was a game changer for me but now I need to add all these things to my amazon cart. Great recommendations!
Cathy says
These are such incredible tips! I never thought of marble contact paper, what a game changer! Thanks for posting!
XOXO
Cathy
Sharon Wu says
these are some great prop ideas for flatlays babe! you definitely rock the flatlay game. recently i decided to switch up my backgrounds with boards that i painted with acrylic paint! it makes flatlays a little more interesting on days i don’t feel like using my sheets or plain background paper lol π andddd yes to pets as nice touches to any photo, flatlay or not. lol!
Lee says
Such an interesting post idea! I need to up my flat lay game for sure.
Indya | The Small Adventurer says
I love a good flatlay photo, but I’m awful at taking them! My place has awful lighting, and even with my artificial lights, everything seems to have a really harsh shadow. I love these prop ideas though, I’m definitely not short of some cute mugs ππ
Sharon Wu says
these are some great prop ideas for flatlays babe! you definitely rock the flatlay game. recently i decided to switch up my backgrounds with boards that i painted with acrylic paint! it makes flatlays a little more interesting on days i don’t feel like using my sheets or plain background paper lol π andddd yes to pets as nice touches to any photo, flatlay or not. lol!
Carolyn says
Girl, your flatlay game is on point! I always struggle a bit in the beginning of thinking what to do, but find that having a ton of props around helps to get the creative juices going! You gave some good ideas here of things that I haven’t thought of. Thanks for sharing!
Lily says
I had no idea you ran a flatlay account — I can see why though — your flatlays are perfect!
Erikadvm says
These are such great ideas! I only wish I had a pet of my own to use as my cutie prop haha But amazing post Stephanie!! π
Kileen says
This is a great post babe! Love your flatlays and how bright, beautiful, and creative they are!
Kileen
cute & little
anabelle says
So many great tips!!! I have never been great at taking flatlays and am definitely going to buy these! Thanks!
Nataly says
There are so many good tips here! I love a good flay lay! They are some of my favorite photos to style.
Kristin B Cook says
I really need to get a white, fuzzy rug and some marble contact paper. Those would both be helpful additions to me. Thanks for the ideas!
Avani says
No wonder!!! Your flatlays are all so pretty!!
Kelsey says
I’m going to need you to come over and do all my flatlays for me lol. I am the worst!!
Mistle says
I love a good flatlay! That is awesome that your feed used to consist of creating flay lays! I will admit that there are times I am so picky about my flat lays as far as placement of products,etc. I love this list that you put together!
Ruth Ridley says
You are SO creative! I could not love this post more!!
Deborah says
These are such great tips! I love creating texture through backdrops when it comes to flatlays!
Nataly says
There are so many good tips here! I love a good flay lay! They are some of my favorite photos to style.
Becky @ Disney in your Day says
These are great ideas. I have the marble contact paper and a couple of other boards… but I love the idea of twinkle lights!
Taylor Mobley says
I LOVE twinkle lights for flatlay photography!!! I need to get some more.
Avani says
No wonder!!! Your flatlays are all so pretty!!
Lyddiegal says
I was thinking you were going to talk about what you used for lighting, but I suppose it’s useful to have a portable marble surface, fun ring dishes, and lots of props for visual interest in your flat lays.
http://iamchiconthecheap.com
Moriah Joy @ Our Table for Two says
Such a great starting list! I will have to try some of them.
em says
great ideas – I have some of these, but find I don’t do flatlays THAT much! Now I kinda want to do more ha!
Kim says
I always struggle with flat lays so these are all such great products for me to add into mine! Thanks for sharing.
xoxo,
Kim
JASMINE VARGAS says
Seriously this is the best. I need to get some fashion magazines. But I definitely love using my white faux rug, marble contact paper and fake flowers in my photos.
Laura Leigh says
You could not have nailed this list any better! Seriously, everything you listed is so very true and so very necessary! Absolutely loved reading this!
xo Laura Leigh
Louella Reese
Kelsey says
Love these tips! Iβve heard of the marble paper and rug tips but I love the one about mug and saucer sets!
Xx, Kelsey
Alyssa Avant says
WHat a great list! THank you
Nicole says
Great tips and tricks- I was gonna say, that cat always adds an element of cuteness too!!! The faux white rug/blanket has been my main prop!
Christine says
I’m just getting into learning the photography side of things. So this is seriously helpful! Thank you!
Deanie says
These are great tips!
Xo, Deanie
Deanie Michelle
Laura || Walking in Memphis in High Heels says
Oh my gosh, these tips are really perfect! I always try and up my flatlay game so these are really great for upcoming pictures.
Rebekah says
YAAAAAAS! I struggle with finding things to put in my flatlays ALL. THE. TIME. This was super helpful. <3
Kait says
These are all such great things to have on hand, and I realize that I barely own any of them! Time to make a Target run and up my flat lay game.
Monica says
I love working on a good flatlay! I’ve found that a mix of items with some organic ones as well does the trick for me! I’ve struggled with lighting and shadows for my lighting, but I recently invested in some lights, which I think are helping!
Laura says
These are all such great ideas! I feel like I always fall short on things to include in my flatlays, when I do them, so I found your list to be super helpful!
xo, Laura
Keating says
Totally saving this list! I feel like a complete failure at flat lays haha this is a super helpful list!!
Nicole flint says
I had no idea you ran a flatlay page! I need to step up my flat lay game. Nice tips!
Sami | The Classic Brunette says
I agree with all of these products!! I love using fake flowers and my cat when I can get him to sit still for a photo, haha! Flat lays are so fun!
xo
Sami
The Classic Brunette
Nailil says
I love flat lays! And it’s amazing how a few items can be used to created beautiful flat lays.
Azanique S Rawl says
I’m going to get all of these props! I am so bad at shooting flatlays and need to learn this year π
-xo, Azanique | https://www.lotsofsass.com
Lindsay says
Your flat lays look amazing! Some of these are my essentials too, especially a white marble tray!
Christine says
I’m just getting into learning the photography side of things. So this is seriously helpful! Thank you!
Kelsey says
Love these tips! I’ve heard of the marble paper and rug tips but I love the one about mug and saucer sets!
Xx, Kelsey
Nicole says
Great tips and tricks- I was gonna say, that cat always adds an element of cuteness too!!! The faux white rug/blanket has been my main prop!
Azanique S Rawl says
I’m going to get all of these props! I am so bad at shooting flatlays and need to learn this year π
-xo, Azanique | https://www.lotsofsass.com
Deanie says
These are great tips!
Xo, Deanie
Deanie Michelle
Laura || Walking in Memphis in says
Oh my gosh, these tips are really perfect! I always try and up my flatlay game so these are really great for upcoming pictures.
Keating says
Totally saving this list! I feel like a complete failure at flat lays haha this is a super helpful list!!
Alyssa Avant says
WHat a great list! THank you
Nicole flint says
I had no idea you ran a flatlay page! I need to step up my flat lay game. Nice tips!
Nailil says
I love flat lays! And it’s amazing how a few items can be used to created beautiful flat lays.
Monica says
I love working on a good flatlay! I’ve found that a mix of items with some organic ones as well does the trick for me! I’ve struggled with lighting and shadows for my lighting, but I recently invested in some lights, which I think are helping!
Lindsay says
Your flat lays look amazing! Some of these are my essentials too, especially a white marble tray!
Becky @ Disney in your Day says
These are great ideas. I have the marble contact paper and a couple of other boards… but I love the idea of twinkle lights!
Deborah says
These are such great tips! I love creating texture through backdrops when it comes to flatlays!
Kim says
I always struggle with flat lays so these are all such great products for me to add into mine! Thanks for sharing.
xoxo,
Kim
Rebekah says
YAAAAAAS! I struggle with finding things to put in my flatlays ALL. THE. TIME. This was super helpful. <3
em says
great ideas – I have some of these, but find I don’t do flatlays THAT much! Now I kinda want to do more ha!
Laura Leigh says
You could not have nailed this list any better! Seriously, everything you listed is so very true and so very necessary! Absolutely loved reading this!
xo Laura Leigh
Louella Reese
Lyddiegal says
I was thinking you were going to talk about what you used for lighting, but I suppose it’s useful to have a portable marble surface, fun ring dishes, and lots of props for visual interest in your flat lays.
http://iamchiconthecheap.com
Moriah Joy @ Our Table for Two says
Such a great starting list! I will have to try some of them.
Indya | The Small Adventurer says
I love a good flatlay photo, but I’m awful at taking them! My place has awful lighting, and even with my artificial lights, everything seems to have a really harsh shadow. I love these prop ideas though, I’m definitely not short of some cute mugs 😂🙊
Mistle says
I love a good flatlay! That is awesome that your feed used to consist of creating flay lays! I will admit that there are times I am so picky about my flat lays as far as placement of products,etc. I love this list that you put together!
Lily says
I had no idea you ran a flatlay account — I can see why though — your flatlays are perfect!
Kileen says
This is a great post babe! Love your flatlays and how bright, beautiful, and creative they are!
Kileen
cute & little
Kristin B Cook says
I really need to get a white, fuzzy rug and some marble contact paper. Those would both be helpful additions to me. Thanks for the ideas!
Kelsey says
I’m going to need you to come over and do all my flatlays for me lol. I am the worst!!
Erikadvm says
These are such great ideas! I only wish I had a pet of my own to use as my cutie prop haha But amazing post Stephanie!! π
Sami | The Classic Brunette says
I agree with all of these products!! I love using fake flowers and my cat when I can get him to sit still for a photo, haha! Flat lays are so fun!
xo
Sami
The Classic Brunette
Laura says
These are all such great ideas! I feel like I always fall short on things to include in my flatlays, when I do them, so I found your list to be super helpful!
xo, Laura
Ruth Ridley says
You are SO creative! I could not love this post more!!
Kait says
These are all such great things to have on hand, and I realize that I barely own any of them! Time to make a Target run and up my flat lay game.
Cathy says
These are such incredible tips! I never thought of marble contact paper, what a game changer! Thanks for posting!
XOXO
Cathy
rebecca says
You covered everything, girl! These are some really great tips.
xx rebecca
Lee says
Such an interesting post idea! I need to up my flat lay game for sure.
Donna says
Fantastic ideas. You always have the best flatlays!
Taylor Mobley says
I LOVE twinkle lights for flatlay photography!!! I need to get some more.
JASMINE VARGAS says
Seriously this is the best. I need to get some fashion magazines. But I definitely love using my white faux rug, marble contact paper and fake flowers in my photos.
anabelle says
So many great tips!!! I have never been great at taking flatlays and am definitely going to buy these! Thanks!