Where to buy Props/Furniture/Etc. ?

[LauraSAnne]

I've been on a wild goose chase looking for a long list of items I would like to get to use as props and/or furniture during my photo sessions with people. I'm having a hard time locating any of them though so I thought I would see if any of you have any websites or stores you use or can think of.

I've been looking for old chairs (to paint), a bench with a solid back, an upholstered armless chair in lime green, and an old black steamer trunk.

I live in an area without a lot of access to big city stores so websites would be ideal.

Thanks a bunch!

[SuperDan]

dont know exactly where in "mid michigan" you are... out in the boonies like cadillac or leroy or some where obscure..
i cant answer your question exactly, other than maybe trying ebay....

also, why not try a local college or community center or something? goodwill, salvation army.... etc

[beth0b]

craigslist? Check the one in your area, especially under the "free" section

[Jim Poor]

A very successful photographer friend of mine ran a promotion "Props for Photos."

Basically, it was "bring me something interesting to use (and keep) as a prop and you get a free session. Her sales sessions after the sessions are were she makes her money.

[OsmosisStudios]

Kijiji, Craigslist, local used goods sites. I've found many different things on there. They cant be had for free often times (especially furniture), but you can certainly haggle!

[Sobriquet]

Try op shops. Ebay can be helpful, 2nd hand stores. Be prepared to build up the props over time and start organising where you will store it all early on!

[junglebear]

Have a look at freecycle.org for a group near you, loads of old furniture for free.

[wri7913]

I always thought part of the joy to doing some of my photography assignments in school was searching for cool stuff to use. In searching you look high and low for things anywhere you can find them. Arts and crafts stores, farmer's markets, flea markets, malls, junk yards, etc. If you are searching for something specific that may have sale value, craigslist or ebay may help you.

[GypsyRose31299]

If you have a Hobby Lobby store in your area they have some pretty cool stuff and at some point I think just about everything in the store is for 50% off. Thrift stores and garage sales are also very good suggestions. I really like the "Props for Photos" idea!

[DawnAllynn]

Originally Posted by junglebear

Have a look at freecycle.org for a group near you, loads of old furniture for free.

I'd second that idea. Freecycle is great, I use it all the time. I have asked for wigs, dresses, props, paint, you name it, and there is usually some who has what I need, just dying to get it out of their house! :P