As a photographer, capturing stunning images requires not just a keen eye but also a few creative tools that can add a unique twist to your shots. Whether I’m photographing a family session, a newborn, or a spontaneous outdoor adventure, at least one of these three creative tools for photography are stashed in my bag. Each one helps me push the boundaries of traditional photography, enabling me to create images that stand out and tell a story. So without further ado, here are 3 creative tools for photography that I keep in my bag.

1. Lensbaby Omni System

The Lensbaby Omni System is a game-changer for any photographer who loves to experiment with light and texture. This kit includes a series of wands and crystals that attach to the front of your lens, allowing you to manipulate light in real-time. With the Omni system, I can create dreamy, ethereal effects that add a touch of magic to my images. The versatility of this tool is incredible—whether I’m shooting in harsh sunlight or soft, golden hour light, the Omni system helps me create stunning, artistic images that have a unique, almost surreal quality.

2. Colorful Straws

It might sound unusual, but colorful straws are a surprisingly effective tool for adding a burst of color to a shot. I often use them to create fun, colorful blurs in the foreground of my images. By holding a straw close to the lens, I can introduce vibrant colors that complement the subject and add a sense of playfulness to the photo. They’re also great for adding more color to a more neutral backrop. Slightly translucent brightly colored straws work best but opaque paper straws can work too as long as you have enough light hitting them! Full disclosure, I feel guilty buying plastic straws so I don’t anymore. I have a stash and if I see people destashing straws I try to save them from the trash. I would always recommend sourcing these from other folks vs. buying a whole thing of straws yourself if you can!

3. Cellophane

Cellophane is one of those inexpensive yet incredibly versatile tools that can transform a photo. I try to always keep a few sheets in different colors in my bag. When I want to add a creative flair, I place a piece of cellophane over my lens or use it to reflect light into the scene. The result can be anything from subtle tints to vibrant, kaleidoscopic effects that give the image an entirely new dimension. It’s perfect for adding mood, emotion, and texture to my work. I personally love iridescent cellophane because the colors change in the light (it’s what I used in the photo above) but any color is fun to try out!

Conclusion

These three tools—the Lensbaby Omni System, colorful straws, and cellophane—add fuel to my creative fire. They allow me to experiment, push boundaries, and ultimately capture images that are not just photographs but works of art. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just someone who loves to dabble in creative photography, these tools are worth having in your kit. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to carry, yet they offer endless possibilities for creativity.