There are so many different types of containers available nowadays for flower arranging. In this blog post and accompanying video, we’re going to look at 14 factors that you may like to consider when choosing the most appropriate vessel for your flowers, in particular when you’re photographing them.
Proportion
When you look at an arrangement as a whole, there is a general guideline in floristry that the container should be one third in height and the flowers two thirds in height of the overall design. Or, at the very least, you should aim for a minimum of half and half.
Type
Choose from vases, jugs, urns, buckets, bowls, glass domes, baskets with liners, trugs, milk bottles, jam jars, troughs, milk urns, ink wells, pickling jars, watering cans, terracotta pots…
Size
Consider not just the height but also width. Is the container small or big, short or tall?
Shape
The overall look of your floral design will be hugely influenced by the shape of your container. For example, urns, columns, flared containers, cubes, goldfish bowls, swans, footed vases, trumpet-shaped vases…
Colour
Keep in mind not only the colour itself, but also its saturation. Is it muted or vibrant? Is it a neutral colour? Does it fit with your branding?
Material
Is your container made of glass, metal including silver, pewter, brass, or copper, china, porcelain, ceramic, terracotta, concrete, tin or enamel?
Opacity
The more opaque the container, the less you’ll be able to see what’s in it. For example, a ceramic vase. And because mechanics are hidden, you could use chicken wire to help arrange your flowers. At the other extreme is a clear glass container, where you’re able to see the mechanics and stems. My personal preference is to mostly use opaque and semi-opaque containers, so that the flowers are in the spotlight.
Size of Opening
Does the container have a narrow, wide or flared opening?
Texture
Is the container’s texture aged, shiny, matt, smooth or ribbed?
Style
What style is your container? Is it rustic, modern, elegant, playful, antique, retro or vintage?
Surroundings
If you’re creating a design for a particular event like a wedding or for someone’s home, will the container suit the furnishings and decor?
Sturdiness
Another important thing to consider is whether the container is sturdy enough to hold the flowers, foliage, mechanics and water.
Happy Marriage
Does your container complement your flowers? Does it let your flowers shine or does it distract from your blooms?
Originality
A way to stand out from the crowd is to use containers that aren’t instinctively thought of as vessels for flower arranging. For example, Rebel Rebel and their Handbags, Jamjar Edit and their Cigar Press Vase, and Jane Packer and their Hat Boxes. Be innovative. Customise your own containers. Commission a local ceramicist. Think outside the box. Showcase your personal style.
Where to Source Your Containers
Check out my latest video to accompany this blog post to discover my container sourcing suggestions! Simply click here.
FLOWER PHOTOGRAPHY ONLINE COURSE
I hope you’ve found this blog post about choosing containers for your flower arranging useful. If you’d like to learn how to take quality flower photos on your iPhone, do join me on my new online course. Gain inspiration, network online and learn the knowledge you need to improve your flower photography. It’s going to be such a wonderful experience.
And take advantage of the Special Launch Offer Price of £95, a saving of £30! This price is available until Monday, 28th February 28th. So, just a few days left! Simply click here to book your place.
P.S. You may also like to check out this blog post about How to Take Beautiful Flower Photos With Your Phone.
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