I noticed that the photos with fruits and vegetables look much better if you put them in a vertical position (or very close to vertical position) and you shoot the photo from a horizontal position. Example: Pera limonera
And, they look not really good when they are shoot from above. Also it's not very convenient to try to shoot from above in a light box. Example: Conference pears - Mutant persimmon - Conference pear
Also, it's better if they touch the ground, instead of putting them on top of some small paper supports (for keeping them in a close to vertical position). They look artificial this way. Example: Conference pears - I made rings from paper and from tin foil to convince the fruits to stay close to a vertical position.
I am using coins and a small locker behind the fruits most of the time, because they are heavy so they will not be moved by the fruit. I can shape tin foil into all kind of shapes but it only works for light objects. Plasticine is heavier but it's not good because it can stain the paper background.
I guess I'm not the only one using supports behind the objects in order to keep them in a vertical position. Is there a generic name for such objects/tools?
What are the options for doing this?
A malleable and heavy material? Better if it doesn't leave stains, but if it does, then I can use it on a wooden/plastic background.