Do you find yourself endlessly scrolling on your phone through a sea of digital images? You're not alone. It's undeniable that it's convenient to have your images at your fingertips, but tangible prints add depth and permanence to our cherished memories. And, there's research that shows that kids who see pictures of themselves around the house have greater self-esteem!


So, good job on getting your holiday card out. Now, if your session images are just sitting on your computer, now's the time to take action. I want to share why it's important to print and the ways that you can showcase these special moments. I'll share some of the ways my own family prints and displays our family photos, too.


Beyond Pixels on a Screen

Digital images may be convenient, but there's magic in holding a physical print. Pick up a framed photo and see for yourself. See how you engage more deeply with the photograph. What do you notice? What's the story? What are the details? You'll start to see the link to the past that goes beyond the fleeting nature of viewing pictures in digital form.


Creating a Family Legacy

Printed photographs have a way of becoming family heirlooms, passed down through generations. A well-preserved print holds not just an image but a piece of family history, connecting the present to the past and creating a legacy for the future.


Elevating the Viewing Experience

There's something special about flipping through a physical photo album or walking by framed photographs in your home. Tangible prints elevate the viewing experience, inviting family members and guests to pause, reflect, and appreciate the moments captured in each image.

Ways to Showcase Cherished Memories

1. Photo Albums

After every photo session, my family creates an album of our memories. We have a series of matching albums, and we have some albums that are unique. We look forward to viewing the albums every so often, commenting on how the kids have changed (look at those haircuts!), the memories we made at a specific location (remember that one time we made s'mores!), and how we can't wait for our next photo session. These are curated albums that tell our family's story. Each page unfolds a new chapter in our journey.

2. Framed Wall Art

After every session, my family discusses our favorite shots and which ones we should put on the walls. We choose frames that complement our home's décor, arranging them on gallery walls and as stand-alone pieces. This has transformed our living space into a gallery of cherished memories.

3. Canvas Prints

We know some people who love canvas prints! They add a touch of elegance to family photographs. Enlarging a particularly special image onto a canvas can make it a focal point in your home, creating a stunning visual centerpiece. (Maybe we'll try that next session!)

4. Desk Frames and Easels

Every holiday season, I print our memories for the grandparents. They love the smaller prints that can be displayed on desks, shelves, or easels (after all, they do have a bunch of grandkids to feature!). These smaller prints allow you to enjoy your favorite family moments in various spaces, adding a personal touch to each room.

5. Custom Photo Calendars

Another favorite gift idea is to create custom photo calendars featuring family photographs. This not only keeps you and your loved ones organized but also provides a rotating display of cherished memories throughout the year.

6. Digital Photo Frames

In addition to our session photos, I take a lot of photos of our kids throughout the year. I love our digital photo frames that cycle through a collection of our favorites. This dynamic display keeps memories fresh.


Preserving and Protecting Prints

To make sure your printed photos last, preserve and protect them. Store prints in acid-free photo albums, keep framed images away from direct sunlight, and handle them with clean, dry hands.


Turning digital images into tangible prints is not just a decorative choice but an investment in your family's history. It's a way of preserving the moments that define who you are as a family. As you consider how to showcase your cherished memories, remember that the significance lies not just in the images themselves but in the stories, emotions, and love they evoke. So, print, frame, and proudly display your family's beautiful moments!


My favorite printers are Nation's Photo Lab, Mpix, and Artifact Uprising. Feel free to reach out with any questions!