Photo Prints: Moments That Literally Last a Lifetime!

Close your eyes and think back to a time where someone made you smile. What were you doing? Who were you with? Can you see their faces? Did this memory make you smile or laugh? What if you could take a picture of that moment? Would you print it? Would walking by this and seeing this printed moment make you smile? Chances are that it would. This is the power of photography. This is the importance of prints.

 But…

Let’s get real for a moment and drop some truth bombs, shall we? Organizing a photography session is a lot of work. Our clients spend months coordinating and planning them down to the smallest details. If you’ve ever had to be the point person for one, then we’re sure you know exactly what we’re talking about. If you haven’t, we’d love you to check out our blog post, “Prep For Success” blogs Extended Family Edition and Help Your Kids Shine. These blog posts can give you a bit of insight.

The Point: After going through all this planning and prepping, it only makes sense to have your beautiful portraits displayed around your home or in the home of loved ones! 

There is no greater joy than looking back at photos of friends and family. Prints are the time capsules of our lives. They can transport us back to a magical moment, that killer outfit you spent months looking for, or those small smiling faces. They are one of the puzzle pieces of happiness. This is why we also share or gift photo prints to others. Whether it’s photo books, calendars, custom frames, or canvas art, there is something so beautiful and personal about this gift.

Thinking about prints as home décor can make us a bit nervous. But we can assure you, it’s a happy, nervous, kind of excitement. There are so many things to consider when choosing prints like your style, the footprint of your home, and the wide variety of mediums for custom prints, just to name a few. But did you know that I (Dawn) have a background in custom prints and framing? And knowledge is certainly power! Finding the best medium for your photos to display and gift is a passion of ours. Here are a few tips that will help you decide how best to print your image. These days there are so many wonderful options: vintage, modern, eclectic, industrial.  We could go on forever. There are truly options for any style.

READY? LET'S GO!

Step One

Let’s start with the basics. What is a print medium? A printing medium refers to the material on which a print is created. Pretty simple right? Now that you are familiar with the term, is there a medium you absolutely love or gravitate towards naturally?

·       Paper- The simplest form of printing, but with so many fine arts paper and framing options, it can make this option just as dynamic as any other medium.

·       Canvas- A bit more artistic than conventional printing. This option can add a multi-dimensional look with the options of varying canvas thickness and gallery wrapping, perfecting your desired look.

·       Metal/ Aluminum- The unique and modern look you’ve been looking for! Metal prints offer a vibrant and sleek finish, creating a sense of depth when mounted on your wall.

·       Acrylic- A light-weight transparent plastic that also happens to be shatter resistant. Photos can be printed directly on acrylic, adding rich color or can be used as a substitute for glass in your framed print.

 Step Two

Take a stroll through your home, office, or anywhere else you may want to display your photos. Be deliberate. Look at the decor of each room. Most of us decorate the separate rooms of our home a bit differently. For example, your living room will have different art than your kitchen. Your office will have a different look than your child’s bedroom. How would you describe your overall style? Shabby chic? Rustic-industrial? Or modern flare?  

 Referring to our guide above, does your space already have some of these mediums? Are your current prints vintage framed or modern wrapped canvas? Are they more traditional? If you find that they are, then framed or canvas might be best. If your décor is more modern, then metal or canvas might be best. Though there are modern frames also. This can be a big help in deciding what medium is right for you.

BUT… (and that’s a big but)

Don't let this be the sole factor in making your medium choices.  All these mediums can be intermingled! Making your decisions is all the more fun! But if you need some inspiration, as always, we’re here for you. Feel free to check out our Pinterest for inspiring ideas! There aren't any rules against hanging what you love in your home. It is your home after all and you are the only one that knows you best!

 Sidenote: Our style tastes have the tendency to change over time. Be sure to pick a medium that can reflect any future changes in your home. This will ensure your selection will be a lasting stable in your home or office for years to come.

That being said, don't be shy about trying something new. We have deckled prints! Deckled edge prints have a dramatic feathered edge, giving your photo that hand-made appearance. This makes the print feel as though you have just uncovered a long-lost antique book. The material is an archival, matte cotton rag paper which will last a lifetime. Deckled edge prints also have a slightly textured surface that is a pleasure to touch. They are stunning in appearance and are a picture-perfect option for those that like something a little different.

 More Options:

If you find your walls are filled or you just want something more tangible, something you can hold versus hang, we have a great selection of books, albums, and other unique gifts that can be passed onto future generations. Our albums alone are gorgeous and are made with archival (this means they'll last a long time) materials. Guaranteed to bring love, laughter, and endless smiles to your family for many years to come.

 Step Three

Let’s make it happen! We love to collaborate with our clients. Prints make a profound statement, and we are here to help you choose that statement piece that will leave friends and family awe-struck.

 Additional questions? It never hurts to ask. Send us a message or give us a call - 727-946-8129.