What is the hardest part about photo shoots? Is it planning, execution at the photo shoot (aka making everyone behave), or is it actually using those photos you looked forward to taking all year long? Well for a big handful of my clients, actually using their photos can be the most challenging. I know doing something with these photos involves more than saving the file or downloading the photos but I promise, it is worth it!

I have five ideas of ways you can use those beautiful photos after your photo shoot.

Create an Album

Simply print them. Yep, all of them if you want! Purchase an empty album where you can fill the spaces with printed photos or have an album made for you! Either option means that these wonderful photos you insisted on taking will be seen or at least preserved on something other than your computer.

Think Big

Create at least one large print to hang in your home. I am talking 16x20 or larger and print something other than a standard family portrait. Don’t print the one with everyone looking at the camera. This will make it read more like a live piece of art in your home instead of a flat photo.

Use your Photos for Gifts

Take advantage of the fact that other people love you and your family too and want to see the photos you have had taken. Photo ornaments, printed photos on a coffee mug or had delivered prints can go a long way to making any holiday or birthday that much better!

Artfully Store Them

I know I said don't just but them in a box somewhere but I revise that statement if your loose prints are in a leaded glass box. Decoration meets smart storage!

Wood or Metal Prints

Think out of the box. There are so many options when it comes to printing your photos and the material you can print them on is part of the fun! Wood or metal prints are great ways to decorate your home with additional personalized art and also make great gifts for your loved one!

The moral of the story here is to actually use those amazing photos. Don't let them sit unprinted or unseen. They should be out for you to enjoy and cherish!