10 Creative Ways to Use Your Family Photos
So you’ve had your Pittsburgh family photo session, you’ve fallen in love with your photos (YAY), and now you’re thinking... what next? I'll tell you what isn't next: letting those sweet moments live (and die) in your photos app or Google Drive. Let’s do something special with them! Here are 10 of my favorite ways to turn your images into meaningful keepsakes:
Hang them on your walls
This one might seem obvious, but I’m talking more than one lonely 5x7 on the mantle. Think gallery wall! Think custom framed canvas in your living room!
Make them into holiday cards
You know, the kind that makes people go “Awwww!” Bonus: it’s one less thing to stress about during the holidays.
Gift them to relatives
Grandparents LOVE this. Trust me. Frame a favorite shot or put together a little brag book they can pull out any time they’re showing off their grandbabies (so like… always).
Make a time capsule box
Print a few favorites and tuck them into a keepsake box with little notes, drawings, or trinkets from that season of life. Then seal it up for the kids to rediscover years from now!
Turn them into coloring pages or paintings
Think black-and-white coloring book pages, paint by number, or commission a watercolor-style version of a favorite image.
Make a family photo calendar
I love this one because it’s something you’ll look at every day. Pick 12 of your favorite images and let each month show off a different memory - bonus points for bloopers!
Turn them into a custom puzzle
Perfect for rainy days or family game nights! Turn one of your photos into a puzzle and piece it together as a fam. It’s an activity and a keepsake.
Make them into an album or scrapbook
Whether it’s a professionally printed album or a DIY scrapbook full of handwritten notes and little doodles, there’s nothing like flipping through your memories in a book you can hold in your hands.
Put them into personalized jewelry
There are so many sweet ways to carry your family with you—lockets, keychains, even tiny photo charms. It’s like wearing your heart around your neck (or wrist).
Make a memory board
A corkboard in the kitchen, a pinboard in your kiddo’s room, a fancy framed collage - create a rotating display of your photos. And it works wonders as an embarrassing display at graduation parties - speaking from experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with your family photos after your session— you're definitely not alone! But these ideas are such a fun and heartfelt way to make them part of your everyday life, and I hope you take some inspiration from them. From gallery walls to puzzles, there's no shortage of meaningful ways to keep those memories close.
Want help turning your photos into any of these ideas? I’ve got suggestions, vendors, and inspiration—just reach out and let’s make the most of your beautiful session!
