10 Simple Ways to Display and Enjoy Printed Photos
Are your photos lost in limbo on your electronic devices? Bring them out into the open with these viewing-friendly ideas
Laura Gaskill
December 25, 2015
Houzz Contributor. I cover decorating ideas, Houzz tours & the monthly home maintenance checklist. My favorite pieces to write center around the emotional aspects of home and savoring life's simple pleasures. Decluttering course + discount for Houzzers: https://www.lauragaskill.com/welcome-houzzers
Houzz Contributor. I cover decorating ideas, Houzz tours & the monthly home maintenance... More
Since the advent of digital and phone photography, so many of us no longer print our photos. And what a shame, because when your photos live only on your computer or phone, you miss out on the simple pleasure of flicking through and reliving pleasant memories. Here are 10 ways to get into the spirit of printing (and enjoying!) your photos again.
Tucked into a mirror frame. A few favorite photos simply tucked into the corner of a mirror is a quick and casual way to display photos where you’ll be sure to appreciate them daily. If your mirror doesn’t have a lip that will hold photos, you can use a tiny bit of blue poster tack (which is easily removable) to help them stay put.
On a magnetic surface. Magnetic surfaces are ideal for creating a changing photo display, since you can add and remove photos in seconds. The fridge may be overdone, but what about a magnet board, magnetic stair railing or even an entire magnetic wall? Modular magnet boards are easy to install, and they can be combined to make a magnetic surface as large as you like.
In a basket, tray or bowl. This couldn’t be simpler: Gather up a bunch of photos, plunk them in a pretty bowl, and set it near your favorite spot to sit and chat. When friends or family come to visit, it’ll be fun to dip into and sure to spark conversation.
On an inspiration board. If you have an inspiration board or art wire above your workspace, try mixing a few of your favorite photos in with the other bits and bobs of inspiration to bring your display to life. Or you can focus on just your own photos — give them a collected look by grouping photos in a single color palette (or all black and white).
Taped to the wall. Old picture frames without the glass can often be found at yard sales and flea markets for only a few dollars. Use one to “frame” a grouping of your photos. Use photo-safe paper tape to attach the photos to the wall, and don’t be afraid to go beyond the bounds of the frame — this look is all about being casually artsy.
Clipped to a lampshade. This works best on lamps with shades that hang well away from the bulb, so your photos won’t get hot. (Heat can damage them over time.) Simply use clothespins or binder clips to attach a few photos to the edge of the shade and enjoy!
Under glass. A coffee table with a glass display case is an ideal place to display a themed group of photos. Rotate the display occasionally to feature photos from your most recent trip or the current season. If you have a table with a removable glass top, you can also sandwich a layer of photos beneath the glass; this would look modern with the photos laid out in a neat grid.
In an apothecary or mason jar. A single photo placed upright in a glass jar invites your guests to lean in for a closer look. If you have a glass cloche, use a floral frog to hold a single photo upright, then place the cloche over it.
In an apothecary or mason jar. A single photo placed upright in a glass jar invites your guests to lean in for a closer look. If you have a glass cloche, use a floral frog to hold a single photo upright, then place the cloche over it.
Personalize gifts. Use photos of the gift recipients to personalize packaging around the holidays or anytime of year. Slipped under the ribbon or taped to the top of the box, the photo acts as embellishment and gift tag in one.
In a coffee table book. A glossy photo book (make and order yours online) just begs to be flipped through, and it stacks neatly for storage. If you can get in the habit of ordering photo books regularly — try once a month or once a season — this is a great way to preserve your memories without the hassle of creating handmade albums. Or if you prefer having prints made, look for binder-style albums and slip your photos in after you’ve had a chance to go through them.
Tell us: How do you handle your digital photos — print them, make books, or just let them live on your devices?
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Tell us: How do you handle your digital photos — print them, make books, or just let them live on your devices?
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How to Design a Family Photo Wall
Simple Pleasures: Preserving Analog Memories in a Digital World
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your botanical series is inspiring, thanks (: