High-Quality Prints

Canvaspop Canvas Printing

Looking for inspiration for photo gift ideas? Check out this article featuring a variety of personalized options. Transform your favorite photos into beautiful wall art with canvas printing from our store.

Creative and Personalized Photo Gift Ideas

Let’s dive in and look at 33 creative and personalized photo gift ideas for family members and friends!

Our Top Pick

1. Canvaspop Canvas Printing

If you know of a single image that means a lot to someone, a canvas print is one of the best gifts you can give. Maybe it’s a scene from a momentous occasion or a memorable family vacation. Many sites, such as Canvaspop, produce an easy service from start to finish. You can choose from a selection of canvas styles and sizes.

2. Golden State Art, 13.6 x 19.7 Black Photo Wood Collage Frame

If a canvas print is too big, consider putting together a series of photographs in an elegant frame with a white mat. These are great gifts for people to keep family favorite photos on their desk or wall at work or a home office. Framed photos are a simple present to spruce up someone’s home.

3. SKYRHYME 10.1-Inch Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame

Instead of printing pictures and putting them in a photo album or a regular frame, why not put them in a digital one? A digital frame automatically cycles through different photo collections. They can be family photos, beautiful landscapes, or favorite memories!

4. Snapfish Photobook

A photo book by Snapfish is a perfect gift to encapsulate your favorite memories. It’s an easy way to share your favorite photos with friends. Or, you can take a collection of pictures from a memorable event and sequence them together. Photographs generally exist in the digital sphere nowadays. So printing a photo book is a fantastic personal gift. The photo collection will survive as long as it’s taken care of. Plus, there’s no need to worry about accidentally deleting images!

5. Photobox Notebook

A great way to have an everyday reminder of good times is to make a personalized notebook through Photobox. So whether someone is taking notes or writing in a personal diary, those words will always be accompanied by great pictures.

6. Custom Silhouette Art

What if someone has too many photographs in their house? Or maybe they prefer something a bit more stylized? Silhouetted art could be for you. Silhouette art is where a photograph of your choice is turned into a simple outlined image. Get these made at Not On the High Street. Select picture style, background color, product, and even a personalized tagline to go with your images.

7. Mixbook Photo Calendar

If you think having one image printed and on display isn’t enough, how about having 12 of your favorite photos? A photo calendar is a wonderful, functional way of sharing pictures. Mixbook provides an excellent photo calendar service where you have a selection of designs to choose from.

8. Custom Shutterfly Mousepad

A photo mousepad is a practical gift that can be useful for a long time. I still use my personalized photo mouse pad from my trip to Disneyland about 20 years ago! Find a great selection of mousepads at Shutterfly.

9. Personalized Photo Key Chain

A photo key chain is another present almost guaranteed to be used and seen daily. Places like Shutterfly give you plenty of options to find the perfect style for your family or friends.

10. Etsy Photo Locket

Consider a locket if you are looking for a more elegant photo gift. Loved ones can experience the magic of opening it to find an intimate family photo. You can find these photo gifts from Etsy, Amazon, your local jewelry store, or a flea market. Any photo printing shop will help you out with the miniature print. Take in the locket, and they can judge the size and shape. It is a gift someone can treasure forever!

11. Pressed Glass Photo Frame

There is something exquisite about pressed glass frames. Presenting images this way makes them look as though they are suspended in the air. This is a great way to preserve your special keepsakes if you have older black-and-white photos or Polaroids.

12. Personalized Snow Globe

Consider a personalized snow globe from Photobox if you’re looking for something small to fit on a desk. It’s like having a photo frame but with an added touch of Christmas or winter.

13. Personalized Photo Bookmark

What better than a reminder of your loved ones, every time you open your latest book? This custom-printed bookmark is a stylish and handy way of not losing your place. And it makes every time you sit down to read even more special.

14. Custom Snapfish Magnets

For people who want mementos in the kitchen, a fridge magnet is a great place to put family vacation photos or other memories. You can revisit special days as you cook. Snapfish provides an excellent service. You can choose from different design templates and styles.

15. Personalized Photo Cushion

Do you have the perfect image to tie in someone’s living room decor? Or maybe you want to give your friends a comfortable couch companion? A personalized throw pillow from Snapfish could be the answer to your problems.

16. Personalized Shutterfly Blanket

There is no better crossover between fun and functionality than a custom photo blanket from Shutterfly. There are many ways you can lay out your images. Most places will give you a template to help you with your layout. If you are confident in Photoshop, make a document the same size as your desired blanket. Your imagination is your only limit!

17. Personalized Reusable Shopping Bag

What if you want to get photo gifts for a friend or family member who is environmentally conscious? A reusable bag from Shutterfly is your answer. Ensure your friends don’t use single-use bags for shopping anymore. They can take the same custom bag out every time!

18. Personalized Suitcase

Avoid accidentally picking up someone’s suitcase by getting a personalized suitcase. Dyefor gives the option to have a full print on both sides of your bag. This is the perfect photo gift idea for the jet setters out there.

19. Custom Phone Case

A thoughtful gift to get someone is a custom phone case. It adds a personal touch to the everyday. Not only is it protective of your smartphone. But it can also be a warm reminder for the person you give it to. You can create an original design with your favorite photos, picture collages, digital collages, and more.

20. Personalized Wrapping Paper

What if you already have the perfect gift but want to add a custom touch? How about making your own wrapping paper? You can select from a range of styles and easily upload images to put in patterned templates.

21. Custom Photo Cake Icing

The ultimate party pleaser is having your own photo on your cake. This used to be an expensive choice where you would have to go to a particular baker. Now, you can order the layer of icing with a custom message online!

22. Custom Photo Bunting

Are you looking for a way to add an extra-special touch to a party set-up? Get some personalized bunting. What better way to show the different faces of the guest of honor around the whole room?

23. Personalized Mug

A classic option. Giving the gift of a nice, personalized mug goes a long way, especially with an image that warms the soul as much as a nice cup of tea.

24. Personalized Photo Coasters

Yet another classic option. Giving the gift of a nice, custom photo coaster goes a long way. This can be a perfect companion to the personalized mug above! You can even use a series of photos.

25. Custom Camera Strap

Are you looking for a present for the avid photographer? Why not add a simple addition to their kit with a custom camera strap from Etsy? There are plenty of materials to choose from and different degrees of personalization. It’s an easy, thoughtful gift without going over the top.

26. Photo Reel Viewers

Are you feeling nostalgic? Do you want to pass on memories to younger family members or the whole family? Maybe they’ll get a kick out of this great Photo Reel viewer. Photo Reel viewers are a fun way to see photographs in an intimate way. Uncommon Goods makes the viewers, along with your own customized picture reel.

27. Personalized Photo M&M's

If a friend has a sweet tooth, give them customized M&Ms! This well-known chocolate brand lets you print a small portrait onto each small piece of chocolate. Pick your colors, photos, and package.

28. Personalized Photo Hat

Are you looking for a present that adds a bit more style? How about getting a personalized hat? You can turn your image into a vector and have it embroidered. Or, if you want to stick with a photograph, they can print a patch to stick on.

29. Photo T-Shirt

There is no better way to keep a personal photograph close to your heart than by wearing it on your chest! You can find fantastic customized T-shirts on Amazon.

30. Custom Socks

Do you have someone who won’t wear pictures on a T-shirt? Custom photo socks could be the right personalized gift to give someone. You’ll find a wide selection of design templates to choose from. Some options even cover the whole sock!

31. Custom Photo Puzzle

Looking for a family activity with a personal touch? A custom photo puzzle is a unique gift idea for whole families or problem-solving friends. Putting a puzzle together is a great way for people to spend time together and enjoy your selected photo. You can select the puzzle size and how many pieces there are.

32. Custom Playing Cards

A pack of cards is common to have around for games night. Why not make it that much more fun by adding your own photos to them? PersonalizedPlayingCards.com specializes in this. They give you a choice of different card types—some are even poker-quality!

33. Custom Photo Rubik's Cube

CanvasChamp makes a great selection of fun ways to show photos. You can find this in their custom Rubik’s Cube section. Not only do you get the choice of putting your favorite photos on a Rubik’s cube, but there are also fun magic cubes that reveal your images in exciting ways.

Conclusion: Creative Photo Gift Ideas

After going through this list of photo gift ideas, you will have more than enough gift options for your loved ones. Make sure you read each website’s size and image resolution requirements. The quality of your photos will make or break the gift, so ensure you provide the highest quality possible.

High-Quality Prints

Canvaspop Canvas Printing

Canvaspop features a variety of creative, personalized gift options. Transform your favorite photos into beautiful wall art with canvas printing from our store.

Top 3 Items to Boost Your DIY Photography Props Collection

BBTO 21 Pieces Flower Hair Clip

BBTO 21 Pieces Flower Hair Clip

School Smart Railroad Boards

School Smart Railroad Boards

Krylon K05223000 Chalkboard Paint

Krylon K05223000 Chalkboard Paint

10 Best DIY Photography Props

Here are 10 creative DIY photography props you can easily make for your photoshoots.

1. Make DIY Floral Crowns Using Flower Clips

Some flower crowns can be very expensive, don’t look that great, or fall apart easily. You can prevent this and save some money by investing in flower clips.
Ebay and Amazon are filled with affordable hair accessories. Search for flower clips and order a few that look good together.
You can then use these to make your custom flower crowns. The best thing about separate flower clips is that they can be rearranged. You can design the crown according to your preferences and the photoshoot’s theme.
You can, of course, go old-school and use fresh flowers that are in season. All you have to do is buy floral wire, shape it to fit your head, and attach flowers. Refrigerate your crown of flowers if you’re not using them immediately to keep them looking nice.

2. Create Perfectly Framed Photo Booths Using Rail Road or Foam Board

This DIY idea comes with a lot of creative freedom. It’s a great prop for weddings, baby showers, and other parties requiring lots of group photos. All your models have to do is hold the frame while you take photos of them!
All you need is a large railroad board or foam board, scissors, glue, a ruler, and decorations.

3. Let Your Photo Backdrops Come to Life Using Chalk

Another creative way to enhance a background is to use chalkboard paint or chalk. You can use this on a chalkboard, chalkboard wall sticker, black wall, or the ground. Chalk illustrations are versatile. They can be used in a variety of photoshoots.
If you want something conceptual, you can draw on a chalkboard or even hire an artist. If you want something personal and fun, you can ask your subject to draw a few things themselves.
The second option is ideal for children’s photography. It helps prevent boredom and make your subjects feel important in the process.

4. Enhance Newborn Photos With DIY Rainbows and Clouds

This is an easy way to take creative photos of newborn babies and children. Using non-toxic paint, paint a rainbow on a roll of craft paper or any other material appropriate for the photoshoot.
You can use a white fluffy blanket that resembles a cloud. Or you can fill a large basket with pillow stuffing. Place your subject gently on the cotton cloud in the middle or on either side of the rainbow.
You can take this further by painting birds, clouds, stars, and landscapes on the backdrop to create a more wholesome composition.

5. Create Custom Backgrounds Using Tape and Colored Paper

Are the walls in your home too boring for simple portraits? Invest in large sheets of colored poster boards and tape them to a wall. You can then light your subject using artificial or natural light.
Ensure the colored paper is large enough to take wide photos and close-ups. You can use washi tape instead of regular tape to avoid damaging the wall.
If you want your background to look even more striking, use sheets of wallpaper with different designs.

6. Turn a Simple Bath Into a Milky Floral Photoshoot

For this DIY photography prop, you need a bathtub, access to natural light, lots of water, milk, and flowers. The closer the bathtub is to a large window, the better your photos will look.
To prevent wasting a lot of milk, you can use milk powder. Make sure the water is hot so that the powder can dissolve and not form chunks in the bathtub. The less you use, the more translucent the effect will be.
Once everything is ready, put a few flowers into the bath to intensify the dreamy effect. Milk baths are an easy way to take unique photos of children, pregnant women, and couples.

7. Create Fluffy DIY Clouds to Take Surreal Portrait Photos

Once again, fluffy clouds are one of the best DIY photography props you can make in minutes. They’re perfect for fun children and family photography. All you need is cotton and glue.
Using the pillow stuffing, create realistic-looking clouds of different shapes and sizes. You can glue them to a round base, like a balloon, if you want them to stay in place. Glue the pieces together.
Once everything is ready, hang the clouds from a ceiling, stick them to a blue backdrop, or have your models hold them.

8. Turn Light Bulbs Into Flower Pots to Enhance Backgrounds

Those old incandescent lightbulbs we’re trying not to use anymore can be turned into delicate works of art. These light bulb terrariums are perfect for house decorations and photoshoots.
Even when you’re done taking photos, you can hang them in your home.

9. Decorate Simple Balloons with Fabric for a Chic DIY Prop

There’s no doubt that balloons make colorful and striking photo accessories. To make your photoshoot as unusual as possible, cover the balloons in colored fabric.
To keep everything in place, tape the fabric to the base of the balloon. You can also use string if the tape stands out too much. This will work best on black or white balloons. Other balloon colors might clash with the fabric.
You can use these DIY props in all types of portrait photography, including birthday and fashion shoots.

10. Use Paper Bunting to Decorate Simple Backgrounds and Foregrounds

Bunting is the perfect photography decoration. You can use it as a creative foreground or background to enhance simple photos. The easiest way to make bunting is to use colored paper, glue or tape, scissors, and string.
Cut out triangles like those below and attach them to a long line of string using glue or tape. And you’re done! If you want something more delicate, use colored fabric or cloth with designs.

Conclusion: Best DIY Photography Props

Using simple items in your home, you can transform your photos and portraits into creative masterpieces. These DIY skills will help you find potential for photo props in simple places and get creative no matter where you are.
Are you looking for more great DIY ideas? Check out our post about how to make a DIY wood backdrop for photos next! Or take a look at our Creative Portrait Concepts eBook that delves into more DIY photography props.

No matter what style of photography you choose, it’s always fun to have some props on hand to add an extra bit of personality to your photos. To help you, we’ve gathered together 21 props for a wedding photoshoot.

Best Props for Your Wedding Photoshoot

Suddus Curtain Lights

Suddus Curtain Lights

Imprinted Designs Vinyl Art Decal

Imprinted Designs Vinyl Art Decal

KINGBO Step Stool for Adults

KINGBO Step Stool for Adults

Top 21 Props for a Wedding Photoshoot

Here are our top wedding photoshoot ideas using props. Incorporate them into your next wedding photoshoot to create an extra special wedding album for your clients!

1. Create Beautiful Bokeh With Fairy Light Props

For this to work effectively, you should use a large aperture like f/1.8 or f/1.4. This aperture will blur out the fairy lights and create a soft bokeh effect.

Stretch out the fairy lights horizontally. Make sure they’re as far away from the focal plane as possible. If they’re close to the couple, they’ll be in focus. The further away they are, the smoother the bokeh will be.

Fairy lights are a great way to create dreamy photos and frame simple wedding portraits.

2. Decorate a Doorway to Create an Eye-Catching Background

Hang flowers next to a door. You can follow the example below to create aesthetically pleasing symmetry.

You can make your wedding photography props more personal by hanging words on a door. Or make a simple sign for the reception venue. You can buy custom vinyl lettering or make your own (you can make them out of paper). They can be a quote, the couple’s initials, or a cute doodle.

When this is ready, all the couple has to do is stand in front of the door. Make sure you use a small aperture (like f/8) to ensure that both your subjects and the entrance are in focus.

3. Decorate a Ladder With Flowers and Signs to Make a Stylish Backdrop

For this, all you need is a wooden ladder. (A metal one won’t look very appealing!)

You can make it look more romantic by painting it white or pink. Decorate the ladder with fresh (or even fake) flowers, custom signs, or a chalkboard with a cute note.

4. Use a Sign as a Symbol of the Relationship

We often associate signs with roads and directions. In photography, they’re commonly used to symbolize someone’s journey. That means they’re perfect for a wedding—the start of one of life’s greatest journeys.

All you need is a blank sign. You can write something conceptual on it, like “Forever is just around the corner,” or just use a romantic quote.

The couple can pose next to the sign. If you shoot from the right angle, you can capture both the sign and the wedding in the background.

5. Use a Bouquet to Create a Stunning Background for Close-Ups

Most wedding photographers take at least one photo of the bride and groom’s rings. Make sure you have a good macro or zoom lens so that your close-ups look as professional as possible.

To make the rings stand out, carefully place them on a bouquet. A bouquet of dark roses is perfect for moody close-ups.

Avoid anything too vibrant or white, or else the rings will blend into the background.

6. Create a Fun Picnic Atmosphere With Flowers, Snacks, and Cake

If you have time for a pre-wedding photoshoot, create a stylish picnic setting. This is a fun way to make your wedding photos stand out from the rest by utilizing wedding photography props.

All you need is a blanket, a picnic basket, and a few wedding-related treats.

The couple can enjoy their time outdoors without worrying about guests or wedding schedules. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to take candid photos.

7. Decorate a Chair to Create a Stylish Wedding Photo Studio

On their own, chairs may not look that interesting. You can instantly enhance them by covering them in flowers and cute quotes.

You can also write the couple’s names on the back of the chairs. All the couple has to do is sit on the chairs and pose for you!

8. Take Atmospheric Wedding Photos With the Help of Hanging Lightbulbs

Hanging lightbulbs are a common sight in bohemian weddings. These simple wedding photography props can instantly enhance any atmosphere, especially in the dark.

Because of their warmth and brightness, lightbulbs will work perfectly in any location. Try using them during the couple’s first dance!

9. Take Photos of the Couple in Front of a Colorful Flower Wall

Some of the most extravagant wedding parties have flower walls. You can make a cheap version of your own with a large board, hot glue, and fake flowers.

The wall doesn’t have to resemble a real wall. It just needs to be big enough to serve as a background for two people.

10. Use a Large Torch to Create Romantic Nighttime Silhouettes

This wedding prop won’t be visible in your shots, but it will significantly enhance your photos. You can use it in the dark to take romantic silhouette photos of the couple.

All you have to do is place a large light source behind the couple. The couple has to stand in front of it and cover it completely. The light source can be a large torch or any other artificial light you can find.

Make sure there aren’t any other lights around so your silhouette looks as dark as possible.

11. Use Sparklers to Add Warmth to Your Nighttime Photos

Sparklers are cheap and safe to use as wedding props. You can ask some guests to hold out their sparklers as the couple walks or dances.

The couple can also hold their sparklers close to your lens (but not too close!) as you focus on them. This will create vibrant and warm bokeh, which is perfect for nighttime photoshoots.

12. Turn Wedding-Themed Balloons Into Fun Wedding Props

Wedding-themed balloons are some of the best creative wedding photography props. Some balloons have simple quotes on them, while others are more intricate. Some balloons are transparent and have mini balloons floating inside of them.

There’s a lot you can do with even a small group of balloons. You can have your models pose next to them. You can also turn them into a beautiful balloon wall where guests can take cool wedding photos.

13. Create a Romantic Path Using Flowers and Candles

If you have time for an elaborate wedding photoshoot, rent a large studio where you can create a romantic atmosphere.

Make sure the studio has many windows so your portraits look as professional as possible. This is great for more intimate photoshoots where there are no guests.

You’ll need a couch or something else the couple can sit on. You’ll also need a few candles, fairy lights, and flower petals. You can include other accessories and decorations to make the location look homier.

Make sure you shoot from a low angle to capture both the couple and the details around them.

14. Create Dreamy Foregrounds With the Bride’s Veil

Veils are the perfect foreground props for dreamy wedding photography.

Ask someone to stretch the bride’s veil towards your camera. It can cover your entire camera lens or only a part of it.

Use a large aperture (such as f/2.5) and focus on the couple. This will blur out the veil that’s close to the camera lens and create a hazy effect.

15. Photograph the Bride in a Tiara to Create Luxurious Wedding Portraits

In some cultures, wearing a crown to a wedding is customary. If this isn’t something the couple is already doing, why not introduce it to them?

A tiara can enhance a bride’s wedding dress. It can also make your photos look more extravagant.

The crown itself doesn’t have to be expensive. You can buy a special wedding crown for under $20 on Amazon.

16. Take a More Natural Approach by Making Your Own Flower Crown

If the wedding has a rustic or bohemian theme, you can make your own flower crowns for the bride and her bridesmaids. All you need is wire, flowers, and scissors.

Create a large circular headband using wire. Cut the stems of the flowers and wrap them around the headband using small pieces of wire. And you’re done!

17. Create a Romantic and Colorful Atmosphere Using Smoke Bombs

Smoke bombs come in a variety of colors and are perfect for cozy outdoor photoshoots. Make sure you use them in a safe outdoor space.

The bride and groom can hold the smoke bombs as you take photos. If you want to create a more surreal effect, you can ask an assistant to hold them instead.

18. Create a DIY Wooden Arch to Pose With Friends and Family

A wooden arch is a perfect prop for beautiful wedding photos. This will take a little more work than most of the photography props on this list, but it will be worth it if you’re looking for the perfect photo frame!

You’ll need pieces of wood, a drill, a saw, a staple gun, flowers, and a long piece of white fabric.

19. Take Photos Next to a Boat to Create a Surreal Effect

Beaches are great locations for dreamy wedding photography. If there’s one next to the wedding venue, consider taking photos next to a boat.

The couple can pose in the water next to the boat. For something less messy, you can simply include the boat in the background as the models pose on the beach.

20. Add a Touch of Nostalgia to Your Wedding Photos With a Vintage Car

Cars are versatile photography props. You can photograph the bride and groom inside, outside, or even on top of the car. You can shoot through the car windows to create ethereal reflections.

You can use any car you like, but I recommend renting a vintage one for a day. Vintage vehicles are photogenic, cute, and perfect for any kind of wedding photography theme!

21. Turn a Regular Swing Into a Floral Masterpiece Using Flowers

If there’s a swing at the wedding venue, decorate it with flowers. You can attach them to both sides of the swing with wire.

Wedding guests can take creative selfies on the swing. You can also turn it into a mini wedding photo booth where guests can sit and pose with party masks or other photography props. You can find great photo booth prop ideas online!

Conclusion–Best Wedding Props

Wedding photography props can turn simple locations into creative photo studios.

You don’t need a lot of money to make your clients’ photos look unique. Sometimes, all you need is a little imagination and very simple photography props.

Best Props for Your Wedding Photoshoot

Suddus Curtain Lights

Suddus Curtain Lights

Imprinted Designs Vinyl Art Decal

Imprinted Designs Vinyl Art Decal

KINGBO Step Stool for Adults

KINGBO Step Stool for Adults

Our top pick is this Rustic Town leather cover photo album. It is big, stylish, and will protect your prized photos.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Photo Album

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

What Is the Best Photo Album?

There are tons of different types of photo albums. You can choose between simple “magnetic” albums where a flap of clinging plastic holds the photos in place. Or your album can have plastic pockets to simply slip the pictures in. Finally, you can use glue or corners to fix photos, tickets, or postcards into a “scrapbook” style album. The best photo album is the one that works for you.

Before we look at the albums we’ve chosen, here’s a summary of them all.

Our Top Pick

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

• Handcrafted genuine leather, wrap closure
• High quality acid-free cotton rag paper
• Holds 200 4 x 6-inch or 5 x 7-inch photos
• Versatile use for weddings, travel, and scrapbooking

Best Loose-Leaf Design

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

• Handcrafted, stylish leather design
• Gold-embossed accents, acid-free vellum
• Holds 120 4 x 6-inch or 4 x 7-inch photos
• Lifetime guarantee, assembled in Maine

Best Square Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

• Combines analog charm with modern design
• Holds 200 photos, easy assembly
• Archival-grade, acid-free art paper
• Customizable 3 x 3-inch cover window

Best Pocket album

200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4×6 Prints

200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4×6 Prints

• Deluxe raised rounded spine design
• Holds 200 photos with memo area
• Bidirectional pages for versatility
• Archival-quality paper is acid and PVC-free

Best Post-and-Screw Album

Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

• Self-adhesive clear plastic overlays
• Holds popular print sizes, including panoramics
• Stainless steel screw-post binding for unlimited refills
• Deluxe, washable faux leather padded cover

Best Large-Format Album

Large Leather DIY Photo Album

Large Leather DIY Photo Album

• High-quality durable PU leather cover
• Holds various sizes of photos and tickets
• Dust-free, waterproof preservation
• Perfect gift for special occasions

Best Budget Album

Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

• Padded cover with front frame
• Holds 24 4 x 6-inch photos
• Clear pockets, black mesh background
• Uses acid and PVC-free paper

Best Display-Book Album

2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 6×4 Photos

2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 6×4 Photos

• Sturdy, elegant design for durability
• Archival-quality sleeves protect photos
• Compact size for easy portability
• 2-pack album set for extra storage

Best Wedding Album

Elegant Wedding Album – 12″ Square, 2 Pockets, Gift

Elegant Wedding Album – 12″ Square, 2 Pockets, Gift

• Elegant design for timeless memories
• High-quality paper fits various photo sizes
• Over 800 adhesive tabs included
• Convenient storage pockets for mementos

Best Magnetic Album

RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

• Spacious layout for various photo sizes
• Quality self-adhesive pages preserve memories
• Stylish PU leather cover with photo window
• Perfect gift for special occasions

The Best Photo Albums in More Detail

Now let’s look at what each of our recommendations has to offer.

1. Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Brand	Brand RUSTIC TOWN
Size	Size 12 x 8.7 inches (30.5 x 22 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Scrapbook
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Acid-free cotton rag pages with interleaves
Best For	Best For Storing a mixture of sizes and items with style

×

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Amazon

$55.99 $85.00

Buy Now!

This Rustic Town leather photo album will look great on your shelves or coffee table. It has an Indiana Jones vibe about it. The cover is held closed by a flap and leather strap. I confess this is a little bit of a triumph of style over function. But this album is for style-conscious people.

There’s nothing quite like leather photo albums for looking classy. And the leather is soft and supple and will only improve with age.

The pages are made from acid-free cotton rag. There is a patterned, semi-transparent interleaf between all the pages. You’ll need glue or adhesive photo corners to add your photos. But you can mix and match sizes, labels, and other media to the pages.

For stylish flexibility, the Rustic Town photo album is a great choice. It comes nicely nestled in a presentation and storage box. Its success as a photo album will depend on the quality of the glue or photo corners that you use.

2. Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75 x 10.5

Brand	Brand Gallery Leather
Size	Size 11.75 x 10.5 inches (29.9 x 26.7 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Bonded leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Pocket, loose-leaf
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Mix and match various inserts, lifetime guarantee
Best For	Best For Scrapbooking and storing mixed media

×

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Amazon

$50.00

Buy Now!

This Gallery Leather photo album is a good choice if you’re looking for a big leather album. It’s not as quaint as the Rustic Town album, but it has some great features. It is a loose-leaf design, which means you can mix and match the inserts to your photos.

You can add inserts for photos of three different sizes. They are 4 x 7 inches (10 x 17.7 cm), 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm), and 10 x 8 inches (25.4 x 20.3 cm). You can also choose black scrapbooking inserts.

You can also add photo notes in the 4 x 6-inch leaves. They come on a sheet, making it easier to write or print on than if they are in the album.

The inserts are free from PVC and acid. Like all Gallery Leather products, the whole photo album carries a lifetime guarantee. The ability to mix and match the contents is a real benefit to this album.

3. Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Brand	Brand Kolo
Size	Size 8.25 x 8.75 inches (20.95 x 22.23 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Cloth-covered board
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features 12 different colors, quality paper with room for notes
Best For	Best For Hard-wearing storage of photos

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Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Amazon

$49.00

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One neat feature of the Kolo Hudson is the archival acid-free paper. Even though it has pocket-style photo storage, the pockets are fixed to high-quality paper. This means you can write any notes or memories right next to the photo.

A three-inch square window on the front can be used for a cover picture. The book cloth cover material is durable and should last a long time. The album comes in 12 different colors as well as black leather. There is also a 3up version with space for 300 4 x 6-inch (10 x 15 cm) photos.

Kolo says that the Hudson 2up is the best-selling premium album in the US. And it’s easy to see why, as it offers incredible quality and ease of use.

4. 200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4x6 Prints

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 9.25 x 9.25 inches (23.5 x 23.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Bonded leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Low-cost option, leaves are free of acid, lignin, and PVC
Best For	Best For Anyone needing good-looking storage at a decent price

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200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4×6 Prints

Amazon

$18.88

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This Pioneer Photo Album solves a common headache. One problem with slip-in leaves for photo albums is that you can normally only insert photos in one orientation. So you have to rotate the whole album to see any photo that’s oriented otherwise.

Pioneer Photo Albums has overcome this problem with a patented slip-in page that accepts prints in either format. At least for the standard 6 x 4-inch picture size.

Alongside the pockets is a “memo section” where you can write details of the photograph. But some users have warned that the ink can smudge easily. So you have to be careful with your pen choice.

The leaves themselves are free from acid, lignin, and PVC. This should ensure a long life for your photos.

The cover is bonded leather. It’s not as fancy as full-grain leather, but it does add a touch of luxury at a more affordable price. At this price, the Pioneer is an affordable solution for collecting your photos with a touch of style.

5. Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 12 x 12.7 inches (31 x 32.4 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 11.4 x 11.75 inches (28.9 x 29.8 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Post-and-screw page fixing for versatility
Best For	Best For Anyone looking to simply fix multiple sizes of photos

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Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Amazon

$18.40 $29.62

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The Pioneer Photo Albums X-Pando offers a flexible-format album with so-called magnetic leaves. This is the commonly used term for a card leaf with a plastic overlay. This overlay adheres to the card stock but not the photo.

The inserts are free of acid, lignin, and PVC and are held in place with posts and screws. This means you can add extra pages as and when you wish. The large, almost-square format accommodates everything up to 8 x 10-inch prints.

The free-form possibilities mean you can add concert tickets, postcards, notes, or anything flat to the pages. The Pioneer Photo Albums X-Pando is a great choice for holidays or family celebrations.

6. Large Leather DIY Photo Album

Brand	Brand Zoview
Size	Size 13 x 13.2 inches (33 x 33.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 12.4 x 12.8 inches (31.5 x 32.5 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Post-and-screw page fixing, elegant decorative stitching
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a good-looking but reasonably priced album

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Large Leather DIY Photo Album

Amazon

$25.99

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This Zoview Album is our last large-scale album. The Zoview is another magnetic album with acid-free leaves. And the plastic covers should protect your photos even if you spill liquid on them.

The photo album looks the part. Although it’s only faux leather, it’s nicely stitched to give it a classy look.

The leaves are big enough to hold two 4 x 6-inch or even 5 x 7-inch prints. Like other magnetic pages, you’re not limited to a uniform size or even just to photos. If you run out of space, a simple post-and-screw system allows you to add new pages.

The Zoview provides good-looking storage at a lower price than a premium album. Its flexibility and expandability make it a good choice.

7. Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 4.88 x 6.5 inches (13.4 x 16.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Plastic
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Cheap and fun photo storage, easily portable
Best For	Best For Taking your photos to show family and friends

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Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Amazon

$1.99

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This Pioneer Pretty in Pink album is small and cheap. So far, the cheapest photo album we’ve seen was under $20. But if even that’s more than you want to spend, then this Pioneer photo album might suit you. It is smaller in size and capacity. But with its bright pink cover, it’s larger in attitude.

This is an album simply designed for convenience and compactness. The pockets have no memo space, and will only accept the standard 4 x 6-inch photos in one orientation. But it’s clearly intended for easy portability. And there is a small frame on the front to showcase a cover photo.

Despite this, the Pioneer Mini Album’s pockets are free from acid, lignin, and PVC. So your photos are protected from premature aging better than other budget photo albums.

8. 2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 4 x 6 Photos

Brand	Brand Dunwell
Size	Size 5.3 x 7.4 inches (13.5 x 18.8 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Flexible plastic
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Glare-free and non-cling pockets
Best For	Best For Quickly and easily storing your 4 x 6-inch photos

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2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 6×4 Photos

Amazon

$9.45 $12.95

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This Dunwell photo album is most useful for quickly storing and displaying your favorite photos. If you have a lot of photos to archive, it can be helpful just to get them in an album. Fancy labels and annotations have their place. But sometimes life is too short.

It costs less than $10 for a two-pack of these Dunwell photo albums. But you still get non-cling pockets that are anti-glare and acid-free. That means that you can quickly and easily get the photos safely stored and ready to view. It makes for good photo storage before moving the best ones into something nicer.

9. Elegant Wedding Album - 12 inch

Brand	Brand Your Perfect Day
Size	Size 12.5 x 12.5 inches (31.8 x 31.8 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Scrapbook
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Luxurious leather cover, comes complete with mounts
Best For	Best For Anyone who wants a beautiful memento of their special day

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Elegant Wedding Album – 12″ Square, 2 Pockets, Gift

Amazon

$52.99 $69.99

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The Your Perfect Day Wedding Album wears its intent on its (plush leather) sleeve. Even when it looked like printed photos were dying, wedding photos refused to lie down.

Wedding photo albums are as much a part of the big day as the bouquet. And Your Perfect Day’s wedding album has a luxuriously soft leather cover. This gives it a sense of occasion that befits the memories it holds.

The leaves are plain with a semi-opaque protective page between the pages. The album comes complete with 800 photo mounts to fix your photos. The album is big enough to allow a combination of photo sizes and orientations.

It’s a wedding photo album, so it’s important that you can fit in those bigger photos. You can even include some Polaroids if your guests have been taking them. It also has room for service orders and other mementos inside the back cover.

Some people have even used it as a guestbook on the big day, adding photos and mementos later. This Your Perfect Day Wedding Album is a flexible solution to giving your wedding photos a touch of class while keeping them safe. It’s an album you will return to time and again.

10. RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

Brand	Brand RECUTMS
Size	Size 13.6 x 13.2 inches (34.5 x 33.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 12.5 x 11 inches (31.8 x 27.9 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Magnetic leaves for flexible arrangements, comes in 12 different colors
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a wedding album that makes a bold statement

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RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

Amazon

$28.99

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Amazon.co.uk

$46.61

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Amazon.de

$55.16

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Amazon.sg

$67.77

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Amazon.com.au

$80.72 $86.67

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Amazon.ca

$80.02 $93.15

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Amazon.sa

$249.70

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This RECUTMS wedding album also allows you to use a mixture of photo sizes. But because it’s magnetic, you don’t need to use glue or sticky pads. It also means you can change your mind (and your photo layout).

The photo album protects your photos with pages that are free of lignin, PVC, and acid. The faux leather cover is available in 12 different colors and is buttoned for a classic look. There is a front cover window to make the album more personal.

This RECUTMS photo album is great for a wedding album. It’s got beautiful colors and an elegant finish. And it’s perfect if you want versatile formatting options and no photo corners.

What to Look For in the Best Photo Albums

There are some important questions to ask yourself before choosing your album. Here are some thoughts to help you.

What Purpose Do You Want Your Album to Serve?

You don’t want a leather-bound monster to cart around with you to show your friends photos at the coffee shop. But you don’t want to throw your wedding photos in a dollar store plastic 4 x 6-inch photo wallet. So think about the purpose of each photo album when you choose it.

The best photo albums will display your photos well. But these are your own photos, so pick the best way to show them off.

What’s the Best Way to Stick Your Photos in Your Album?

It’s stating the obvious, but you have to stick your photos in your photo album somehow. Years ago, magnetic albums were cheap nightmares. They lost their stickiness and shed your photos like a Husky sheds hair in the spring. Thankfully, these have improved over the years. They’re certainly better now than the cheap ones of the past.

They’re made of a rigid board and a clear sheet of plastic that you place your photos between. You peel the plastic back, then place your photos and cover them. The plastic adheres to the pages but not the photos.

The benefit is that it’s not as fiddly as using glues or mounts. And it allows you to include other flat objects like tickets or postcards. You must remember to leave enough margin around the photos to give the plastic something to stick to.

Pocket photo albums have plastic sleeves with pockets for you to slip the photos into. The advantage is that it is quick and easy. On the downside, you are restricted to the photo size chosen by the manufacturer.

Scrapbook-style albums provide you with a blank canvas, so to speak. You can choose to stick whatever you want, wherever you want it. The advantage is that you can be very creative. You can place the photos however you want.

If you can draw or write beautifully, you can annotate or illustrate your pages. Like a magnetic album, you can add other elements like place cards from your wedding. The disadvantage is that your photo mounts, glue, or sticky pads have to be good. Otherwise, the photos can come loose.

What Else Should I Consider?

Perhaps the most important is the protection the album gives. I have been careful to choose albums that don’t include chemicals or substances that will harm your photos.

Acid is frequently used in paper production and can damage photos over time. Lignin, a natural part of paper pulp, is what causes it to yellow with age. This is also undesirable in your photo albums. It’s best to look for photo albums with pages that are free from PVC, acid, and lignan.

 

Conclusion: What Is the Best Photo Album?

There is such a wide range of purposes for a photo album. From the obvious wedding day to a carefully curated record of a holiday, our top pick is the Rustic Town leather photo album. We love its quality look. And as it gets older and more worn, it will look better and better. It’s big enough for most purposes and small enough to be practical.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Photo Album

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Once you’ve chosen your printer paper, you’ll want to frame those photos. This isn’t always as easy as you think. It’s not always simple to get the perfect picture frame size for your wall art. This is partly because the aspect ratio of our photos is not always the same as the paper we want to use. Paper sizing can be surprisingly confusing. So here’s a quick explanation…

Affordable Option

Amazon Basics Picture Frame

Discover the perfect picture frame sizes for your photos and prints with our versatile and durable photo frames. Protect and display your cherished memories with ease.

Understanding Picture Frame Sizes and Paper Size: What You Need to Know

Photo printer paper is largely the same across the globe, apart from standard “office” size paper. In North America, the standard is US letter size (8.5 x 11″ / 215.9 x 279.4 mm). Almost everywhere else, it is A4 (8.27 x 11.69″ / 210 x 297 mm). They are very similar in size. Your average home printer or dedicated photo printer will happily default to this size.

But the aspect ratio of the paper is even more important than raw size. This is usually given as the ratio of one side to the other. So 6 x 4″ (15 x 10 cm) paper has an aspect ratio of 3:2. US letter has a ratio of 1:1.29 (roughly 13:10). A4 (and in fact every ‘A’ size paper) is 1:1.41 (roughly 7:5). For the math lovers out there, the ratio is actually 1:√2.

If you’ve ever even briefly looked into this, you’ll know there’s a problem. The pictures your camera produces do not neatly fit these larger paper formats. This table shows the aspect ratio of the most common camera formats and papers.

As you can see, there are some easy formats. The most popular print size, 6 x 4″, matches the aspect ratio of full frame and APS-C cameras. With other print sizes and other camera formats, you will need to crop your photos. It’s important to know this before you print. That way you can match your photos to the available picture frame sizes. You can see how the various formats relate to each other here.

Things to Consider When Choosing Picture Frames

You have some choices to make once you’ve chosen your photo and cropped it as necessary. It’s important to think of choosing picture frames as part of the whole creative process.

There are considerations such as the frame color. And you’ll need to decide if the picture is going on the wall or a table or shelf. If it’s on the wall, decide if it will take pride of place as a talking point. Or you might want a collection of small photos framed together.

It’s worth thinking about where you want to put your photos. Few of us have large, gallery-like spaces. So you can be creative. Use the stairs, perhaps. And don’t forget the littlest room in the house! If it’s going on the wall, make sure the fixing is safe. A picture might be worth a thousand words, but it’s not worth a burst pipe.

What Picture Frame Material do You Want?

The possibilities are almost endless. At the most basic are frameless picture frames. Personally, I think that unless you’re a student or living in the ’80s, these probably don’t work anymore.

But there are wood frames of every kind—metal of all sorts, plastic, reclaimed material, and others. Then you need to think about how wide you want the frame material to be. And how deep. Some photos look really good with a deep picture frame.

What Size do You Want?

This seems like a simple question. But the array of frame sizes can be bewildering. Probably the most popular print size is 6 x 4″ (15 x 10 cm). It’s a great size for passing around, and it fits nicely on a table or bookshelf. But on the wall, it can get a little lost.

If you have a bit more space, then 7 x 5″ (18 x 13 cm) prints make more of an impression. In a small room, they won’t look too lost on the wall. In most cases, you need a larger print for hanging on the wall. This would most likely mean US letter or A4. Although 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) is still popular for darkroom papers. Inkjet printer paper tends to be standard office paper size.

For more impact, you can go bigger. Some keen photographers might have an inkjet printer that will handle larger paper. If so, then you’re probably going to use 19 x 13″ (32.9 x 48.3 cm, also called A3). This is roughly a 3:2 ratio. Any larger than this and you will probably be using a specialist printing service.

Look for inspiration in magazines or on the internet. If you have a striking photo that you can enlarge, make it the focal point of a wall. If you have a number of pictures you want to display, then consider a collection of smaller picture frames.

Do You Want a Mat?

A mat (or mount in the UK) is a frame within a frame. It can add style and class to the framed photo. A dark mat can bring out a light photo. It can also contrast nicely with the picture frame. Many off-the-shelf picture frames will come with a mat. This often means that one frame size offers you two possible photo sizes. A 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) frame can display a print that size. Or it will often come with a mat for a 7 x 5″ (18 x 13 cm) photo.

In general, I’d say a mat is essential to setting off your photo. My wife, an artist, thinks everything should be triple-mounted. The frame and mat count as 2. Triple-mounting certainly makes an impact, but is probably unnecessary for everyday needs.

Finally, there are some mats available for displaying multiple photos in one picture frame. This can be a great choice for the right subject.

What About Glass?

Glass is great for protecting your prints. It’s also great at reflecting light, which can be a problem. If you can stretch to it, buy a picture frame with non-reflective glass. The same problem of reflections should influence your choice of paper.

This choice also depends on where the frame will be. If it is in direct sunlight for some of the day, you will need to think about that. Or if it’s a dark corner, then think about some accent lighting. Again, magazines or Pinterest can be useful sources of inspiration and ideas.

What are the Best Picture Frame Sizes for Your Photos?

Let’s start with some common picture frame sizes. Nothing is more common than the 6 x 4″ (15 x 10 cm) photo. If space is tight, then pick simple photo frames that fit the photos exactly. An 8 x 6″ (20 x 15 cm) photo frame with a mat will display a 6 x 4″ photo perfectly. Don’t be afraid to go big with the frame and mat. A stylish frame and an eccentric mat can have a great impact.

It’s curious, given its 5:4 aspect ratio but 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) size, that photographic paper was always very popular with photographers. And it remains a very popular frame size for graduation photos, wedding shots, and other causes for celebration.

A picture frame size that allows a decent mat for a 10 x 8″ (25.5 x 20.5 cm) photo would be something like a 17 x 15″ (43.5 x 38.5 cm). This would be a great size picture frame to show off your work.

A medium-sized picture frame will fit the bill for the most common size for US letter (27.9 x 21.6 cm) size photos. And an 11 x 14″ (28 x 35.5 cm) frame gives plenty of room for a tasteful mat. For A4, you’ll need something like 14 x 11″ (35.6 x 27.9 cm) to allow enough room for a mat.

For a bolder statement, there are some A3 (18 x 12″ / 29.7 x 42 cm) frame sizes with a mat for an A4 photo. This gives a very generous surrounding to the photo.

Likewise, you can find A2 (24 x 18″ / 60 x 42 cm) picture frames with an A3 mat if you really want to show off your A3 prints. If you’re using North American frame sizes, then something like 17 x 22″ (43 x 56 cm) photo frames should work well.

Remember, you don’t have to stick to rectangular or square picture frames. Circles or ovals also make a great choice. A final option, whatever size your photo, would be having a custom frame made.

Custom frames allow you to choose from a wide range of mats and frames. And it means you definitely have the optimum choice of picture frame sizes. This is especially attractive if you’re investing money into a big statement photo. Get it printed on gallery paper, and give it the gallery treatment in the frame.

Conclusion

It’s a pity that so many great photos never make it off the hard drive or out of the cloud. I have never had better camera equipment, and I have never printed so few photos.

Printing and framing your pictures isn’t cheap. But well-chosen, beautifully-framed photos can be a real feature in your home. Knowing what picture frame sizes are available to you locally before you print your photos is a handy tip.

Convenient And Customizable

Shutterfly Print Store

Discover the highest quality photos printed on glass at our online store. Choose from a range of sizes and finishes, and enjoy our 100% satisfaction guarantee and free shipping on orders over $39.

Photos Printed On Glass: What’s Better—Glass or Acrylic?

It’s unlikely that you’ll find agreement on this. Some people say that glass is better because it lasts longer. It won’t degrade with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. And it won’t attract dust in the same way.

Others point out that glass is inherently fragile. It is often heavier than acrylic prints. It can have sharp edges. And it will almost certainly break if you drop it.

But I’m going to look at glass print services rather than acrylic prints. And there are quite a few of them out there. Glass printing is still quite a specialist service. It’s unlikely you’ll find someone locally that does it. But like metal prints and other specialty products, you arrange your glass photo printing online and have them delivered. Glass prints certainly have the potential to create a stunning display of wall art.

What Type of Glass Prints Are Available?

One of the problems comparing glass printing services is that there is such a variety available. Comparing like-with-like can be tricky. But we’ll help you unravel the various options. The main choice, apart from the size, is curved vs flat and wall-mounted vs free-standing.

But there is also the question of opaque backing or translucent. Different printers offer different types. But don’t worry, I’ll steer you through your options.

1. Fracture

There’s a parachute school in Prague called “Impakt.” “Fracture” seems like a similarly bad name for a glass photo print service. But we’re not here to judge.

Fracture is proud of its environmental credentials. They are a carbon-neutral company and fulfill their orders from their manufacturing plant in Florida. So when your prints arrive, you won’t find packing peanuts or bubble wrap. And they ship internationally.

Fracture offers six print sizes, from 5 x 5 inches (12.5 x 12.5 cm), to 21.6 x 28.8 inches (55 x 73 cm). Their printing process prints every color but white on the surface of the glass. The ink is then cured instantly with UV light. Thick white ink is then applied to the rear of the glass.

You can choose original glossy or a matte finish. A mounting card is fixed to the rear of the print. This allows easy fixing to the wall with a simple screw (supplied) or as a stand-up photo.

Another display option is their Storyboard—a wooden shelf with three grooves to allow prints to be layered. Or you can choose their Photo Wall. Here you upload your photos to a layout of your choice. They are delivered to you in their various sizes with a paper template to mark the screw locations on your wall.

Fracture glass prints have rounded edges to make them safe. Unlike some prints, they are not designed to let light through. The simplicity of the system and the company’s green credentials make this a good choice, especially if the sizes they offer suit your needs.

2. Snapfish

While Fracture only sells glass prints, Snapfish sells dozens of different print media. Perhaps as a consequence of that, their glass prints are much more limited. They offer two sizes 5 x 7 inches (12.5 x 17 cm) and 8 x 10 inches (20.5 x 25.5 cm).

The gloss-only prints are on bevel-edged glass and come with acrylic blocks to stand them up. The price is similar to Fracture, but the two sites sell prints of different sizes. Overall, there is not as much flexibility in size or presentation methods. Although Snapfish has European and Australian websites, the glass prints are unavailable there. The US store only delivers to US addresses.

3. Beyondprint

Like Snapfish, Beyondprint offers a range of print services. You can choose metal, wood, fine art paper, or even poster-size self-adhesive prints.

Not only do they offer 38 different size combinations of glass print, but they also offer custom sizes. The glass has a glossy finish (actually, the firm is Finnish too). The glass is 1/4 inch (7 mm) thick, with polished bevel edges.

One of their selling points is that the print is weatherproof, so it can be used in damp areas and even outside. The glass is fitted with a hanging plate and wall spacers, so they hang parallel to the wall.

The prices are very competitive, so it is a pity that they only ship to Europe. But they did say “currently” when I asked them about only shipping to Europe. So maybe that will change.

4. Shutterfly

Shutterfly is a well-known print-to-order company. They have a seemingly endless range of products, of which glass prints are one. You can order flat or curved. Flat prints are available in five sizes from 5 x 7 inches (12.5 x 17 cm) to 10 x 12 inches (25.5 x 30.5 cm). Curved prints are available in four sizes from 5 x 7 inches (12.5 x 17 cm) to 10 x 12 inches (25.5 x 30.5 cm).

Unlike the prints we have seen so far, these are designed to be displayed against a light source, allowing the light to shine through. They come with quite large beveled edges and acrylic blocks to support them on a table.

Prices are similar to Snapfish. Interestingly, an 8 x 10-inch print will cost less than one of Shutterfly’s framed prints. And Shutterfly delivers to over 100 countries worldwide.

5. MyPhoto

MyPhoto produces glass prints on what they claim is the “world’s lightest wall art.” It is a similar product to mobile phone screen glass. AirGlass prints are available in four sizes, from 5 x 7 inches (12.5 x 17 cm) to 12 x 12 inches (30.5 x 30.5 cm).

They come with a mounting block with reusable mounting tape. Weighing just 2.8 oz (79 g), you simply stick them to your wall. And if you want to move them, they should come right off, leaving no mark and no screw holes. Prices are attractive, in line with Beyondprint.

MyPhoto’s Infinity Glass photo prints are thicker and heavier but are more expensive. They have a small, clear border and rounded corners. They come with an acrylic stand or wall-mounting plate.

Five sizes are available with a stand and three for wall-mounting. The smallest is 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm) and the largest 11 x 14 inches (28 x 36 cm).

MyPhoto offers free shipping on orders over $79 but only delivers to US addresses.

6. Prints on Glass

Well, there are no questions about the services offered by Prints on Glass. Although they also offer acrylic, glass, and metal. Their specialty is large-scale printing. They make kitchen and bathroom splashbacks and even glass memorials for gravestones.

You can choose custom sizes from 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm) up to 19.6 x 10. 8 feet (6 x 3.3 m). Pretty much any combination of opaque, translucent, and transparent is available. The glass prints can be specified for outdoor use and are UV sealed for long life.

This probably isn’t the choice if you’re looking for a picture of your graduation for your grandparents. But if you’re looking for something quite off-the-wall (or on-the-wall), then it is worth a look. Prints on Glass are based in Australia but ship worldwide.

7. Cameo Glass Prints

Cameo is another specialist glass print producer. As well as curved and flat prints, they make glass trays, coasters, tree ornaments, and cutting boards.

Curved glass prints are self-supporting. They can be viewed from both sides and come in seven sizes. The smallest is 5 x 7 inches (12.5 x 17 cm) and the largest is 10 x 14 inches (25.5 x 36 cm). These are only available in landscape format.

The flat glass prints are available in three rectangular formats (landscape or portrait) and one square. Sizes range from 5 x 7 inches (12.5 x 17 cm) to 8 x 10 inches (20.5 x 25.5 cm). You can view the prints from both sides, so you can put them against a light source. They come with a small metal peg on the bottom edge to support the glass print.

Prices are on a par with Shutterfly, and Cameo Glass Prints ship worldwide. They’re worth looking at if you are interested in some of the other glass print products they make.

Conclusion

The world of choosing a glass print for your photos can be quite confusing. What you choose depends on what you want and where you live. It also depends on how you want to display your photos.

If you live in the US and want to hang your glass prints on the wall, then MyPhoto offers a great service. It’s great to be able to make a display without drilling holes. Or to be able to change your mind.

In Europe, Beyondprint has an impressive selection of sizes and offers custom glass pictures. This makes them an attractive proposition. Especially as they are weatherproof and can be used outdoors.

If you want to emphasize the glassiness of your prints and have the light come through them, then Cameo Glass Prints seems like the best choice. Wherever you live, they can supply you with a print that takes advantage of the medium’s unique characteristics.

Finally, if you want something truly out of the ordinary, like a splashback, or a statement wall artwork, then Prints on Glass fit the bill. It’s not a cheap option, but the possibilities are almost endless. They’re one of the few options for large glass photo prints.

Convenient And Customizable

Shutterfly Print Store

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There’s a lot of information out there on the subject. Much of it is confusing, and some are just plain incorrect. We’re here to clear up the situation.

This is our ultimate guide to pushing film and pulling film. You’ll be the master of your film rolls by the end of this article.

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Kodak 400 TMAX Black and White Film

Looking to push your creativity with film? Try this high-speed, fine-grained black and white film with pushability up to EI 1600 for extra options when shooting.

Understanding ISO and Pushing Film in Film Photography

Before we get to the details of pushing and pulling film, we need to look at ISO. It’s one of the most fundamental aspects of film photography. And ISO is one corner of the exposure triangle.

The ISO refers to the film speed. It’s a label used to identify how sensitive a roll of film is to light. A lower ISO number means the film is less sensitive to light than a roll with a higher ISO number. So, a roll of ISO 200 film is less sensitive than a roll of ISO 800 film.

A roll of film with a high ISO is more sensitive to light, which means they work well in low-light situations. But the sensitivity comes at a cost to image quality. The higher the ISO, the more film grain you’ll see on the image. Lower ISO films produce images with little to no grain.

On a digital camera, you can change the ISO with the click of a button. It takes no time, and you can do it between shots. But it’s not so easy with film photography.

Each roll of film has a fixed ISO that you can’t change. The only way to change the ISO is to change the film cartridge. Once that roll is in your camera, you can’t change the ISO until you’ve finished the entire roll.

This is one of the reasons film has fallen behind digital photography over the last few decades. Film cameras don’t have the same flexibility for settings like ISO. But you’re not entirely powerless when using film. And that’s where pushing and pulling film comes into play.

What Is Pushing and Pulling Film?

Pushing and pulling film is where you treat a roll of film as if it has a higher or lower film speed. Rather than following the procedure of the ISO speed on the film box, you under or overexpose the film.

There are two parts to this process. You have the in-camera part of the procedure, where you shoot the film. Then there’s the pushing and pulling in the development stage. You can push and pull with both color and black and white film.

Pushing Film

Pushing film is where you treat a roll of film as if it has a higher ISO. If the box speed is ISO 200, you set up and shoot as if the ISO is 400 or 800.

We measure ISO in “stops.” If you push a film from 200 to 400 ISO, you’re pushing the film one stop. You’re pushing two stops if you shoot a 200 film at 800 ISO.

Changing the camera settings to push a film is simple. When you load your film, set the ISO one or two stops higher than the speed on the box. This will trick your camera into thinking the ISO is higher than it actually is.

If your film camera is an entirely analog camera with no automated features or exposure assistance, you can use a light meter. Set the ISO you want on the light meter and shoot accordingly.

But if your camera has an internal light meter and automated settings, all you need to do is set ISO one or two steps higher. The camera will think the ISO is whatever you set it to, changing the shutter speed and aperture.

Setting your camera up like this will underexpose the film by giving the film less light when taking the shot. And then you compensate for this by developing the film for a longer period.

Pushing film increases the contrast in your images. It deepens blacks and dark colors, giving you a stronger film grain texture.

Pulling Film

As you might imagine, pulling film is the opposite of pushing film. Rather than pushing the film up a few stops, you’re pulling it down a few stops. If you’re using an 800 ISO film, you shoot the film at 400 or 200 ISO. Then you develop the film for a shorter time.

The camera process is the same for pulling as it is for pushing film. You trick your camera by setting the ISO speed you want rather than the speed listed on the box. And if the camera isn’t automatic, you adjust the shutter speed and aperture as recommended by the light meter.

A pulled film is overexposed rather than underexposed. You’re giving the film more light than the box speed recommends. The reduced development time compensates for the extra light during the exposure.

Pulling film reduces contrast in your image. It can bring out details in shadows or poorly lit areas of your shot. It will mute colors and can reduce the grain of higher ISO film stocks.

Pulling film is far more common with black and white film. You can pull color negative film, but we don’t recommend it. Color film doesn’t react well to underexposure. Your images will be dark, and the colors won’t be vibrant.

Developing Pushed & Pulled Film

Under or overexposing your film in the camera is only half the battle. Whether you’re pushing or pulling film, you need to compensate for the change in ISO during the development process.

If you take your rolls to a film lab for development, you’ll need to let them know the films have been pushed or pulled. It’s best to explain this to the shop assistant. But if you send your film in the mail, leave a note and mark your film.

To mark the films, you’ll need a permanent marker. Indicate how many stops you’ve pushed or pulled by writing directly on the film canister. A note of “+1” shows you’ve pushed the film one stop. Writing “-2” indicates you’ve pulled the film two stops.

Here’s some guidance for developing pulled or pushed film if you’re a DIY photographer.

Push Developing

When you push film, you’re underexposing it. So, if you develop the roll as usual, all your images will be underexposed. You need to compensate for the extra light by increasing the time in the processing fluid.

We’ll use Kodak T-Max 400 ISO photographic film as an example, developing in a solution ratio of 1+4.

The film will need 6.75 minutes in the solution if you develop it according to the box speed. If you push it one stop to 800 ISO, it will require 8 mins. If you’re pushing two stops to 1600, it will need 8.5 minutes in the solution.

Pull Developing

When you’re pulling film, you’re reducing the amount of developing time. You’re compensating for the in-camera overexposure of the film.

For this example, we’ll use Kodak T-Max 3200. When exposed at the native ISO, it would need to be developed for 9.5 minutes.

When we pull the film down one stop to 1600 ISO, we need to reduce the time to 7 minutes. If we go down to 800 ISO, it only needs 6 minutes in the solution.

Reasons for Pushing and Pulling Film

The main reason to push or pull film is to gain more creative control when using analog equipment.

Pushing film increases contrast giving you more depth when working in flat light situations. And you achieve a strong grain texture with low ISO film stocks.

Pulling film decreases contrast. It can be helpful if you’re working in an environment with high light contrasts. It pulls details from bright or dark areas. And pulling a high ISO stock reduces grain.

You can also pull film when using expired film. The film emulsion loses its strength after the sell-by-date. And overexposing it when shooting is a way of bringing the life back into your shots. The general rule is to pull one stop every ten years past the expiry date.

You might also need to pull your film if you’re using an old camera model. For example, I have a Minolta Hi-Matic F, which has automatic exposure settings. When I shoot at the ISO stated on the box, the photos are dark and foggy. Pulling the ISO by one stop clears things up.

When you pull expired film or because the camera is old, you can develop in the usual way. But you might need to push or pull develop if you make an in-camera mistake. If you shoot a film at the wrong ISO setting by mistake, you can rescue it in development.

Conclusion

Pushing and pulling film can be confusing, especially if you’re new to film photography. But it’s a simple process once you get to grips with it. And it’s a great technique that gives you extra options when shooting film.

Film photography can’t rely on the settings options of digital cameras. Techniques like pulling and pushing film take some practice. But that’s part of the magic of analog photography!

To choose the best ISO (and other settings!) for pushing or pulling film, check out our Photography for Beginners course!

What is a DIY Light Reflector?

A reflector is a surface that can reflect light. Reflectors are such a simple piece of equipment, but they go a long way to improve your photos.
Typically, reflectors add a bit more light into areas that are not in direct light themselves. This could be to fill some shadows with a touch of light. Or it could be to add a bit more spark to a subject that is not directly in the light.

Materials Needed

• Foam-board, cardboard, or thick white card 
• Tape 
• Scissors
• Bulldog clips
• Aluminum or golden tin foil (optional)

Step 1: Decide on Reflector Material and Size

The choice of material depends on whether you want a soft, natural addition of DIY lighting or a more harsh one. If you want to fill shadows with natural light subtly, then use a white surface.
Many DIY reflector instructions tell you to use aluminum foil as a reflector material. But I am not a big fan of this technique.
Tinfoil can act as a mirror and directly bounce light. This can almost act like a new light source, which can be acceptable in dark circumstances. But it doesn’t add soft light.
And remember, tin foil can crumple easily, and light will reflect in similar shapes to the way your foil lies on a surface. So be sure the foil likes flat. And use the diffused, dull side of the foil as well!
Golden tin foil can be an excellent addition if you want your reflector to add a warm and unique light to your image.
After choosing the material, decide on the size of your reflector. It can be a large handheld reflector or a card-sized one. The size depends on your subject and how much light you want to reflect. If you are a product photographer, you may want to make a few small ones.

Step 2: Cut Out the Reflector and Add Paper or Foil

Now, cut your preferred size of reflector out of foam board or cardboard. Foam board is harder to come by. But it is perfect if you want a material that already has a brilliant white surface.
If you are using cardboard, you can cut out white cards or paper to the same dimensions. Then tape it on.
When you are taping aluminum foil, you want to wrap the foil around the card. This ensures a tighter fit. Use strong tape at the back to hold it in place.

Step 3: Set Up the Reflector Using Clips or a Tripod

Bulldog (binder) clips work wonders when dealing with smaller reflectors. Clip one on either end and use the handles as ‘legs’ to make them stand. This makes them easy to manoeuvre.
If you have a bigger reflector and no assistant to hold them, you have to get a little more creative. You can tie the reflector to spare tripods (chairs or other objects) or prop them up to angle the light.
When setting up your own reflector, keep an eye on what is happening to your subject. Spend a few minutes to try different angles. Remember, you want to place the reflector on the opposite side of the light.

Other Reflector Options

If you don’t have any of the materials listed above lying around to make a reflector, you can always use anything white! Bedsheets, a recipe card, or even just a notebook with white paper can be enough in some circumstances.

Conclusion

DIY reflectors are effective. They can be applied to any subject in the foreground, especially portraits. So get digging for materials and see if it works for you!
Do you want to learn how to take joyful and creative pictures of your children? Check out our Dreamy Childhood Portraits e-book. Learn how to take impressive photos without expensive gear or even leaving your home!

The images in this article were partly provided by DepositPhotos.

While you are photographing the atmosphere and the essential shots that make up the wedding album, guests are free to let themselves go wild in front of the photo booth. In this article, we look at some of our favourite wedding photo booth ideas you can try at yours!

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Fujifilm Instax Mini Smartphone Printer

Looking for inspiration for your wedding photo booth ideas? Consider a portable smartphone printer that allows guests to print their photos instantly and take home memories of your special day.

1. Wedding Photo Booth Ideas: The Classic Photo Booth

Nothing works better than a classic photo booth. Everyone knows what they are and how they work. This photo booth idea is clear and compact, keeping everything together. Having it at the reception allows everyone to use it at their leisure.

The classic photo booth might not be the cheapest option, but is the easiest. Many photo booth rentals provide everything to you, leaving one thing less to worry about.

2. DIY Curtain Wedding Photo Booth

Having a simple photo booth with just a curtain is one of the most effortless yet most romantic backdrops for a wedding photo booth. Luckily, this idea does not require hiring a photo booth rental.

Curtain photo booths are a perfect idea for outdoor and boho weddings, where the flowers and nature are some of the main elements of the decoration. The photo booth helps to frame the landscape and brings a touch of minimalism to the venue.

3. Hang Props From the Trees

Instead of having a dedicated photo booth that you cannot move, use a tree and props instead. This allows many possibilities for backgrounds and frames, allowing guests to use them one-after-another, or simultaneously. Guests can also use this photo booth as singles, couples, or big groups.

One of the best parts is that it doesn’t require a photo booth rental either. The props can be handmade or chosen to fit the wedding theme, making it a little more personal.

4. Stand-Up Board

Everyone loves a stand-up board. They are a fun way to make the family laugh and capture unforgettable moments. The stand-up board can have any design you wish, with as many face-holes as you want.

If you want to go for a fun wedding reception, you should consider this photo booth idea.

5. Faux Framed Wall

A faux framed wall is a great way to provide a lovely photo booth backdrop for wedding photos. The wall is open to interpretation, so you can design and make it as you wish. The best idea would be to make it along the same theme as the wedding.

Chairs and a table can make it seem like a room, adding a humorous element to the images. Even better with wall-framed holes for others to stick their head through.

6. Polaroid Frame

Everyone loves Polaroid photographs, and the white border is synonymous with instant prints. This is a very portable idea, allowing the guests to photograph each other in different places.

The best thing about these photo booths is that you can design the text under the image. Writing the names and wedding date is a great idea. It is the small details that make a wedding photo booth work.

You can create a few different frames so that your guests can find these fun photo booths in other spots of the venue.

7. Speech Bubbles

Props are a great way to add a little humour to the wedding photo booth images. Things like speech bubbles can provide words to a still image, and the best thing is, you can make them say what you want.

Having a few different designs allows the guests to choose what they prefer. Having blank cards cut into the shape of speech bubbles means the guests can write personal messages.

8. Themed Photo Booth Scenery

Some weddings are going to be simple and minimalistic. Others will be themed up to the nines. A themed photo booth can complement the wedding and provide the perfect space to take great shots of the couple and guests. You can choose a room inside the venue to dress as you wish, or even use a small space outside.

Themed photo booths can adapt to any idea, so you can place there anything you want. If your theme is the 50s, then a Cadillac would work perfectly as a prop.

9. Chalkboards

Chalkboard photo booths are a straightforward and low-cost way to create a backdrop for a wedding photo booth. The design can be as interesting or as minimal as you prefer.

These photo booths are not only cheap and creative, but they can also provide a lot of fun to guests. They can write their own text, as long as you provide them with a damp cloth and chalk pieces.

To create this photo booth, you can use an actual chalkboard, paint a surface with chalkboard paint, or get your own cutout made.

10. A Retro Van

If someone you know has access to a retro van, you can easily turn it into a wedding photo booth for the day. You can dress it up and park it wherever you need to. The camera can go in the passenger seat, while the small couch provides the guests with seating.

This is a perfect idea for bad weather weddings or one that does not have an exciting area where to photograph.

This cool photo booth idea can get even better if you customize the van with some decorations according to the wedding’s theme.

11. DIY Selfie Station

The wedding photo booth you choose does not need to be expensive nor over the top glamorous. An iPad on a tripod is enough to capture hundreds of guests.

Everyone knows what to do, and filters can make a more personal touch. You can combine these with props and a cool setting.

What you are looking for is an iPad or tablet, with a large ring-light encircling it. With the iPad facing the users, they are free to pose and frame themselves correctly. The ring-light will be enough to highlight the subjects without becoming overexposed. Alongside this Photo Booth, you’ll need an app, which you can find here for Android or Apple.

12. Instant Camera & Guest Book

The simplest yet one of the most popular ideas for a unique photo booth is to have an instant camera with plenty of film. This camera will fly around, from person to person, who can photograph themselves or the party as they wish.

The instant film provides a blank space where a written message can sit. These images stay in a photo album, which allows more writing and possible themed designs.

13. Aerial Shots

One interesting yet new idea is to use modern technology. A drone can hover above the ground, taking images of posing guests. The best thing about drone wedding photography is the change in perspective.

You can dress up the ground as much or as little as you want. People can even play around with the perspective, as lying down can make them look like they are standing up.

14. Wedding Hashtag

One way to create a wedding non-photo booth is to utilise Instagram. If you set up a specific hashtag that people can use, they will attach it to your images. These will appear on Instagram, where everyone can view the day’s images in progress in real-time.

With this, you can easily set up a laptop connection, showing the guests a slideshow of the images as they are taken.

15. A Portable Printer

One idea that works well as a wedding photo booth is having no photo booth at all. Stay with me.

The idea is that the guests use their cell phones to snap away and then print the images as they see fit. This is a great way to get people talking, snapping, and having fun. The shared printer allows wireless printing, so the guests can print as they see fit.

This has the potential for the widest range of images, as the style and perspective of each photograph will be different. This idea will allow you to see your wedding from everyone’s eyes.

16. A Floral Wall

Having a floral wall as a backdrop is one of the most charming ideas for wedding photo booths. This will add the perfect romantic touch to the photos. Also, it will look beautiful throughout the day as part of the wedding’s decorations.

The florist of the wedding can put together the floral wall, or you can do it yourself using artificial flowers and other elements, like fairy lights or other props.

17. Disposable Cameras

How exciting is taking photos with a disposable camera and not being able to see them until they are developed? It gets even better if you use a disposable camera on your wedding day.

This option for wedding photo booths is one of the most fun, budget-friendly you will find. You can set one disposable camera on every table and let your guests have fun taking photos of themselves.

You can even create a pleasant backdrop to attract your guests to take some photos there.

Conclusion

Wedding photo booths are a great activity to offer your guests. They will provide them with a lot of fun and allow you to keep some extra memories after your big day.

These ideas go from DYI photo booths to professional drone shots. You can use this inspiration to select the option that adapts best to your wedding theme and preferences. Your guests will enjoy them all. Trust us.

Our Photography Unlocked Course is a simple way to get off auto-mode and take stunning photos for life

Instant Printing

Fujifilm Instax Mini Smartphone Printer

Looking for inspiration for your wedding photo booth ideas? Consider a portable smartphone printer that allows guests to print their photos instantly and take home memories of your special day.

Product Display Enhancement

Lipper Acacia Wood 18 Lazy Susan

Improve your DIY product photography with a rotating turntable. This handcrafted, durable turntable makes it easy to capture 360 product shots.

12 DIY Product Photography Tips

Here are 12 helpful tips for how to do product photography at home. They will help you take your own product photos to entice consumers! You’ll see you don’t need much to start DIY product photography.

1. Use White Card Stock as a Versatile Tool

A sheet of white card stock or cardboard is a versatile tool for your DIY photo studio. First, it provides a clean, white background for your product shoot. Plus, if the sheet is big enough, you can use it as a DIY infinity curve.
You can even save some money and fashion your own bounce card for your flash. A sheet of white card stock is the main ingredient for a DIY version. And it also provides a perfect base if you decide to shoot from an overhead perspective.
White card stock is a great piece of equipment to have around. Just remember to keep it clean!

2. Make Reflectors for Perfect Fill Lighting

Do you lack a fill light? Reflectors are a helpful tool for using natural lighting or studio light.
If you are photographing a scene with one light, it can create harsh shadows. These are usually unwanted in a product photo, so you should use reflectors to bounce light back into the scene.
You can use cardboard or foam board as a base. And you can make a DIY reflector from other materials you can find at home, like tin foil.

3. Use Glass for a Creative Backdrop

Are you looking for a creative product background? Use glass! It offers a reflective surface, adding more detail to your shot.
Glass is also very versatile. It works with almost any product photography shoot. And it works with any colored card, reflecting what’s in its surroundings.
You probably have sheets of glass you can use that you don’t even know about. Picture frames or old mirrors can work great for DIY product photos.
Experiment with different glass items you find around the house. You don’t need to spend money. And you can get quite creative results!

4. Use a Lazy Susan for 360 Product Shots

A 360 product image lets the viewer see the product from every angle. You can buy a commercial turntable that turns at precise intervals. But you can save some money and create your own.
A lazy Susan is a turntable used for distributing food. It’s also an amazing piece of DIY product photography equipment you can buy on Amazon.
For example, attach a cloth tape measure around the bottom of a lazy Susan. Then, you can place white card stock on the surface if needed.
Start at zero inches (or cm) facing the camera. And take a photo and spin it 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) for every shot. You can photograph the product from all angles and turn it into a 360-degree video!
This will give you a smooth-turning product shot people can’t take their eyes off. You can read our full 360 product photography article for a step-by-step guide!

5. Use a Shower Curtain for DIY Lighting

A shower curtain is a low-cost item that can be used in many ways for DIY photography projects.
Do you need a DIY lightbox for your product photos? Turn a medium to small-sized table upside down. Then drape the PVC shower curtain over the top of the upturned legs, and you have a lightbox!
The PVC acts as a diffuser and creates a soft, even light when used with a daylight-balanced light source. For diffusing natural light, drape the shower curtain in front of a window. You can use it as an infinity curve, too.
Patterns and dirt can affect the light, giving you patterned shadows. So ensure the shower curtain is white and clean for perfect product images. Something like the Amazon Basics PEVA Shower Curtain Liner works very well.

6. Use Window Lighting for Different Effects

Natural light is abundant and free. It’s also the best lighting source to use for product photography.
Photographing products at different times of the day will produce distinct effects. For a warm glow, take photos closer to the evening. For a cool tone, take pictures early in the morning.
Try using a window with frosted glass. The texture will add a diffused, softer light to your product photography. If you do not have textured glass, drape a shower curtain (Tip #5) to provide that diffused look.
If you want a clean look, set up your product shoot on a large white bedsheet or sheet of cardboard. (Instead of a pricey background sweep.)
Use the light coming through the window with the homemade DIY reflectors (Tip #2). These will bounce the light back into the scene, eliminating harsh shadows.

7. Go Outside for Natural-Looking Shots

Not all product photography needs a studio to take high-quality photographs. Sometimes, a natural environment is vital for lifestyle product images.
Many types of product photography work best with a more nature-inspired aesthetic. Healthcare products, outdoor items, and food products are a few.
The best thing is the outside world is free. You have a wide range of product photography backgrounds (you may need to scout a little beforehand). You have plenty of free, natural light. And you can take as much time as you need!
Finding the perfect location may need some time and energy. But it will do your product images a world of good.

8. Fake a Marble Backdrop for Food Products

For food product images, a white background is less important. It’s more about setting up a realistic atmosphere.
A marble backdrop is popular for food products as it gives you the feeling of a kitchen worktop. You will probably have seen many images like this on social media or eCommerce store photos.
There are a few different ways to create a faux marble photo background. If you are a creative or DIY person, you may have old tins or tubes of paint in the attic. Mix shades of grey paint and create a marble look on a smooth white canvas.
There is also the option of a marble vinyl stickable sheet. These are generally cheap and work wonders.

9. Use Gels For Speedlights (Speedlites)

If you own a speedlight (rather than a softbox), we have a great trick for you! Color gels change the color of the lighting. And you can use the same setup for many different photo effects. It’s an easy and inexpensive way to add more interest to your images.
Order some sample packs instead of buying huge sheets and cutting them down to size! The Rosco Lux Small Swatchbook gives you almost 100 different shades. It’s perfect for you to experiment with creative product photos.
It’s cheap and lets you add color to your scene easily. Using a stacking process, you can even create images with several colors.

10. Use Fishing Wire to Lift Small Products

Fishing wire is a product photographer’s best friend. It’s made from transparent nylon or fluorocarbon, so it will not ruin your image. It is durable, and you can find it for cheap in any fishing or craft store.
Use it to lift objects from the base of your infinity curve or the plastic container you use as a lightbox. You can even use it in natural surroundings. Get creative and suspend the products from unusual angles and places!
There may be a little visibility to the wire. So you can use editing software to edit it out later.

11. Use the Camera You Have

You don’t need to spend a fortune on a professional product photography camera to get started. You might not think so, but the camera you already own is good enough.
Maybe you don’t have a camera? Your smartphone’s camera will do fine for DIY product photography. You can even pair it with a free camera app for extra features.
A camera phone can capture an image good enough for social media, your blog, or your website. Most images are compressed when added to Facebook, Instagram, and other social media sites.

12. Use GIMP for Free Product Photo Editing

Finally, shoot in RAW if you can. And use GIMP or other free editing software to edit the photos for a professional look. GIMP is free, open-source photo editing software. It offers many features to assist a budding product photographer.
This program helps you correct white-balance issues, clean up the background of your image, or make other changes as needed. You can even add text if it’s called for in that product shot.
There are so many things GIMP software allows you to do. Regular updates help you keep your images high quality. You can even find plug-ins that other users have created and add them for a fast and smooth post-process.

Conclusion: DIY Product Photography

Start with the 12 tips above, and you will be shooting professional Amazon product shots at home in no time. We hope our tips have inspired you and save some cash, too!
Read our post about equipment for product photography if you want to invest more in your endeavors. Or, try out our Products in Focus course for more tips on capturing attention-grabbing product photos that sell.