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Dive into our Blog for inspiration on turning your photos into stunning Canvas, Metal, Glass, and Wood Wall Prints. Get tips and ideas for enhancing your space with our high-quality, durable photo art, perfect for capturing and celebrating your cherished memories.

October 08, 2024

Capture Your Fall Memories: Tips for Creating Custom Photo Decor

As the crisp air of autumn settles in and the leaves change into vibrant hues of gold, orange, and red, all home makers across the nation begin to break out their fall decor. If you’re looking for a new way to cozy up your space with art that holds meaning, printing your own fall memories is a beautiful way to add warmth and nostalgia to your home. Let’s dive into a few creative ideas for what kinds of photos to print this season to create decor that tells your story. Print Your Fall Adventures: Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards, and More Fall is full of charming adventures like trips to pumpkin patches, apple picking, or hayrides with family and friends. These moments are brimming with picture-perfect photo opportunities, and what better way to capture the spirit of the season than by displaying these memories in your home? Imagine the joy of hanging a custom print of you and your little ones picking the perfect pumpkins, or a family snapshot taken at an apple orchard displayed as part of your seasonal decor. The vibrant colors of fall foliage combined with the happy faces of your loved ones will create a stunning and sentimental focal point in your home. These prints will not only bring back fond memories but also set the tone for autumn celebrations in your home. Tip: When selecting these photos, go for images with rich, warm colors to evoke that cozy fall feel. Think burnt orange, deep reds, and lush greens – colors that naturally blend with the season’s earthy tones. Showcase Scenery from Past Vacations Whether you've spent time hiking through forests with stunning fall foliage or visited a national park abundant with leaves changing color, those scenic photos make for breathtaking wall decor. Scenic shots are often when we snap some of our best photos, and the beauty of autumn is a natural canvas. Turn those landscape shots into custom canvas prints that highlight the beauty of nature. It’s not just about hanging pictures; it’s about bringing nature’s serenity and tranquility into your home. The vivid colors of the mountains, the serene waters of a lake, or a quaint country road surrounded by fall trees—these images can help create a calming, peaceful atmosphere in your living room or hallway. Family Gatherings: Thanksgiving, Reunions, and Holiday Get-Togethers Fall is often synonymous with family gatherings, especially around Thanksgiving or family reunions. These special moments of togetherness are the perfect memories to capture and print, whether it’s the whole family gathered around the dinner table or an impromptu photo session in the backyard. A family group shot from last year’s Thanksgiving can make a wonderful addition to your gallery wall or mantel. It’s not only a visual reminder of love and connection but also a great conversation starter when guests come over. You can create a wall dedicated to family gatherings, changing out the prints as you collect new memories each year. For extra sentimental value, consider pairing these prints with custom captions or the date of the event. This makes the print not just a piece of art but a lasting keepsake that can be enjoyed for generations to come. Tip: Candid shots are sometimes the most cherished. Don’t just print the perfectly posed pictures—capture the laughter, the spontaneous hugs, and the joy that happens when no one’s looking. Create a Seasonal Gallery Wall Can’t decide on just one photo? Why not create a seasonal gallery wall? Fall lends itself perfectly to a collage of memories that you can display together. Choose a mix of fall adventures, vacation scenery, and family gatherings to create a gallery that reflects the best moments of the season. Opt for a combination of different print types to add texture and depth to your gallery wall. Canvas prints can add a warm, cozy feel, while metal prints bring a sleek, modern touch. Use a variety of sizes to keep the wall visually interesting, with a larger print as the centerpiece, surrounded by smaller images that complement the theme. A gallery wall is a fun, versatile way to decorate your home for fall, and you can easily swap out prints for new memories when the seasons change. It’s a creative and personal way to show off your favorite fall moments. This fall don’t just settle for generic store-bought decor—bring your own memories to life through custom photo prints that celebrate the beauty of the season and the people who matter most. From fun fall adventures to family reunions and serene vacation scenery, printing these moments is a wonderful way to make your home feel cozier and more personal. Start sifting through your photo albums or camera roll and get ready to create decor that is uniquely yours.

September 05, 2024

Choosing the Best Images for Your Custom Jigsaw Puzzle: A Comprehensive Guide

Creating a custom jigsaw puzzle is a fantastic way to turn your favorite memories into a fun and engaging activity. Whether you’re looking to relive a special moment or simply enjoy a beautiful scene in a new way, selecting the right image is key to crafting a puzzle that’s both enjoyable and visually appealing. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for choosing the perfect image for your custom jigsaw puzzle, with tips on resolution, composition, and emotional significance. Use High-Resolution Photos To ensure your custom puzzle is clear and detailed, it's essential to use high-resolution photos. For our largest puzzle size, we recommend using images that are at least 3000 x 2000 pixels. High-resolution images prevent blurriness and pixelation, capturing every detail beautifully. Tip: Most modern smartphones take photos with sufficient resolution for custom puzzles. However, avoid using screenshots, photos downloaded from social media, or images with filters, as they often lose quality and may appear blurry when printed. Avoid Large Uniform Areas When selecting an image, try to avoid photos with large sections of the same color or texture. These areas can be difficult to assemble and may not be as engaging as images with a variety of colors and details. The best jigsaw puzzle images are those with intricate details that keep you interested as you piece them together. Example: Instead of a photo of a plain blue sky or a large green field, choose an image with multiple elements, such as a family portrait in a colorful garden, a bustling street scene, or a collage of your favorite vacation spots. Select Photos with Personal Significance Custom jigsaw puzzles are more than just a typical puzzle; they’re a way to relive your very own cherished memories. Choose photos that have personal significance, such as family portraits, pictures of your pets, vacation snapshots, or images from special events. These will make your puzzle not only fun to assemble but also a treasured keepsake. Tip: If you’re making a puzzle as a gift, think about what’s meaningful to the recipient. Wedding photos, family gatherings, or their favorite travel destinations are great options. Ensure Photos Are Well-lit Lighting is a crucial factor in how your puzzle will look. Well-lit photos, especially those taken in natural light, tend to be more vibrant and detailed. Avoid photos that are too dark or have harsh shadows, as these may appear grainy and have less detail. Tip: Photos taken outdoors during the golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—often provide the best lighting for rich, warm images. Consider Cropping Your Image If your photo has large, empty spaces or areas that lack interest, consider cropping it to focus on the more engaging parts. Cropping can help eliminate any boring sections and highlight the details that will make the puzzle more enjoyable to assemble. Example: If you have a family photo with a lot of background scenery, crop it to focus more on the faces and expressions, which will be more fun to piece together. Creating a custom jigsaw puzzle is an exciting way to bring your memories to life. By choosing the right image—one that is high-resolution, detailed, personally significant, and well-lit—you can ensure that your puzzle will be a beautiful and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re designing it for yourself or as a gift, these tips will help you select the perfect photo to make your custom jigsaw puzzle truly special. Start browsing through your favorite photos and select one that will not only be fun to assemble but will also be a keepsake you’ll cherish for years to come.

August 12, 2024

Top 5 Tips for Capturing Perfect Back-to-School Photos: Location, Props, and More

Back-to-school moments seem perfectly made for great photos. The photos you take can document the growth of your child based on a memorable event. They can also portray the excitement of a new experience about to begin and give you beautiful mementos of your child’s education journey from kindergarten to move-in day on a college campus. Your back-to-school photos present opportunities to let creativity help mark the occasion by adding fun touches and, with a bit of planning, celebrate the moments you want to hold onto forever. Here are five tips to spark ideas for memorable back-to-school photos. Use school and favorite locations. Situate your back-to-school photos in locations and next to landmarks that have a special meaning. You could select spots at the school entrance, in school hallways, and even sitting at a new desk in a classroom. Taking pictures at home can add familiarity in comfortable settings and give you control over lighting and background colors. Outdoor photos can capture the time of year with a change in the season that represents the turning of a calendar page. Keep your back-to-school photos natural. There’ll be plenty of time throughout the year for standard class or yearbook style photos. This is an opportunity to have fun and let the excitement of the day bubble to the surface. Let personalities shine through with the joy of the moment. Include other family member to show the passage of time and changes that you all went through over the years. It can fun to look back on the day and laugh at hair styles and fashion choices. Add props to help tell the story visually. Props can add a personal touch to your back-to-school photos and can bring interesting elements like favorite books or toys into the frame. You can find or create fun ways to indicate new grade levels with numbered signs or decorations. New clothing with school mascots or boasting school colors can indicate advances through grades, and photos of new backpacks and supplies indicate fresh beginnings. Props can also break up space and create layers and depth to make your photos more appealing and artistic. Change Levels of Perspective. Show the impact of the day through different camera perspectives that result in memorable and unique back-to-school photos. Get down and see what the front doors to the school or a room full of desks look like from a small child’s viewpoint. Get back-to-school photos from a bird’s eye view to create more artistic and dynamic shots and experiment with photos from different angles for unique pictures. Keep it candid. It’s okay to pose your children for more traditional back-to-school photos, but sometimes it can be those candid, unscripted moments you capture that turn out being the most memorable. Follow your children as they prepare for their big day and are collecting school supplies and packing backpacks and getting ready to board the bus. Take photos of your children on the move to add action and excitement to your shots and capture genuine moments of happiness. Bonus Tip. The first day of school can be stressful enough without the added pressure of hurrying through the morning trying to capture great photos. If possible, take location photos a day or two before the big day so you have time to set up shots or account for weather or other distractions. You should start the new school day early and prepare your children as much as possible for the disruptions that may be part of the process. Taking terrific back-to-school photos can capture your child’s personality at a key moment in their lives, and bring years of smiles and warm memories when you view them again in photo albums or journals. These five tips will help you make them even better.

July 10, 2024

Top Reasons Why Custom Prints Make Perfect Housewarming Gifts

Moving into a new home is a momentous occasion, filled with excitement and the promise of new beginnings. What better way to celebrate this milestone than with a thoughtful, personalized gift that adds warmth and character to their new space? Custom prints are the perfect housewarming gift, combining beauty, sentimentality, and functionality. Here are the top reasons why custom prints make the ideal present for new homeowners. Personalization Adds a Special Touch Custom prints are all about personalization. By selecting photos that have significant meaning to the recipient, you show that you’ve put thought and effort into the gift. Whether it’s a cherished family portrait, a snapshot from a memorable vacation, or a beloved pet, custom prints convey a level of care and affection that generic gifts simply can’t match. This personal touch transforms a simple piece of decor into a meaningful keepsake. Capturing and Sharing Memories Photographs capture moments in time that can be revisited and cherished forever. Gifting custom prints of special moments allows the new homeowner to relive those memories every day. Whether it’s a wedding photo, a picture from a fun outing, or a candid shot of loved ones, these prints help to create a sense of continuity and connection in their new environment. It’s like giving a piece of their history to grace their new home. Versatile Decor Options One of the great things about custom prints is their versatility. They can be made in a variety of formats, including canvas, metal, wood, and acrylic, each offering a unique look and feel. This means you can choose a style that best matches the decor of the recipient’s new home, whether it’s modern, rustic, or classic. Custom prints can enhance any room, from the living room to the bedroom, adding a personal touch that blends seamlessly with the existing decor. Unique and One-of-a-Kind Unlike mass-produced gifts, custom prints are unique to the individual. No two prints are exactly alike, especially when they feature personal photos or artwork. This uniqueness makes the gift stand out and be appreciated more than something that can be found anywhere. It’s a one-of-a-kind gift for a one-of-a-kind occasion. Conversation Starters Custom prints often serve as great conversation starters. When guests see a beautifully framed custom print, they are likely to ask about the story behind the photo. This gives the homeowner an opportunity to share their memories and stories, making the print not just a piece of decor but a storytelling medium. It’s a way to bring the past into the present and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Ease of Creation and Ordering With our technology, creating custom prints is easier than ever. All you need to do is upload your photos, choose your desired print format, and place your order with just a few clicks. You could even ship the print directly to the recipient. This convenience means you can give a thoughtful and personalized gift without the hassle. Ideas for Custom Photo Gifts Family Portraits: A timeless family photo can be the centerpiece of the living room, bringing a sense of unity and love to the home. Vacation Memories: Photos from memorable trips can bring a sense of adventure and joy into the new home, reminding the recipients of their favorite moments. Pet Photos: Custom prints of beloved pets can bring warmth and happiness to any space, making it feel truly personal and comforting. Art Prints: If the recipient has a favorite piece of art or their own artwork, turning it into a custom print can be a cherished gift that adds a touch of elegance and personal style to their decor. Custom prints are more than just wall decor; they are a way to share memories, add a personal touch, and make a house feel like a home. Whether it’s for a family member, a friend, or a colleague, a personalized photo gift is a thoughtful and heartfelt choice that will be appreciated for years to come. So next time you’re looking for the perfect housewarming gift, consider the timeless charm and personal touch of custom prints. They are the perfect blend of sentimentality and style, making any new house truly feel like home.

June 03, 2024

Savoring Summer Nights: Tips for Capturing and Printing Breathtaking Evening Scenes

There’s a reason so many unforgettable songs exist about summer nights. It’s because summer twilights and evenings are magical times, when possibilities seem endless and the company of family and good friends creates moments you wish would last forever. Today’s smartphone cameras let you capture and hold onto those memories, with excellent-looking images that once were possible only with a dedicated camera and equipment. Even better, you don’t have to be a professional photographer to take amazing early evening or late summer night shots. Chances are that your phone’s camera has everything you need for photos that you’ll be proud to display around your house or give to others. That’s not to say there aren’t some techniques you can apply to guarantee great looking pictures. With practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Plus, whether you have an Android or iPhone, features like long exposure modes and time-lapse options can also give your pictures an artistic flair. Here’s how to get started: Night Mode Is The Right Mode Fortunately, if you have a recent smartphone model, either Android or Apple, your camera will automatically adjust to Night Mode or its night shooting mode when your camera is opened and its lens detects low-light conditions. Otherwise, take the following steps. On the iPhone 15 series or more recent models, the moon icon that exists in the top-left corner will automatically turn yellow (gray when inactive) and the flash is also automatically turned off when the camera detects low light. If, instead, the Flash icon illuminates, turn that off and the moon icon will turn yellow and a number will appear beside it in the lit slider setting. The number indicates how many seconds the camera lens has determined is needed to take a good picture. You can use the slider to adjust the duration of the exposure, keeping in mind that the more time you add the longer you will need to keep the camera steady (more on camera steadiness below). Experiment with the slider to gauge the effect additional light has on the object of your lens. Even in Auto your photo will appear bright and enhanced. If you have an Android phone, your camera likely comes with a night shooting mode that may be called Night Sight, Night, OnePlus, Vivo, or Xiaomi. These modes deploy high dynamic range (HDR) for better outcomes in high-contrast conditions. On most models, you have very little control over exposure time. The lens automates the process depending on how starless the summer night or bright the outdoor lighting. To begin, open your camera, tap More, and select Night. Then simply frame your shot and you’re ready to take your picture. Steady Your Phone Clear, sharp summer night photos require longer exposure times, which means it’s important that the camera remain steady long enough based on the amount of light needed. The easiest solution is a tripod to stabilize your phone. Of course, it’s not realistic expect someone to cart a tripod along with them, even though mini and extendable tripods are relatively convenient to carry and set up. Instead use any stable object like a table top, bench, fence, or branch where your phone can be safely balanced throughout your shot. Plan Your Shot and Have Fun With Light Taking a great summer night picture takes a little more planning and patience than a daytime or indoor snap. Even for low-light images, some light is required and, in fact, the right amount of light can create a compelling look. The goal is to illuminate your subject as much as possible without washing it out or making it indistinguishable in darkness. It’s usually not difficult to find some light source like street lighting, exterior building lights, car headlights, holiday lighting, or the flame from a campfire. If you’re placing people in your shot, it may require a little more patience to get the lighting right or have them hold a pose a second or two longer than usual. Finish Your Photo In Style After you’re taken a summer night photo that you’re proud of don’t keep it on your phone. Print and mount it on a substrate to be placed around your house or office or shared with your friends or family. The best substrates for making darker images stand out with greater luminosity and detail are metal, glass, and acrylic. The hardness of these materials prevents the absorption or diffusion of inks common with traditional print substrates. Once, taking a perfect is perfect summer low-light or night shot required special camera equipment and the skill to adjust camera’s shutter speed settings. No longer. Today’s smartphone camera technology continues to advance and blur the line between digital cameras and smart phones. Explore all the wonderful options and camera modes available on either your iPhone or Android phone and this summer, when that perfect moment needs to become a keepsake, you’ll be ready. We can help you turn your most treasured memories into brilliant art. Print with us today!

May 01, 2024

Celebrate Mom: Choosing the Perfect Images to Print this Mother's Day

As Mother's Day approaches, many of us are searching for the ideal way to express our love and appreciation for the special women in our lives. One timeless and heartfelt gift idea is to create custom prints of family memories. In this blog, we'll explore the types of images that are perfect for creating a meaningful and personalized Mother's Day gift. Here are 5 themes for choosing the perfect photo. Family Portraits: Celebrate the bond between mom and her loved ones with family portraits. Choose images that capture joyful moments, candid laughs, and loving embraces to create a heartwarming display that will brighten her day. Childhood Memories: Take a trip down memory lane by printing images from mom's childhood or early years of motherhood. Whether it's baby photos, school events, or family vacations, these nostalgic images will evoke fond memories and showcase the journey of motherhood. Special Occasions: Commemorate milestone moments and special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries. These snapshots of happy times spent together will serve as a beautiful reminder of the love and joy shared as a family. Nature and Scenery: For moms who appreciate the beauty of nature, consider printing stunning landscape from vacations you’ve taken together. These serene and picturesque prints can bring a sense of tranquility and calm to her living space. Personal Hobbies and Interests: Tailor the prints to mom's unique interests and hobbies. Whether she loves gardening, cooking, traveling, or crafting, choose images that reflect her passions to create a personalized and thoughtful gift that she'll treasure. Go beyond traditional gifts this Mother’s Day and give her something truly special with custom prints that capture the moments and memories she holds dear. From family portraits to nostalgic childhood photos and images that reflect her interests, there are endless possibilities for creating a meaningful and heartfelt gift that celebrates the extraordinary woman she is.

April 05, 2024

Celebrate Your Graduate's Journey with a Custom Print

As graduation season approaches, families are gearing up to celebrate the achievements of their graduates. Whether it's a pre-k or college, graduation marks a significant moment in a person's life. We believe in commemorating these milestones with personalized touches that capture the essence of the journey. In this blog, we'll explore five tips for taking unique graduation photos, what kind of substrates to print your graduation photos, and where to showcase them! Quick Guide: 5 Tips for Taking Amazing Graduation Photos Choose a Meaningful Location: Opt for a location that holds significance for the graduate, whether it's their alma mater, a favorite spot on campus, or a picturesque outdoor setting. Dress Appropriately: Ensure the graduate wears attire that aligns with their personal style while still being suitable for the occasion, creating a cohesive and polished look for the photoshoot. Plan Outfits in Advance: Coordinate outfits and colors with family members or friends participating in the photoshoot to ensure everyone looks coordinated and harmonious in the final images. Bring Props: Incorporate props like graduation caps, diplomas, flowers, or banners to add visual interest and personalize the photos, enhancing the overall storytelling aspect of the shoot. Focus on Details: Capture close-up shots of significant details such as graduation attire, jewelry, and accessories to complement the main portraits and create a well-rounded collection of images that capture the essence of the moment. Materials to Suit Any Interior Design Needs Our custom prints are available in a large range of sizes and substrates, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your interior design needs. Whether you prefer the sleek and modern look of acrylic, the classic elegance of glass, or the vibrant colors of metal, we have something for everyone. Our substrates are of the highest quality, ensuring that your graduation photos look stunning and stands the test of time. Plus, with options like canvas and jigsaw puzzles, you can get creative with your display options and add a unique touch to any space. Displaying Pride: Where to Showcase Your Graduation Prints Once you've chosen the perfect photo to honor your graduate's journey, the next step is deciding where to display it. Whether it's in your living room, office, or gifted to the graduate themselves, custom prints are a beautiful addition to any space. In the living room, a custom print serves as a conversation starter and a source of pride for the entire family. In the office, it's a daily reminder of your graduate's accomplishments and the support they've received along the way. And when gifted to the graduate themselves, a custom print becomes a cherished memento of their hard work and dedication, inspiring them to continue reaching for their dreams. Take the time to celebrate the achievements of your graduate with a custom print that honors their journey. Whether displayed in your living room, office, or gifted to the graduate themselves, a custom print is a timeless reminder of their accomplishments. We're here to help you find the perfect custom print to showcase your pride for your graduate and celebrate their journey in style.

February 22, 2024

Bring Your Wedding Photos to Life

Your wedding photos hold so many memories. The beautiful setting, the vibrant colors of wedding bouquets and floral arrangements, and the smiles and love of friends, family, and, of course, you and that very special person, all captured in the multitude of pictures taken throughout the occasion. Now you’re faced with the dilemma of finding the best ways to print and display treasured photos from your big day. You can go the traditional route and put your picture behind glass and enclose it within a frame. However if you’re a little creative and looking for some unique and fun ways to turn your wedding photos into wall art, you have options to decorate your living room, bedroom, and home office with canvas, metal, glass, acrylic, or wood plank prints that will last and remain cherished keepsakes over the years to come. Photography.com has the perfect solutions to bring your wedding photos to life. Canvas PrintsGive your wedding prints a modern, yet elegant look by displaying them on premium, canvas stretched onto frames and then folded with museum quality. Large format printers can produce brilliantly colored prints in all sizes. Acrylic PrintsThe glossy, contemporary look of an acrylic wedding print brings out the joy of your wedding day with brilliant colors, clear and sharp images, and high-definition printing. An acrylic wedding print enhances depth, adds sophistication, and is the perfect choice for displaying stunning exterior wedding poses and group photos. Acrylic prints are lightweight, easy to hang and clean, and durable. Glass PrintsGlass wedding prints make beautiful wall art, coming in various sizes and shapes to match any décor or room style. Created from thin, high-quality tempered glass with beveled edges, glass prints add light and brightness to any space. Glass prints are also durable, easy to care for, and are printed with inks made to stand the test of time. Panel Wood PrintsWood wedding prints look great in a natural décor that includes plants, candles, and sustainable, plant-based fabrics. They give your photos a timeless look when your memories are expressed and amplified through the grain of naturally sourced, light-weight wood. Colors remain vibrant and every print is a one-of-a-kind work of art that is as distinctive as it is beautiful. Metal PrintsMetal wedding prints have a modern, sleek appearance, made more visually stunning when printed on aircraft aluminum with a clean, baked-on satin matte finish. They’re available in many sizes and are easy to care for. Keep your wedding-day memories alive by thinking outside the frame with acrylic, glass, wood, canvas, and metal wedding prints. Show off your wedding photos in fun, creative ways and turn your day of celebration into wall art that dazzles. Contact Photography.com today for help finding the perfect way to print and display your wedding photos and with all your photography questions.

February 14, 2024

10 Fantastic Tips to Master iPhone Photography

Quickly ramp up your iPhone camera photo results by following a few simple tips and taking a deeper dive into your camera settings and modes. Whether you’re taking pictures for personal enjoyment, to express creative vision, or want to produce content to share on your social media platforms, you can capture beautiful images in exhilarating detail, create stunning portraits, and get the perfect picture in any environment. The iPhone camera offers settings that both amateurs and professionals can use to take high-quality pictures. Here are ten helpful suggestions to help you enhance the photos you take with your iPhone camera. 1. Change perspective Adjusting the position from which you’re taking a photo can add some excitement to your subject and have every photo looking more artistic and less like a postcard. Shooting a subject from a low angle gives it added importance and prestige, emphasizes the sky, and reduces unwanted background distractions. A shot from above can make the subject seem vulnerable or diminished. High shots are great for capturing a large space that has lots of visual information. They can also provide a slimmer and more flattering perspective to subjects. 2. Shoot close up Close up shots let you show even the most common, everyday item in an entirely new way, revealing colors, textures, details, and patterns that can’t be detected from a distance. Getting close can add excitement, intimacy, and wonder to your photographs, and the unfocused background can enhance the final shot and add depth and interest. Close up shots can result in touching portraits and stunning images of the natural world. They capture the emotion of the human eye, the vibrancy of a flower in bloom, or science fiction, alien-like characteristics of insects. 3. Turn on grid mode Grid mode is a wonderful tool for visualizing subjects by rule of thirds guidelines for photography. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone home screen and tap on Photos and Camera, then toggle the Grid switch to on. When you bring up your camera screen, you’ll see four intersecting lines that create nine grids of the same size. Using Grid mode gives your photos a well-balanced look and avoids center-focused photo compositions that can be boring. To add special emphasis to your subject with Grid mode, place the subject at one of the intersecting points or along one of the lines to draw the viewer’s gaze. 4. Create depth We don’t experience the world in two dimensions, so why should your photographs show subjects that way? There are several techniques you can use with your iPhone camera to create depth in your photos. Leading lines like railroad tracks, roadway and pavement markings, rivers, and fencing take the viewer’s eyes from the foreground into the distance. Another technique is to include items of different colors and shapes in the foreground, middle ground, and background to give the eyes different levels of interest to focus on. A third way to create depth in your photos is to frame the shot with an item in the foreground that appears larger or smaller than in real life. 5. Use Portrait mode for portraits Portrait mode is an iPhone camera setting that you can master to accentuate the qualities and distinctiveness of your subject by making the background appear soft and blurry. It is not to be confused with selecting portrait for the frame’s orientation. This setting is helpful when the background is busy with colors or shapes that could be distractions and draw the attention of the viewer’s eyes away from what you want them to see. Softening the look of your photos with Portrait mode adds drama and focus to the subject while still allowing a subdued vibrancy to remain in the background. Keep in mind that Portrait mode does not work well in low light and your subject must be between two and eight feet away from your iPhone. To further enhance Portrait mode photos, explore the iPhone’s Portrait Lighting mode to create impressive studio and stage lighting around your subject. 6. Stage your shot Your iPhone camera lets you compose your photo to create visually stunning and balanced shots of your subjects. In many instances, you have direct control over the environment and can move objects and control lighting and shadows to get the look you want. In other cases, such as when you’re capturing images of landscapes and buildings, it is you who must move about your subject to determine the most impactful shot possible. Two useful practices for staging photos that make your subject blend smoothly with their surroundings are positioning the main elements of the photo in diagonal alignment with one another or using an architectural or natural feature to frame the subject and draw the viewer in. 7. Keep things simple Avoid clutter to keep things simple in your iPhone camera shots. If too much is happening, viewers will receive confusing messaging and your photo will lack a visual focus. Pick out one image (or several images of a similar shape or color) for the eye to connect with. Don’t be afraid of empty space in your photos. It’s called negative space and it helps the features of the subject to stand out more distinctively. You may eventually print your photo for framing, but chances are greater that you’ll be sharing your photos via text messaging or on social media sites where they’ll be viewed on small smartphone screens. Single items make a greater impact. 8. Use symmetry Your iPhone lets you apply many of the most common forms of photographic symmetry to add balance and proportion around a central axis in the shots you take. Reflective symmetry in photography uses pools of water, glass surfaces, or even shiny metals to cast a doubling of the original image. Rotational or radial symmetry plays with circular patterns to create a sense of action and immediacy. Translational symmetry establishes stability and organization when the same subject appears repeatedly in a straight line and connects the eye to items in different areas of the photo. Symmetry can be found naturally in the shape and contours of leaves and animals or the style and structure of man-made items. Keep in mind that the iPhone camera lens is not positioned in the middle of the phone and you may need to adjust your camera position to get the symmetrical effect you’re after. 9. Adjust exposure You can rely on your iPhone camera’s automatic settings to get you good photos, but for dramatic image quality you should explore adjusting the camera’s exposure. With the iPhone camera you can have greater control over the finished look of your photo, but be careful. Too much light and the photo appears washed out and too little results in a darkened shot that disappoints. When your camera is opened, tap on the screen to see the focus area and exposure setting. Tap on the area of focus and a small exposure box and sun icon appears. Adjust the exposure by sliding the sun icon up or down to create the desire effect. 10. Try a Tripod Using an iPhone camera tripod is a terrific idea if you’re the type whose photos come out a little blurry due to unsteady hands. However, a tripod can do so much more to create compelling, imaginative photos. If you have time to set your shot, the tripod can hold the camera balanced while you make height, angle, and lighting adjustments. A tripod comes in handy when taking pictures at night to keep the camera steady over longer exposure settings. You can also add to your repertory of photo-content by creating time-lapse videos, slow motion shots, and wide, arching panoramic views. Another nice advantage is that the tripod leaves hands free and away from covering the camera lens. Your iPhone camera makes it easy to capture treasured moments and always have your photos come out looking great. By following a few basic tips and exploring the wide range of settings and modes on your camera, you’ll be taking wonderful pictures in no time. Contact Photography.com today for help with all your photography questions.

February 16, 2024

Choosing the Right Size of Your Favorite Photos

Choosing the Right Size: A Guide to Printing Your Favorite Photos Some people make it look so easy. In every room of their house, every photo print fits the space perfectly. Don’t despair. With a little understanding about factors like photo resolution and aspect ratios, and by following a few basic interior decorating rules, you can easily determine the ideal size for your photo print and decorate your home like a pro. Resolution Determines Size The resolution of your photo determines its quality, clarity, and sharpness. The general rule is the higher the resolution the sharper the picture. Resolution is measured in pixels per inch (PPI). Any image with fewer than 300 ppi is considered to have a low resolution, and one with 300 ppi or more is determined to be high resolution. A low photo does not mean your picture won’t look terrific, only that it should limit the size of your photo print. If the pixel count is 460 x 310 or lower, consider going with an 8”x8” or 8”x12” format for your print. As a rule of thumb, follow these recommended picture resolutions for mid-sized to large photo prints: 16”x20” photo print 760 x 610 px 20”x30” photo print 1200 x 760 px 24”x36” photo print 1400 x 920 px 36”x48” photo print 1900 x 1400 px Fortunately, an image with a lower resolution can look better on canvas than it would as a framed photo or acrylic print, and Photography.com has the knowledge and tools to convert low-resolution images to high resolution to give your picture a crisper look regardless of size. Apply Aspect Ratios To Get the Whole Picture The aspect ratio of your photo can play a role in determining the shape your photo print will take. The aspect ratio is a fraction that describes the relationship between height and length in your image. An image with a width of 500 pixels and height of 1,000 pixels would have an aspect ratio of 1:2. Conversely, if the width is 1,000 pixels and the height 500 pixels, the aspect ratio would be expressed as 2:1. The goal is to match the image to standard print aspects without the need to crop out parts of the image and leave your print looking incomplete or unbalanced. Here is a list of the aspect ratios of the most common print sizes: Aspect Ratio Photo Size 3:4 3 x 4; 6 x 8; 9 x 12; 12 x 16; 18 x 24; 30 x 40; 36 x 48 7:5 5 x 7; 10 x 14; 20 x 28 4:5 8 x 10; 16 x 20; 24 x 30 6:5 10 x 12; 20 x 24 11:14 11 x 14; 22 x 28 1:1 6 x 6; 12 x 12 1:2 6 x 12; 8 x 16; 12 x 24 7:9 7 x 9; 14 x 18; 21 x 27; 28 x 36 2 :3 2 x 3; 6 x 9; 12 x 18; 16 x 24; 20 x 30; 24 x 36 Match Print Size to Space and Style When it’s all said and done, the most important factor for choosing the right size photo print is how great it will look on your walls. The rule of thumb for photo prints is that they should fill 50%-75% of your available wall space. If you’re hanging it behind furniture, the print’s width should not exceed the furniture’s width, and if you have any doubts, go big to fill large spaces. Here are a few tips on best ways to display your print based on its dimensions. Photo Size Best Positioning 8”x10”; 11”x14” Ideal for creating a wall gallery or if you’re placing prints in a small space 12”x12” Wonderful for creating symmetry and adding a sense of balance to a space 16”x20”; 20”x24” Looks great when displayed in pairs on walls 20”x30”; 24”x36” Perfect behind a couch or in a large space where they command attention 30”x40”; 32”x48” For really large areas in dens, living rooms and bedrooms The size of your photo prints can dramatically impact the way that you and your guest feel in your home, ranging from impressions of spaciousness to intimate moods. A print that is too small can seem lost on a large wall and one that is too large can intimidate and create a sense of imbalance. Contact Photography.com today for help finding the perfect size for your photo and with all your photography questions.

February 14, 2024

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Properly Hang Photos

Ever wonder how art galleries and museums seem to have every picture hung perfectly at the ideal height and in almost precise symmetry with every other piece? There is no secret. It comes down to preparation and following a few simple steps to create a look that impresses and appeals to the eye. Gather The Picture Hanging Supplies You’ll Need We’ll start with the assumption that you have already determined the perfect solution for framing or showcasing your favorite photos or wall art. Your choices include photos displayed on canvas, metal, glass, acrylic, or wood. By looking at the back of the print, you’ll see the type of hanging hardware you’ll be working with. The most common are hanging wire, D-rings, or a sawtooth hangar. A sawtooth hanger is common on light frames, mounts to the upper edge, and works well with a medium to large nail. A D-ring usually is attached nearer to the center of the back of the frame and works best with picture hanging hooks and bear claw hangers. The hardware should suit the weight and size of the frame. Other materials you may need to hang your photo include a hammer, measuring tape, painter’s tape, and a pencil. Depending on the weight of your photo, you may also want to have a stud finder, wall anchors, and a drill with bits on hand. Plan the Photo HangingBefore you pick up that hammer, take a moment or two to decide exactly where, how high, and, based on the material of your walls, how to hang your photo to give it that perfect placement and appearance on your wall. Find the Right SpaceWhether you are hanging one photo or creating a gallery of wall art, take a moment to consider the space where it will go. Is there natural lighting that can highlight aspects of the photo? Will it make the wall space look cluttered? Does it get along shape and color-wise with nearby objects like lamps and furniture? You want your photo to be displayed where it will be appreciated and enjoyed the most. The 57-Inch RuleThe standard practice of photo hanging followed by art gallery professionals is called the 57-inch rule. The focal point of the photo or wall art should 57 inches from floor, which is considered the average human eye level, and can provide a uniform feel for photos throughout a space when art of different shapes and sizes are all on the same eye line. It’s important to note that the 57-inch mark you measure is not where your nail or hook will be on the wall. It may be necessary to do some math to center accordingly. Measure 57 inches from the floor and mark it on the wall (or tape). Find the focal point of the photo by measuring its height and dividing in two. Measure from the top of the frame to the hook or taut hanging wire, and subtract it from the focal point measurement. Take this number and add it to the 57-inch mark Mark it with a pencil or painter’s tape This is the focal height for your hook. The 57-inch rule applies even if you’re grouping several photo of various sizes together on one wall. In that case, you’ll select one piece of wall art (usually the largest) to hang with its focal point at 57 inches and arrange the others beside and above (never below!) with a consistent space between all of the frames. Of course, with every rule there are exceptions, and the 57-inch rule does not always apply, such as when hanging above furniture, mantles, or other architectural features. In such cases, it’s recommended that the bottom of the picture frame be approximately 10 inches above the furniture or obstruction. Mark The Wall and Get Ready to HammerYour frame may be light enough to be supported adequately by one nail, but in most cases it’s recommended to anchor the nail, hook, or bear claw hanger in a wall stud for additional sturdiness and support. If there isn’t a stud where you want to hang your piece and weight is an issue, you can drill a hole in the wall and insert a wall anchor and leave room between the screw head and wall for hanging wire. Line the picture over the focal height mark and mark where the top of the frame hits. Measure the back of frame from the top to the hanging hardware and transfer this measurement down from the mark on the wall and use your pencil here. You’re ready to go. Hang The Photo With StyleAt this point, it’s a matter of securing the hanger into the wall, adjusting your frame or wall art to perfection, either by eye or with a level, and standing back to admire. However, why stop with hanging only one favorite photo? With some planning and imagination, you can turn your photo displays into gallery-style exhibitions and mount them in numerous arrangements to create one work of art and add a flair to your space. Gallery WallsCreating a gallery wall requires some planning but the result can be a vibrant way to display your favorite family photos and decorate your home with wall art that reflects your personality. One method is to trace the pictures onto kraft paper, cut their patterns, and arrange them on the floor or tape them to your wall until you see a pattern you like. One tip is to put the largest photo in the center and arrange the other around it, leaving a two-inch gap between smaller frames and a 3-to-6-inch space for larger frames. Picture Hanging SystemsA convenient way to hang photos while minimizing the need for nailing or drilling into the wall for every separate photo is using a picture hanging system. Commonly used in art galleries, they consist of a hanging rail or track mounted along the ceiling with hanging cords or wires extending down and attaching to the photos. Creating the ideal, comfortable space by filling it with your most cherished and best-loved photos is easy and needs only a little strategizing. The end result can be a personal expression of your tastes and travels and a showcase for the relationships that matter most to you. Photography.com can help you turn your most treasured memories into brilliant wall art with new and innovative approaches to printing on a wide selection of vibrant materials.