Why I don't like prints.

By prints, I mean photographic prints, of course.  The physical, hold-in-your-hand prints.  And considering I come from an analog background (I learned photography on film and developed my own photos) this might come as a surprise.

I think I need to clarify.  I don't like small prints.  For the most part, anything under 16x20 is small to me.  Most typically, I think of the 4x6, 5x7, and 8x10s that we've all seen at some time or another (school pictures, anyone?).  With the growing popularity of online photo sharing, the need for small prints is diminishing. And even for those not using online options, what happens? Many times, the photo ends up on the refrigerator, or in a box. That might be okay for everyday snapshots, but beautiful portraits? They deserve better.

Giving prints with the precedence or stipulation of using a frame seems a bit impolite. I don't think gifts should have strings attached.  Now you could give a print with a frame, however that always gives the option to remove the print (and put it in a box). Personally, I feel if you want/need a small picture (because grandma has nine other grandchildren and no room on her walls for a 20x30 of your little doodle) then you should choose a photo GIFT.  And I don't mean a photo mug-although those are cute.

Here's an example:  I'm in LOVE with prints on metal.  Not metallic prints, where the photo paper itself is shimmery (I do love these too), but where the photo is directly printed on a sheet of metal, usually aluminum. This is a very unique display option, that looks great on a wall, no frame required.  But guess what?  It also looks great as a little 5x5 with a built in stand to put on your desk/dresser/counter top.  It will last longer than a print, and it feels more like a gift.  It's solid, three-dimensional, and says more than just a copy of an image.

While I love big portraits, I  do not have endless wall space, or an endless wallet.  So I get little photo gifts, mostly of my son, and sprinkle them around the house.  One on his dresser, another on a bookshelf, one I sent with my husband for his desk at work, you get the idea.

Okay, here's my disclaimer.  I'm not trying to knock the print, or judge anyone that uses/gives them.  Heck, I still buy and give them on occasion.  However, I do notice that I don't display them- they end up in a box. This is not doing the photograph justice.

So what should YOU do?  Anything you want!  It really comes down to personal preference.  But I do recommend spending your money on something you value, because then, you'll always be happy with your decision.


XO-Stefanie