BEYOND WALL ART: CREATIVE WAYS TO DISPLAY FAMILY PORTRAITS
When most families think about printing portraits, they picture framed artwork on the wall. And while wall portraits are always beautiful, they are not the only way to enjoy your images.
Some of the most meaningful pieces are the ones you can hold: albums on the coffee table, acrylic blocks on a shelf, or folios you can easily move from room to room. These often become the most loved and handled keepsakes in your home.
Not every space has room for large frames, and not every image is meant to be printed big. Smaller pieces allow you to enjoy more of your favorite portraits instead of choosing just a few. They also make it easy to update your collection as your family grows.
Here are three favorite ways families display their portraits beyond traditional frames:
1. Heirloom Albums
Heirloom albums are professionally designed, flat-lay books with thick archival pages and cover options like photo covers or custom materials with debossing.
Families love them because they tell the full story of a session from beginning to end. They’re beautiful on a coffee table, easy to share with guests, and durable enough for little hands. They often become a favorite for children to flip through as they grow.
2. Acrylic Blocks
Acrylic blocks are thick, polished, freestanding pieces with your portrait mounted behind the acrylic, no frame needed.
They’re loved for their clean, modern look and versatility. Perfect for desks, shelves, nightstands, or mantels, they’re easy to move and refresh throughout the year. They also make meaningful gifts for grandparents and extended family.
3. Folios
Folios are hinged two-image displays, in 5x7 to 8x10 sizes.
They are a wonderful option for families who want variety without committing to permanent wall placement. They are easy to move around the home and just as easy to gift. They offer a simple, elegant way to enjoy favorite portraits in smaller spaces.
During our design consultations, we walk through all of these options together and help you create something that fits your home and your family.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to printed portraits. Every family chooses something different based on their space, style, and season of life. Most of our families end up with a blend of coffee table pieces and wall art.
Your family portraits were meant to be enjoyed in your home, not left on a screen. If you’re ready to plan your session and create something meaningful, we would love to help you design pieces your family will cherish for years to come.
JEAN JOHNSON PORTRAITS
LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER | PERSONAL ARTIST | FAMILY HISTORIAN
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Serving as senior portrait photographers for families in Sammamish, Issaquah, Snoqualmie, Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland, Mercer Island, North Bend, Carnation, Woodinville, and the greater Seattle area.