The family photos we display in our homes do more than decorate our walls. They help tell the story of who we are, where we belong, and the people who love us. We all have hundreds– or thousands!– of family pictures tucked away on our phones and computers. But there’s something so special about bringing those memories into our everyday lives through wall art, photo albums, and other tangible means. And for kids, those photographs may hold more meaning than you realize!

Kids love regularly seeing photographs of themselves along with the people who love them. Whether it’s a family portrait in the living room or a collection of favorite moments along the hallway or stairwell, these images offer a visible reminder of how they’re valued and where they belong. Studies in child psychology have shown the importance of sharing family stories, and how photographs can help kids especially reflect on their relationships, memories, and self-esteem by having that visible evidence that they are a valued family member. Remember that camping trip? How old was I here? What were we laughing about? These seemingly small exchanges give children opportunities to revisit meaningful experiences, see how much they are adored, and strengthen their connections with the people around them.

Printed photographs just have more power to invite us to pause, remember, sit close around an album, point to on the wall, and reflect together. All these reasons are why I believe your family’s photographs deserve to be more than digital files on a computer, or swiped through on your phone. Because photographs are also about celebrating how unique we are, and the people who make us feel at home. I love helping families transform their favorite moments and milestones into beautiful printed artwork and albums that can be kept and cherished for both your lifetime and theirs.

Wall Art, the right photo is a piece displayed in a clients child’s room

The Heirloom Album

Left: Wall art design in a clients family room, Right: The “Reveal Box” with 10 matted prints

The Grandparent Album

Kelly (the photographer) showing off some newly hung wall art in a clients home

Research & Further Reading

• Wheeler, M. — Phototherapy: A First Attempt to Consider the Use of Photographs in Art Therapy
• Fivush, R. (2011) — The Development of Autobiographical Memory
• Bohanek, J. G., et al. (2006) — Family Narrative Interaction and Children’s Sense of Self