From Lens to Legacy: Why Printing Photos Still Matters

I just had to sit down and share something that’s not just close to my heart but is also incredibly important—why printing photos still matters in our digital age.

In today’s world, our lives are dominated by screens and gadgets. We’re quick to snap photos with our smartphones or save memories on our laptops, but in the process, we might be missing out on something truly special—the profound feeling of holding a printed photograph in our hands.

graphic image for the blog- Why Printing Photos Still Matters 
The title appears on top of a print portraying a pregnant woman

Why Printing Photos Still Matters

Do you remember those days when your parents would pull out a disposable camera? They’d wind it up, take a shot, and then the anticipation would begin. Well, first we had to wait till all the 36 or 24 photos were taken. Then we had to wait until the photos were developed at the local printing shop, sometimes a week later. More often than not, albums were filled with blurred shots, closed eyes, or the infamous red eyes because of the use of the flash. I’m sure every child of my generation has at least one of those! (or all of them!! – I’m a kid from the 80s)

But here’s the thing: those albums and photos hold a special place in our hearts because those images are REAL. They are on any screen, they are right there in your hands.

mum and daughter looking at a photo album versus girl looking at photos on the phone

That’s where my passion for printing your photos and creating beautiful albums takes root. I was lucky enough to grow up with boxes and albums of photos. My dad had a bit of passion for photography and a great uncle made a lot of videos with that kind of huge device thingy there used to be years ago. So I am quite lucky to have memories of me as a child.

Now, let’s fast forward to today. We have thousands and thousands of images stored on our phones, mixed in with screenshots of interior design inspirations, recipes, and a myriad of digital clutter.

In this digital avalanche, how do we ever find the time to scroll back and rediscover the images that truly matter? And what if those important memories are deleted by mistake or lost?

The Power of Tangibility

I truly believe that we have to print memories that matter to us.

With digitals now we have the great advantage of choosing what we can print. It’s not more a game of waiting and hoping! You already know what you have but you have to take some time and choose the few that you like and that will make a great place in a frame or an album. I know, it takes time and effort and that’s why most of the time we don’t do it. We are all busy!

That’s why when clients come to me for a London family photoshoot I always suggest they choose a printed product, be it a beautiful custom photo album or some stunning fine art prints for the wall.

When you invest in a family photoshoot, it’s not just about capturing those super special memories. It’s about bringing them to life, making them tangible, and weaving them into the fabric of your daily existence.

Why pay to capture these cherished moments only to have them tucked away on your computer or stored on a USB stick?

Imagine having a consistent style of album for each stage of your family’s journey sitting on your shelves. Or a collection of beautiful photos elegantly displayed on your wall. How different will they impact your daily life? Imagine a smiling portrait of your kids on the hallway wall. It will surely put a smile on your face when you come home from a long day at work. But if that photo is buried in the forgotten place of your digital real, it will never give you the same emotion.

Related post: The Therapeutic Influence of Photos on Daily Well-being

living room displaying 3 framed baby's portraits on the wall

Investing in Memories

I can’t help but feel a sense of joy when I think about holding a physical album in my hands, flipping through its pages, and reliving those moments. It’s not just pictures; it’s the essence of those moments that come flooding back. It’s connecting with your past, sharing stories with your little ones, and sharing a good laugh at those questionable outfits and embarrassing hairstyles you once rocked.

So, if you’re thinking about a family photoshoot, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take that extra step of preserving those professionally taken images in a beautifully crafted album or timeless frames. Don’t let your cherished memories get lost in the digital shuffle. Instead, invest in their longevity, share them with future generations, and make them a part of your daily life.

In the end, it’s not just about taking photos; it’s about preserving feelings and memories that you can hold in your hands. With a tangible album, your memories become more than pixels on a screen—they become a living, breathing part of your family’s story.

Related post: What’s the Value of a Photograph?

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Valentina | London Motherhood Photographer (@by_valentina)

I hope I made you understand why printing photos still matters.

If you would like to create a special memory for your family, maybe you’re pregnant and want to document your maternity journey or your baby is turning one and would love to capture this milestone, I’ll be thrilled to help you. From planning the shoot to choosing the right photographic product for your home!

But now tell me in the comments, do you keep your photos digitally on your phone, or preserve them printed, maybe in albums to look back on occasionally?

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    I’ve never been a huge fan of Valentine’s Day - maybe because it’s also my name day (yes, in Italy that’s a thing!). But beyond that, I’ve always felt that love isn’t about just one day. It’s about all the little moments, the quiet gestures, and the everyday ways we show we care.

Love is precious, valuable, and worth celebrating every single day. When you have someone you truly cherish—whether a partner, a friend, or yourself—hold on to them tightly, through the big milestones and the quiet in-between moments.

So today, let’s celebrate love in all its forms. 

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We took time to walk, talk, and connect - supporting each other as women, mums, and entrepreneurs. The morning ended with something truly special: a beautifully styled brunch, complete with stunning flowers and décor by @tipiangels and @fentonyardflowers, @shimmerandsoiree and delicious food and drinks provided by @stiritupmealkits and @bringthebabida.

And of course, I was honoured to capture the magic through my lens. It was a morning full of laughter, inspiration, and empowerment - just what Galentine’s is all about.

Here’s to the power of women supporting women! ✨

Sending love to all my fellow mums and friends today - how are you celebrating your own connections this month?

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    Reading your kind words fills my heart with so much joy! 

One of my greatest hopes for every session is that it feels like more than just a photoshoot. I want it to be an experience you treasure - a memory in itself.

I understand how overwhelming life can feel sometimes, especially with little ones. That’s why I create a space where you can relax, slow down, and just be yourself. It’s your time to connect with your loved ones. And those little moments - your baby grabbing your finger or curling up perfectly in your arms - those are the memories I aim to capture. 
Because these fleeting days deserve to be celebrated and preserved forever.

Yesterday, I shared my love with a complimentary matted print offer for February bookings. 

Today, I’d love if you could share some love with me. If you’ve recently visited my studio or worked with me in the past year, I’d truly appreciate it if you left a review on Google. 

Your feedback means the world to me, and it helps my small business grow and reach more families like yours. Thank you for your continued support! 

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    February: The month of love! 💕

This month, I want to share some love with all my amazing clients. For February only, I’m offering a complimentary stunning matted print when you book a session—whether it's newborn, maternity, or family—the choice is yours!

If you're expecting a spring or summer baby, now is the perfect time to plan your session and take advantage of this special offer. Imagine holding a beautiful print of your precious memories, ready to display and cherish forever.

Don’t wait—let’s create something unforgettable together. 
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    Are you welcoming a new little one in 2025? Whether it’s your first baby or you're growing your family, announcing your pregnancy is such a special and magical moment! 

Here are some creative ways to share your exciting news with loved ones:

Tiny Shoes: line up your family's shoes and add a pair of baby booties to the lineup—a sweet, visual surprise.

Surprise in the Family Photo: plan a family photo session and subtly include a baby onesie or a little shoe. Watch their reactions when they notice!

Big Sibling Alert: if you have kids or a pet, let them take center stage. Use a sign or T-shirt that says, “Big Brother” or “Big Sister”

A Special Gift Box: surprise loved ones with a keepsake box that includes an ultrasound photo, a tiny onesie, and a card with your due date.

Video Highlights: put together a short video documenting moments like your positive test, an ultrasound, or your growing bump.

Which idea is your favourite?  Or, if you've already shared your big news, how did you announce it?
Let me know in the comments.

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