How to Get Photo Cards
You may or may not be quite clear on what I mean by photo cards, so let me first clarify. You know those lovely cards you get at Christmas with family photos or the first birthday invitation with a photo of the guest of honor? Those are what I mean by photo cards. They’re really great and a cornerstone of what I do. That’s why I’m sharing this post with you today.
However, before we get to that, you can also head over to the Journey Junkies page for a special discount on any printed designs feature photos. This coupon is just for photography clients who are ordering prints of their photo cards. If you’re not a member of the club, sign up here, it’s free.
Design with Photography
For several years now I’ve been a designer. I’ve sold designs for all of life’s “Journeys”. This includes wedding invitations, holiday cards, newborn announcements, and more. It’s been great but one thing I noticed time and time again, is that my clients would send me a photo to add to their design. That photo wouldn’t necessarily “go” with the design. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still lovely but I had a desire to offer this service to my clients instead.
I’ve always had a passion for photography and it’s been a side hobby of mine for years. That’s why I offer both design and photography now. Now, if you made your way to my site as a design client and you think you don’t have a need for photos, or vice-versa, I’m here to show you a different perspective.
There are so many different ways you can use photos with design. No, you don’t have to be a photo client to shop my designs. You can shop those here as much as you want, and do not need to add photos to them. However, if you’re considering a photo session but you’re not quite sure if a design is something you “need” that’s exactly why this post exists. All of my photo packages, even mini sessions, include a design of your choice.
Types of Photo Cards
For a lot of sessions, there’s a clear connection between design and photos from your session. You have a newborn session, you get newborn announcements to send to friends and family. Or, schedule a first birthday session and get party invites to send out. Nevertheless, I do realize hat it’s not always that “cut and dry”. Those of you looking to schedule a family session may think you don’t have any need for a design. However, you’re definitely wrong. I’ve got 9 different ways you can utilize the “design” part of your package. Each of the 9 ways comes with hundreds of styles. You are not limited to the designs in my shop either, I create unique designs for each of my clients. I take the photos from your session and create a design to match your style.
Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s get to all the different options! Please also note that you’re not limited to these options. If you have another idea not listed, please contact with me with it!
Birthday Invite
First up is one of the obvious ones, but it’s a good one to remember. The birthday invite is a perfect use of the design. Most frequently, I see this being used for a first birthday, but it definitely doesn’t have to be. Use it for every age!
Anniversary Invitation or Gift
This next category can go a couple of ways and I want to be sure you understand both options. Plan an anniversary party and send out invitations with your photos. Or, create a unique gift. I love this below of the original wedding photo with one of the photos from your session.
Graduation Invite
Another clear design option is the graduation invite. If you’re having a session for the new or soon-to-be graduate, then you’ll definitely want to take advantage of an invitation or announcement featuring the graduate. Not having a party? Make it a thank you card instead. People will love the personal touch.
Newborn Announcement
Next up, these newborn announcements are a personal favorite. They don’t have to be announcements either, they can be thank you cards for the lovely baby shower gifts.
Mother’s Day Gift
These next two ideas are ones you may or may not have thought of. Photos make great gifts and you can use the design to create a meaningful and truly unique gift for mom. The session itself can serve as the gift, but with it you’ll receive a design too. This design can feature a quote, a special message, or more. Use it for a Mother’s day card or frame it and Mom can keep it forever.
Father’s Day Gift
The Father’s Day gift idea is basically the same as Mother’s Day, just you know, for dads.
Holiday Card
A holiday card is a classic way to use your design and perfect for our holiday mini-sessions.
Valentine’s Gift
Don’t forget Valentine’s Day when deciding how to use your design. If you’re having a couples’ session, then definitely consider this for your design. Photos are always a good gift.
Home Decor
Finally, I’m sure when you book a photography session you consider the fact that you may want to print them and hang them in your house. However what you may not have considered is that you can add a little design to the photo or photos to give them a special touch. Home decor is a great use of your design. I can add a quote, create a collage, and more. Just check out some of the options below.
But Wait, There’s More!
I said it before, but I’m saying it again: you’re not limited to these options. One of my absolute favorite things to do is to create a design completely unique to the client. If you have an idea you want me to consider, don’t hesitate to ask.
Need Help Planning Your Celebration?
Hi, I’m Jamie, and I have two great loves: creating and traveling. I’m a blogger, designer, photographer who would love to help you enjoy life’s special moments or, what I like to call life’s “journeys”. From parties to vacations, I’m here to make them beautiful and easy. I provide the tools you need to plan, celebrate, and remember, without all the hassle. Contact me for custom orders and collaborations. When I’m not creating or traveling, you’ll find me at a yoga studio or with my nose in a book and cat on my lap. Read more about me!