Hidden in your camera roll on your phone are thousands of precious memories. Instead of letting those photos collect digital dust, why not give them three-dimensional life by transforming them into tangible gift items? From cozy mugs to nostalgic ornaments, your favourite snapshots are waiting to be enjoyed.
Burlington family photographer Christine Murray knows photo gifts are more than just presents – they’re a way to show someone how much you care. “Whether it’s a moment frozen in time with a loved one, a reminder of a significant milestone, or even just a photo that brings a smile to their face, photo gifts have the power to evoke joy every time they’re seen or used,” says Murray.
Many of her clients love turning their photos into holiday cards. It’s a classic way to share cherished moments with friends and family! One of Murray’s favourite photo gifts was a custom photo blanket that a family ordered for grandparents. “It was such a unique way to celebrate their growing family and offer something cozy and heartfelt,” she says.
Another creative client made a series of photo ornaments for each family member. “It was a beautiful way to personalize their holiday décor and make it a tradition each year,” says Murray. If you want to take your photos off your camera roll and put them under the tree, consider these photo gift ideas:
Photo Mugs
Photo mugs are a practical yet sentimental gift, perfect for the coffee or tea lover in your life. Every sip will warm them with a happy memory or remind them of someone special. Fill the mug with hot chocolate mixes or their favourite coffee or tea blend to make the gift even sweeter.
Custom Ornaments
Holiday ornaments are a festive way to incorporate photos into your gift. You can even build a tradition by adding a new photo ornament each year.
Photo Calendar
The gift that lasts all year! A photo calendar can serve as a collection of the best moments of the year. It’s a practical and thoughtful gift.
Photo Blanket
Nothing says cozy like a soft personalized blanket. You can make a photo blanket with a large single image, or a series of photos in a collage. These make wonderful gifts for grandparents, offering warmth and comfort with a heartfelt touch.
Photo Puzzles
Photo puzzles are a fun and interactive way to turn a family portrait, a beloved pet, or a favourite vacation snapshot into a fun gift that brings people together – perfect for cozy holiday nights or quiet afternoons.
Photo Pillows
Print a beloved family photo onto a pillow that the recipient can display on their sofa or bed. This is a fun and unique way to integrate photos into everyday décor.
Custom Photo Books
A photo book is a beautiful way to create a narrative from your memories. These make perfect gifts for close family members and friends and can even be a fun DIY project that you can customize with personal captions or messages. To make your photo books even more special, buy someone a
subscription! Chatbooks offers photo book subscriptions with 4, 6 or 12 books per year, so you can share your memories all year round.
Framed Prints
Framed photo art is a timeless option and a beautiful way to keep memories alive. There are many options for turning your photos into wall art. Burlington Camera offers custom photo services and can help size photos up or down. “We create large print sizes and canvases as well as plaque mounted and float mounted photos,” says Rich Gibson, co-owner of Burlington Camera.
Photos are meant to be seen, so set those digital files free! You can share them as gifts to drink from, snuggle with, or hang on a Christmas tree. These personal keepsakes are sure to bring joy for years to come.
Where to Go Locally for Photo Gifts:
Burlington Camera, 489 Guelph Line, Burlington
Henry’s Burlington, 1250 Brant Street, Burlington
Henry’s Oakville, 2500 Hyde Park Gate, Oakville
Staples – staples.ca – multiple locations in Burlington and Oakville
Online Photo Gift Options:
Chatbooks – chatbooks.com
Mixbook – mixbook.com
Blacks – blacks.ca
Vistaprint – vistaprint.ca
