At our house, getting our Christmas card photo takes a lot of time and effort on the back end.  It typically entails some tears, a change of clothes, and at least one frowny face.  Before it’s all over, I usually shout, “Smile and look like you’re having fun, darnit!”   Yep, that makes for the perfect holiday photo all right.   This year, I’m changing tactics.  The photo session will be on the back burner. Instead, I’m focusing on photo gift ideas.  A couple of years ago, I made the book below and it’s still a favorite around here.  Bonus:  My kids actually like seeing the pictures we took.

Gift books are always special to loved ones.  Filled with memories and momentos, they’re the perfect way to preserve your digital photos in a book form.  There’s no scrapbooking skill necessary.  No glue dots were harmed in the process.  Instead, you breeze through the easy-to-follow screens to create a book that’s all your own.  Even better, you can save the finished product and just reprint extras for the whole family.  Your gift lift can be checked off in a matter of minutes!   Now’s the perfect time to create those gifts!

There are so many fun photo options these days.  It’s simple to download a collage app, edit the image, and send it off to be printed. Pick it up on your way  home from work and you have the insta-gift!  You could also create a canvas print or a sleek aluminized photo.  Also, consider making a photo blanket or quilt.  I’ve even seen photo cakes!  These unique gifts show that you put some thought into the process.

What types of photo gifts do you like to give or receive?