8 Reasons Why You Should Print Your Pictures
There is nothing more precious to me than sitting down and leafing through old family albums and reminiscing with my children and family. I love their peals of laugher when they see their messy faces and underwear on their heads. I will always cherish the moments sitting with my grandma and asking her a thousand questions about the faces and people forgotten and now only remembered by her. I love to hold the images of days long forgotten in my hands, especially the feel of film and old black & white photos. The aging photos with wrinkled edges make me feel like I've discovered an ancient treasure.
In those moments I realized that in a 100 years from now, no one will likely remember my name other than my children and maybe my grandchildren. By the time my great grandchildren come along I will be almost forgotten like my unknown ancestors before me. During these times, I often wonder what technology will exist when I'm gone and how my children will review the images of their past. Will they pull out boxes of old SD cards, flash drives, CD's or log into my iCloud account and search the 35,000 images I currently have? (Knowing by they time they reach adulthood I'm sure this number will have tripled).
What then is the answer? I'm not sure, but in a world that often feels dominated by screens, there’s something undeniably special about having tangible reminders of our cherished moments right in our living spaces. Albums and printed pictures on the walls are the simplest ways to display your favorite images. For families, especially those with children, displaying photographs around the home isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it’s a vital part of creating a nurturing and connected environment. Here’s eight reasons why physiologist and photographers agree that putting up pictures is so important!
1.Creating a Sense of Belonging
When children see their family photos displayed prominently in the home, it fosters a sense of belonging. They understand their place within the family narrative, reinforcing the idea that they are part of something bigger. Whether it’s a candid shot from a summer picnic or a formal portrait, these images serve as constant reminders of love, support, and connection.
2.Cultivating Memories
Photographs are more than just images; they are gateways to memories. When children pass by a framed picture of a birthday celebration or a family vacation, they can relive those moments. This encourages storytelling—children will ask questions, share what they remember, and even create new stories inspired by those images. It’s a wonderful way to engage in family history and encourage imagination.
3.Encouraging Emotional Growth
Seeing their own faces in happy moments helps children develop a positive self-image. It reinforces their understanding of joy, love, and shared experiences. These visuals can also provide comfort during challenging times, reminding them of happier days and the strength of familial bonds.
4. Building Family Traditions
Displaying photos creates a visual timeline of your family’s journey, which can instill a sense of tradition. As children grow, they can witness the changes over the years, from their first steps to graduation days. This continuity builds a narrative that children can identify with and cherish as they grow older.
5.ENCOURAGING CREATIVITY AND CONVERSATION
A well-curated photo wall can spark conversations that might not otherwise happen. It invites family members to share their feelings about certain events or people captured in the photographs. Moreover, you can involve your children in choosing which images to display, fostering their creativity and helping them take ownership of their family’s story.
6. CREATING A PERSONAL SANCTUARY
Your home should be a place where everyone feels comfortable and secure. Incorporating family photos adds a personal touch that transforms a house into a home. This sense of warmth and intimacy is particularly important for children, as it can make their living space feel safe and inviting.
7. TEACHING THE VALUE OF MEMORIES
In an age where everything is digital, teaching children the value of physical photos can be a meaningful lesson. It emphasizes the importance of preserving memories in tangible forms. Encourage your kids to create their own photo projects—scrapbooks, collages, or even simple frames—so they can learn to appreciate the beauty of memories captured in time.
8. INSPIRING FAMILY TIME
Having photos displayed can encourage families to spend more time together. It might inspire you to recreate memories, plan new adventures, or simply engage in conversations about the past. The photos act as prompts for connection, reminding everyone of the joy of shared experiences.
Incorporating family photographs into your home decor is more than just a stylistic choice; it’s an investment in your family’s emotional well-being. These tangible items remind us of our shared history, foster connections, and create a nurturing atmosphere for children. Don't worry about making a perfectly curated wall or album. One of my favorite way to display photos from my phone is to print them off and place them in small linen photo boxes around my house. So, dig into those digital archives, print out your favorites, and transform your home into a gallery of love and memories. Your walls, hearts, and your family will thank you for it!
