We’ve all got hundreds, and possibly tens of thousands of digital photos on our devices. For the most part, they sit on those devices and collect digital dust. So this week on Tech Talk on CTV, we’ve got a few ways you can bring them to life.
1. Print Them!
Pocket-sized photo printers are available and allow convenient at-home or on-the-go printing of your photos instantly. I love how easy it is to operate this printer, and that it’s so small you can take it to parties, or nights out, so you’ve got a virtual photo0 booth at the ready!
Polaroid Zip photo printer.
Polaroid Zip
The Zip is a small palm-sized printer that used photo paper sheets to print pics instantly.
Polaroid Socialmatic
The lap-sized Polaroid Socialmatic.
Vintage Polaroid camera.
The Socialmatic is a hybrid when it comes to photo printing. This device is actually a camera and printer combo. You can take pictures and print them on the spot; it takes about 20 seconds to spit out a small 2×3″ photo with a stick-back option. These photos are printed on a paper-like edge-to-edge film. While the camera is much smaller and slimmer than the old fashioned Polaroid Instant camera you may remember, it is large and rather unwieldy. There is convienience in having an all in one camera and printer, however.
Fujifilm Instax Share
Another pocket or palm sized printer, I found this one to be the easiest to use. I also preferred the film paper used by Fujifilm; it looks much more like the traditional Polaroid film with its white papery edge frame that you can doodle or write on.
2. Bring them into your home!
From wall hangings to toss cushions, you can turn your photos into beautiful decor art.
Toss Cushions by Photobox
This is a great idea I bet more folks would grab on to if they knew about it. I made some cushion covers featuring 2 major Calgary city landmarks. If you have a favourite place, a flower you love or just a photo you took that you’re majorly proud of, putting it on a cushion is a great way to show it off and celebrate what you love. Toss cushions also lend themselves nicely to using squared off Instagram photos.
Photo Fabric by Spoonflower
Take your favourite landmark, person or event and put it on fabric. Printing your own fabric gives you a lot of flexibility with how you use the image. You can make an apron, table linens, napkins, even clothing if that’s your bag. The possibilities are endless, particularly because if you can’t find just the right fabric for a project, you can make you own.
Wrapping Paper & Wallpaper by Spoonflower
A great way to present custom gifts, and particularly corporate gifts, wrapping paper will make your gift stand out. Again, if you have a favourite place, scene or photo, you can also look at putting it on wallpaper, for a permanent and prominent reminder.
Canvas Art by Photobox
Getting photos printed on canvas is easier and more common now, but it still looks slick. Getting a wrapped canvas print of a favourite photo is a great way to create art for your home and keep memories close.
3. Create Accessories!
Cell Phone Cases by Photobox
Printing durable photo cases with a photo of your choice has never been easier. Photobox has cases for a variety of cell phones including Samsung Galaxy, iPhones and iPads. Put your baby or child on your phone case, or use a favourite location or vacation snap.
4. Eat Them!
Many bakeries can print your digital photos on edible paper with edible inks, meaning they can change cakes and cookies from boring, to personalized. Check for bakeries in your area, but we got ours from Cakeworks in Calgary.
What have you done with your photos that’s unique and memorable? Let me know in comments below!
