If you know me or have been a client, then you know I love transforming images into artwork! I am passionate about helping others create something special with their favorite photos. Whether it’s wall art or albums, prints or gifts, I believe it is so important to print what you want to preserve. Taking the photos is one thing, but investing in artwork for a home is an amazing way to make a space feel more like your own and ensure your photos will be enjoyed in the future.

A Legacy Photo Project

A wonderful client contacted me asking for help preserving her family legacy with a photo wall. She had a blank wall that she wanted to fill with three generations of her family photos. We talked, measured, and discussed the overall look she wanted. The plan was to design something clean and modern to fit her space. Using my design software, I made a few virtual layouts so she could see what the final product would look like. After finalizing the design we took a look at metal frame selections and decided on the perfect one.

Next we focused on selecting the final photos. We knew we needed 10 images to fit the layout. The photos she wanted to use were mostly old original prints and a few digital images from more recent years. The original prints needed to be scanned so they could be printed.

I scanned the photos into a high quality format and then retouched the digital files to repair some of the wear and tear of the old prints. I edited them so they would have a cohesive and timeless look despite being decades apart. It all needed to work together so we decided black and white photos for the entire wall was the way to do this.

Three generations of photos…. vintage photographs of her parent’s wedding, her own wedding, and sentimental photos from her children’s childhood all came together beautifully.

This client went from old images tucked away never looked at to now having a stand-out gallery wall that brings them joy when they walk by and preserves a family legacy! I was so happy with how this project came together and this family was thrilled with the result.

I love that this not only looks great, personalizes their home, but it honors their heritage every day!

Tips to Create a Gallery Wall:

Pick your photos first! It’s ok to start with more than you need. It’s good to have options.
Make a plan. This means measure the space and decide on a layout. Lay it on the floor or draw it out to see what you like best. Do you prefer a cohesive symmetrical look or prefer an eclectic style? Go with whatever speaks to you!
Select your frames. You can choose all the same color or mix & match. It is recommended to space frames 2-3 inches apart.
Print your final photo selections! I recommend www.mpix.com for good quality and quick service.
Do a final layout on the floor to make sure you like it. I’ve done the wrapping paper trick and it works great! Lay the frames on the wrapping paper on the floor and trace the exact spots for the frames and hooks. Hang the paper on the wall and nail the frames where you marked on top of the paper. Remove the paper, put the fames back, and voila!
Stand back and make adjustments. Use command strips to secure frames from shifting.
If you are still struggling, hire my friend and local business owner Meredith from Frame Avenue Design to do it for you! You won't regret it!

If you want to learn more about my process or start a photo project of your own you can contact me here or at danielle@daniellesaraphotography.com.