I love photos, As in, I have probably close to 10,000 of my daughter, and she’s only 3. Nothing can quite capture a memory like a photo, and I think they are possibly some of the greatest gifts you can give others. The problem is, many photo projects quickly lose their luster, and end up collecting dust. They can be cheesy, but they definitely don’t have to be! Before you go hog-wild and start creating decks of cards for grandpa with your kids faces placed all over, check out some of these thoughtful but useful photo projects.
Source: Snapfish.com
1. Coffee Mug
At first thought, a coffee mug with your child’s face on it may seem dorky. However, think about how often you drink coffee (or tea). Every day right? What better way to incorporate your favorite photos, then onto an item you get to look at every day? A photo mug is also a great way to keep your coworkers from stealing your coffee cup from the office kitchen, and would make a grandparent pretty happy too!
Snapfish.com has tons of designs for making the cutest coffee cup around, featuring your kids!
2. Coasters
Nothing says a great gift like a table rescued from the scorn of a water mark, am I right? (oh, that’s just me then?) No, but seriously. Some of the greatest gifts are ones you’ll actually use, and everyone needs coasters. In my opinion, you can never have enough because most of us have multiple tables in our homes, from kitchen tables, to coffee tables and nightstands. There are all types of coasters you can make and we have a great tutorial right here for your own tile version!
Source: Shutterfly.com
3. Calendar
I live and breathe by my calendar, and I know many others do too. Sure, I use my phone for big plans, but my calendar is my go-to, day-to-day saving grace. Photo calendars take it to the next level, allowing you to create collages for each month, and even adding pictures of your family to specific dates like birthdays and anniversaries. The designs are endless! These make perfect grandparent gifts, but are also a great way to add color and personality to your own annual calendar. Wall calendars not your thing? Then try out the year at a glance versions that can be made into magnets, or a cool flip over desk version.
I make all my calendars using Shutterfly.com, and I highly recommend them!
Source: MixBook.com
4. Photo Books
I don’t know a single person alive who doesn’t love a photo album of their child or grandchild. With almost everything going digital these days, it’s not uncommon for many parents to only have their kids pictures stored up on the cloud, not in a book they can sit down and flip through. Get your precious memories onto paper and create photo books. They are simple to make using basic software, and there are tons of websites that offer their services. Keep an eye out for free books and coupons, and you’ll hardly be spending anything for priceless memories.
Source: TinyPrints.com
5. Notepad
Yes, you can finally throw away those Realtor notepads in exchange for one that will constantly remind you of your loved ones. Create your own stylish and meaningful notes with these customizable notepads. Note writing will never be the same again!
TinyPrints.com has tons of designs to choose from!
Source: ShopTerrain.com
6. Locket
The locket is a timeless piece of jewelry, and no wonder. No other accessory lets you keep images of your loved ones so close to your heart. Whether you make your own, or invest in a beautiful piece like those pictured above, your photos will be kept safe and sound.
You can get these gorgeous enameled lockets right now over at ShopTerrain.com.






