Let’s talk about something I wish more people did after a photo session:
PRINT THE PHOTOS.
I know. I know. Your phone has 14,000 pictures on it...or maybe 30,000, I won't judge. 😂 Your gallery is sitting safely in the cloud. And surely you’ll get around to making that album...someday.
But there is something pretty special about having your family photos outside of your phone—on your walls, in an album that sticky fingers can look through, or tucked into a frame on your wall where you get to see them every day.
As a photographer, I’m often asked:
“Where should I print my photos?”
And the answer is… it depends!
There are lots of great options, but different labs are better suited for different budgets and projects. So I put together this little guide to help you decide where to start.
Budget-Friendly: Costco Photo Center/Shutterfly
Costco/Shutterfly can be a really practical option when you want to print a bunch of standard-sized photos without spending a fortune.
It's especially handy for classic 4x6 prints, Lots of photos at once, Everyday family photos, photo books. You can often find great deals on Shutterfly!
Mid-Tier: Mixbook & Mpix
If you're ready to spend a little more and want a step up in quality and finishing options, these are two companies I would look at:
Mixbook
Mixbook is especially fun if you're looking to create a photo book or album. I personally LOVE their calendars, the quality is beautiful and customizable.
This is a great choice for family photo books, vacation books, yearbooks, baby books, and storytelling albums
Mpix
Mpix is another excellent option for high-quality prints, photo books, and wall art. I personally love their prints! I have sent prints from them as gifts on multiple occasions.
It's a nice middle ground when you want something that feels more special than a drugstore print but aren't quite ready to invest in professional lab products. Mpix is known for excellent color accuracy, making it a good choice when the photos themselves are important to you.
High-End: WHCC
If you're looking for professional-grade products and beautiful heirloom pieces, White House Custom Colour is where I recommend stepping up to a professional photo lab.
WHCC offers premium-quality prints, albums, wall art, and frames
This is the kind of lab I think about when we're talking about taking your favorite images and turning them into something you'll have for years and years.
While the price point is high, the quality is AMAZING! A friend of mine in Michigan only prints through them and seeing my photography on WHCC's quality of print is *chef's kiss.*
Local: ARI Graphix & Signs
One option I love having right here in Albuquerque:
ARI Graphix & Signs
If you're looking for a local option for a larger display, ARI Graphix can help you create so many things. Their shop is SOOOOOOO COOL!!!! I was like a kid in a candy shop on a recent tour of their facility.
They're a great choice for things like large wall prints, canvases, display pieces, custom signage and graphics, wraps on cars, etched designs.
I won't send you here for standard 4x6 or 5x7 prints, but if you're thinking BIG and CREATIVE, a local business like ARI can be a fantastic resource. And I love the idea of keeping some of that business right here in our community.
A little note from your photographer
When you receive your gallery from me, you have the ability to download and print your images for personal use. If you have questions about what size to print, what type of product to choose, or which images would look best on your walls, ask me!
I would much rather help you get your photographs printed than have your beautiful gallery sit untouched in a digital folder for the next five years.
Your photos deserve to be seen because your photos help create the story of your home, your relationships, your business, and your life!
