Tips from a Santa Barbara Family Photographer


You’ve just received your online gallery, and the images are popping off the screen. You can’t wait to share them, print them, and relive those joyful moments again and again. But before you dive in, here are three important things to do (plus one bonus tip) to help you protect, enjoy, and make the most of your family photographs for years to come.


Whether you’ve worked with a Santa Barbara family photographer before or this is your first time, these simple steps will make your gallery experience seamless and lasting.

1. Download and Back Up Your Family Photos


Digital galleries are convenient, but don’t rely on a single link or email for safekeeping. Here’s what to do once your gallery goes live:


  • Download both file sizes. Choose “Web Size” for easy sharing and social media, and “Full Resolution” for printing high-quality images at any size.
  • Back them up in at least two places. Use an external hard drive and a cloud service like Dropbox, Google Drive, or iCloud. This protects your photos from accidental loss.
  • Name and organize your folder. Include the session type, family name, and year so your photos are easy to find later.


Backing up your gallery ensures your family photo session becomes a lasting part of your story—not a one-time experience.

2. Refresh the Screens You See Every Day


Family photos aren’t meant to sit in a folder. Let them brighten your everyday spaces:


  • Update your computer screensaver with a rotating slideshow of your favorite images.
  • Change your phone wallpaper to a new candid or portrait.
  • Add recent photos to your digital frames around the house, so you’re surrounded by love and connection in your daily life.


Small changes like these are the easiest way to enjoy your gallery long after delivery.

3. Print and Display Your Family Photos


Digital is great, but print brings your images to life. Your session is meant to be seen, held, and passed down.


  • Order archival-quality prints from your gallery store or your preferred professional lab.
  • Swap out older frames to make space for fresh moments on your walls.
  • Consider custom wall art like canvas wraps or framed fine art prints. These pieces turn your home into a gallery of the people you love most.


As a Santa Barbara family photographer, I always encourage families to print at least a few images—you’ll never regret seeing those memories daily.

Bonus: Gift Albums to Loved Ones


Your session includes a luxury photo album, but don’t forget the grandparents, godparents, or close relatives. Duplicate albums are easy to order and make deeply meaningful gifts. They’re timeless, heartfelt, and appreciated long after the holidays or birthdays have passed.

Make the Most of Your Family Photography Experience


Whether your family photos were taken in the golden light of a Santa Barbara beach or in the comfort of your home, these steps will help you get the most from your gallery.


Need help selecting print sizes or designing a wall layout? I’m always happy to help guide you through the next steps.


Thanks again for trusting me with your family’s story—it’s an honor I don’t take lightly.