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If you’re shopping for the sentimentalist on your list, we have a few photo gift ideas that will, at the very least, bring a smile to their face. These days, a photo gift doesn’t necessarily mean a leather-bound album filled with pages and pages of sweet moments over the years. We live in the digital age, meaning there are so many new and easy ways to access our most heartfelt memories that don’t involve paper cuts. Luckily for you, we’ve included all such options on our carefully curated list below. Wine Bottle Opener
From a sleek frame with a capacity for thousands of photos that play on a slideshow to a printer that delivers the tangible version of the pictures on your smartphone in a matter of seconds, there are a lot of solid picks ahead. No matter what you end up snagging for the friend or family member who enjoys a good tug on the heartstrings from time to time, rest assured that they’ll instantly fall in love with their gift.
Here’s the catch, though: Because so many of the photo gift ideas on our list are custom or personalized, they don’t ship out immediately after purchasing. So, if you’re planning on getting a gift worth a thousand words, perhaps consider not waiting until the last minute to place your order.
Shop more of our favorite gift guides below!
Remember Sawyer's View-Master from the early 1960s? Well, these may be made by a more contemporary manufacturer, but the concept is the same. First, make your own reel using images you love then pop it into the slot and click the tiny lever to see them on a reel. There's nothing sweeter than a little nostalgia.
We love the minimal and pared-down aesthetic of this elegant gallery. From the black and white photos to the wide mat within the frame, there's a lot to appreciate. Here's how it works: Simply pick your favorite photo from each month of the last year. Minted will take care of the rest.
This gift is picture-perfect for any occasion. From Christmas to wedding anniversaries, your favorite photos can come to life with a customized lamp.
Turn your favorite song into something more personal with this custom album cover art on a glass screen.
If your crew is more into game time than screen time, you can't go wrong with a set of traditional playing cards outfitted with family photos. Just don't let the sweet picks distract you from winning the game.
We'll take these adorable fridge magnets, please. Available in an array of sizes, these make for a sweet start (and end) to the day, especially for those who make the fridge their first and last stop of the day.
If you consider yourself a non-traditional, skip the classic photo frames and opt for something a bit more unique, like photo tiles. Unlike typical photos, these ones don't bend, which helps them stay upright in their wooden stands. They also won't smudge, so feel free to touch them whenever you're rearranging your collection.
These may not be the socks they'll wear to a black tie event, but they're definitely perfect for work from home days or family brunches. Rest assured, they're as cozy as they are cheeky.
A step up from a traditional photo album, this custom hardcover album turns their favorite memories into a beautiful coffee table book. And if you're looking for a more affordable option, the brand's custom soft cover photo books start at $20.
If your loved one is a doodler, journaler, or list-maker, they'll be thrilled to unwrap this colorblock journal featuring your (or their) favorite photo.
Sometimes you are so wrapped up in other things that you totally forget what day it is. Enter this charming desk calendar that features 12 photos you picked out.
Make their go-to morning coffee even better with a mug that looks plain—until they fill it up and the heat reveals a personalized photo design.
There's nothing more old school when it comes to photo gift ideas than the classic gold locket. This one from Mark & Graham comes in several styles, all of which can be monogrammed. Just make sure you fit the picture to the pendant before you print!
If you're looking to think outside of the box, this mini printer will make a copy of your favorite memories from your phone. Now you're able to edit each photo and place it in a custom frame.
A typical air freshener you'd pick up at a convenience store doesn't make for a very thoughtful gift, if you ask us. On the other hand, one that you have decorated with a sweet photo and a custom scent is a totally different story.
Make any gift more personal with this custom photo-wrapping paper that's almost too cute to open.
Calling all voracious readers. This durable book mark, which is complete with a tassel, is a simple and thoughtful gift that will make their favorite page-turners even more enjoyable.
It's never been easier to keep your loved ones with you at all times. These adorable metal keychains are completely customizable with whatever photo tickles your fancy.
Staying hydrated throughout the day is paramount, so if you want to get someone a stylish bottle that keeps their beverages cold for hours on end, don't pick something boring. Go with an insulated stainless steel option that features a photo of someone they hold dear.
The Lovebox is exactly what it sounds like: It's a messaging device that pairs with an app to deliver personalized affection. Opt for the photo version and send both sweet nothings and photos at the same time. This is a great gift for the tech-savvy ones on your list.
Medgina Saint-Elien covers everything your home needs. She writes about exciting new product launches, hands-on reviews, and the "lightbulb" moments in every maker's story. In overseeing key HB editorial franchises, including the Live Better Awards, Saint-Elien champions the work of BIPOC entrepreneurs in the design and beauty industries. In addition to House Beautiful, her work has been published in Byrdie, Snapchat, and more. Outside of work, the writer and poet can be found documenting her travels on social media and saving memes for future use.
Jessica Cherner is House Beautiful’s associate shopping editor and knows where to find the best high-low pieces for any room.
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Medgina Saint-Elien covers everything your home needs. She writes about exciting new product launches, hands-on reviews, and the \"lightbulb\" moments in every maker's story. In overseeing key HB editorial franchises, including the Live Better Awards, Saint-Elien champions the work of BIPOC entrepreneurs in the design and beauty industries. In addition to House Beautiful, her work has been published in Byrdie, Snapchat, and more. Outside of work, the writer and poet can be found documenting her travels on social media and saving memes for future use.
Sublimation Bottle Opener Jessica Cherner is House Beautiful’s associate shopping editor and knows where to find the best high-low pieces for any room.