How to Properly Store Unframed Photos and Portraits: Tips for Preserving Family Memories

Houston newborn and maternity photographer, Lisa Carr at Belly to Baby Studios, shares her personal tips on “How To Properly Store Unframed Photos And Portraits” keeping family portraits safe for generations.

As a professional newborn photographer, I’ve spent years capturing moments meant to last generations. But recently, I had a deeply personal reminder of why proper photo preservation matters. While helping clean out my parents’ home, I found myself surrounded by a lifetime of portraits—images of relatives, milestones, and memories that shaped our family. I wanted to keep them all. But like many of us, I don’t have the wall or tabletop space to display every cherished photo. That left me with an important question:

How can I safely preserve these irreplaceable images without displaying them all?

Here’s what I’ve learned and what I recommend for anyone who wants to store unframed portraits and photographs the right way.

Step 1: Remove Photos from Frames Carefully
If your images are in old frames, gently remove them, especially if the frames aren’t archival or the glass is damaged. Old frames can trap moisture, dust, and acids that harm prints over time.

This also applies to albums where photos are glued to pages. Carefully separate the prints and discard any deteriorating pages.

Step 2: Protect Each Photo with Archival Sleeves

Place each photo in a clear, acid-free archival sleeve to prevent fingerprints, scratches, and chemical damage. These sleeves shield your prints from light, dust, and air.

Sleeves come in many sizes, so choose the right fit for your photos, and always check they are labeled “acid-free” and “archival.”

Here is a link to ones I personally use and love: Clear Resealable Sleeves for 8×10 Photos – Acid-Free, Archival Quality

There are many other methods to store these loose prints. The important keywords are acid-free and archival.

Step 3: Store in Acid-Free Archival Boxes

Once protected, keep your prints in archival-quality boxes that block light and moisture. Label each box clearly—by year, event, or family member—to make finding photos later easy.

Archival boxes are ideal for:

Negatives and small albums
Family portraits
Studio prints
Loose photographs

Here is a link to the boxes I have purchased before: Museum-Quality Archival Photo Storage Box – Acid-Free with Removable Lid

Label each box clearly so you can access it easily later. I recommend labeling either by year or by family member name, whichever makes it easy for you to locate these images later.

Step 4: Use Archival Photo Albums (Optional)

For a more organized, browsable solution, place photos into archival albums with acid-free pages and sleeves. Grouping images by event, decade, or family branch works well for family history or genealogy projects.

Step 5: Scan for Digital Preservation & Sharing

Scanning prints creates a digital backup in case originals are lost or damaged. Digital copies also let you:

• Share photos instantly with relatives
• Display images digitally in frames or online albums
• Make reprints or photo books

Even a simple flatbed scanner works for most prints. For faded or damaged photos, professional restoration or editing software can help.

This is the scanner I personally use: https://amzn.to/3IsJ4S8

I love this Epson scanner because of the speed and the scan quality. It can scan documents, prints, negatives of various sizes, as well as slides. Look at what you plan to scan, and purchase your scanner based on what you intend to scan, as well as other key specs.

For more advanced photo restoration, consider hiring a professional or using photo editing tools to enhance faded or damaged prints.

Why Proper Photo Storage Matters
Photos are more than just images—they carry stories, emotions, and connections across generations. Taking the time to store them with archival materials preserves your family’s legacy for decades to come.

At Belly to Baby Studios, we love helping families create and protect these memories, from newborn portraits to family milestones.

Have Questions or Storage Tips of Your Own?

I would love to hear from you if you have any tips or questions about “How To Properly Store Unframed Photos And Portraits”. You can contact me here:

I have been a professional portrait photographer in Houston, Texas, for over 30 years. My studio is located in an office building close to the Galleria and in the Tanglewood neighborhood. Here is a map to the studio:

I look forward to helping you and your family with your Portraits.

How to Display Your Professional Newborn Portraits in Houston
A Guide for New Moms

Professional Newborn Portraits in Houston

Welcoming a newborn into the world is an extraordinary milestone, filled with joy and wonder. As a new mom, amidst sleepless nights and endless feedings, finding time to think about how to display your newborn’s portraits might feel overwhelming. But capturing those precious early moments with the help of a professional Houston newborn photographer can make all the difference.

Not only will you have beautiful images to cherish, but you’ll also enjoy a stress-free experience that allows you to focus on your new baby. Here’s a guide to help you navigate displaying those cherished newborn portraits and making the most of your investment.

Professional Newborn Portraits in Houston

Planning the Perfect Newborn Session

Before the session, your Houston maternity and newborn photographer will work with you to ensure every detail is tailored to your preferences and home decor. This initial planning phase is crucial for achieving portraits that complement your style and enhance your living space.

1. Selecting Wraps, Baskets, and Backgrounds

 Your professional photographer will guide you through selecting the right wraps, baskets, and backgrounds. These elements are essential for creating a cohesive and visually pleasing set of portraits. You might choose from a variety of colors and textures that match your home’s aesthetic or personal style. The goal is to ensure that the final images are not only beautiful but also integrate seamlessly with your home decor.

2. Customizing the Newborn and Family Portrait Session

   Discuss your preferences with your photographer regarding the setting and style of the session. Whether you prefer a classic, timeless look or a more contemporary, vibrant style, your photographer will accommodate your wishes. By customizing the session, you ensure that the portraits reflect your family’s personality and the unique charm of your newborn.

Professional Newborn Portraits in Houston

 Choosing and Displaying Your Newborn Portraits

Once the session is complete, your photographer will present you with the images, helping you choose the ones that best capture the essence of your newborn’s early days. Here’s how to make the most of those precious portraits:

1. Selecting Your Favorite Images

   Reviewing your images with the photographer is a special experience. They’ll assist you in selecting your favorite shots, considering factors such as composition, expression, and overall impact. This collaborative approach ensures that you’re choosing portraits that truly resonate with you and represent this fleeting moment in time.

2. Displaying Portraits in Your Home

   When it comes to displaying your newborn portraits, consider the following options:

   Framed Prints: Choose high-quality frames that complement your home decor. A gallery wall with various sizes and styles of frames can create a stunning visual impact. Position these frames in high-traffic areas where family and friends can admire them, such as the living room or hallway.

   Canvas Prints: For a more modern look, canvas prints offer a sleek and stylish way to showcase your portraits. They provide a clean, frameless finish and can be a focal point in any room.

   Metal Prints: If you’re looking for something contemporary and durable, metal prints provide a unique, glossy finish that makes colors pop. These are especially striking in modern or minimalist spaces.

3. Creating a Keepsake Portrait Album

   In addition to displaying portraits on your walls, consider investing in a professionally designed album. Your photographer will help you select images that tell a story and curate them into a beautiful, high-quality album. This not only serves as a safe place to store your portraits but also as a cherished keepsake that you and your child will treasure for years to come.

4. Archival and Safe Keeping

   Ensure that your selected images are preserved properly by opting for archival-quality prints and albums. Your photographer will guide you on how to care for your prints and albums to ensure they remain in pristine condition over time. This attention to detail helps protect your investment and ensures that your newborn portraits will be enjoyed for generations.

Professional Newborn Portraits in Houston

Enjoy a Stress-Free Experience

One of the greatest advantages of working with a professional newborn photographer is the ease and support they provide throughout the process. From planning and selecting styles to displaying and preserving your portraits, your photographer is there to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. As a new mom, this support is invaluable, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your new baby.

In conclusion, displaying your professional newborn portraits is an opportunity to celebrate and preserve this special time in your life. With the guidance of a skilled Houston newborn photographer, you’ll have beautifully curated images that enhance your home and create lasting memories. From planning the perfect session to selecting and displaying your portraits, you’ll experience a seamless process that results in treasured keepsakes. Enjoy the journey, and take pride in the stunning images that capture your newborn’s earliest days.

About Belly to Baby Studios

Belly to Baby Studios, led by Lisa Carr, specializes in creative and timeless professional family and maternity portraits. We offer in-studio family and maternity portraits in the Houston area, ensuring a controlled environment for perfect lighting and backgrounds. Lisa Carr also photographs newborn and baby portraits.

Lisa Carr is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) organization. This distinction is held by only 8% of full-time working photographers in the US. Lisa has photographed many Houstonians throughout her career.

Belly to Baby Studios is a full-service portrait studio, handling every phase of your portrait experience: conception, capture, full artistic embellishments, and framing for your final wall portraits. To learn more about our studio and portrait photography for your individual and family portraits, visit our website or call 713-461-2862.

Expert Tips for Perfect Family and Maternity Portraits

Family portraits serve as cherished memories, capturing the love, laughter, and bond shared among loved ones. At Belly to Baby Studios, we understand the importance of creating timeless images that families will treasure for years to come. In this blog post, Lisa Carr, our professional family and maternity portrait photographer, shares valuable insights and tips to help you make the most of your family and maternity portraits.

Reflecting Your Family’s Essence

A family portrait is more than just a photograph; it’s a visual representation of your family’s love and connection. At Belly to Baby Studios, we strive to capture the authentic essence of each family we work with, creating images that reflect your unique dynamic and bond. From coordinating outfits to choosing the perfect studio setting, every detail plays a crucial role in crafting a portrait that you’ll cherish forever.

1. Plan Your Outfits Carefully

Coordinating outfits can significantly enhance the overall look and feel of your family and maternity portraits. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect attire:

• Choose a Color Scheme: Select a palette that complements each family member without being too matchy-matchy. Soft pastels, neutral tones, or shades of the same color family work well together.
• Avoid Busy Patterns and Logos: Patterns and logos can be distracting and take the focus away from your family’s connection. Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that enhance rather than detract.
• Consider the Season: Think about the time of year and choose outfits that are appropriate for the season, ensuring everyone is comfortable.

2. Choose the Right Setting

At Belly to Baby Studios, we specialize in in-studio family and maternity portraits, providing a controlled environment where lighting and backgrounds can be perfectly managed. The studio setting allows us to create a variety of looks, from classic and formal to relaxed and casual, ensuring your portraits reflect your family’s personality and style.

• Backgrounds and Props: We offer a range of backgrounds and props to suit different styles and themes. Discuss your preferences with us to ensure we create the perfect setting for your portraits.
• Lighting: Professional studio lighting helps highlight your best features and ensures your portraits have a polished and professional look.

3. Relax and Have Fun

One of the most important tips our photographers emphasize is to relax and have fun during the photoshoot. Genuine smiles and interactions make for the best portraits, so don’t be afraid to let loose and enjoy the moment with your family. Trust your photographer to capture the authentic essence of your family dynamic.

• Playful Interactions: Encourage your family to engage in playful interactions during the shoot. These candid moments often result in the most heartfelt and genuine portraits.
• Positive Attitude: A positive attitude and a relaxed demeanor go a long way in creating beautiful portraits. Remember, the goal is to capture your family’s love and connection.

4. Incorporate Meaningful Props and Activities

While pets are not allowed in our studio, incorporating meaningful props or engaging in activities can add depth and personality to your family and maternity portraits. Here are some ideas:

• Favorite Items: Bring along items that have special significance to your family, such as a cherished book, a beloved toy, or a family heirloom. These props can help tell your family’s story and add a personal touch to your portraits.
• Interactive Elements: Consider activities that your family enjoys, such as reading a book together, playing a game, or sharing a special moment. These interactions can create natural and candid moments that capture the essence of your family’s bond.

5. Embrace Candid Moments

While posed portraits are timeless, don’t underestimate the power of candid moments. Some of the most heartwarming and authentic images are captured when families are simply being themselves. Allow your photographer to capture spontaneous moments of laughter, affection, and connection between family members.

• Natural Expressions: Encourage your family to relax and act naturally. Genuine expressions and interactions make for the most memorable and impactful portraits.
• Unscripted Moments: Embrace the unscripted moments that happen during the shoot. These spontaneous interactions often result in the most cherished images.

6. Be Patient and Flexible

Patience is key during a family and maternity portrait session, especially when working with young children. At Belly to Baby Studios, we know that our clientele often includes babies and younger children, so we’re prepared for the unique challenges they bring. Be prepared for unexpected moments and embrace the unpredictability of family dynamics. Trust your photographer to guide you through the process and remain flexible to accommodate any changes or challenges that may arise.

• Allow Time for Breaks: If needed, take short breaks during the session to keep everyone comfortable and relaxed.
• Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and go with the flow. Your photographer will work with you to ensure the best possible outcome.

7. Communicate Your Vision

Communication is essential to ensure that your photographer understands your vision and expectations for the photoshoot. Discuss your preferences, any specific poses or shots you’d like to capture, and any concerns or considerations you may have. Clear communication helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

• Share Your Ideas: Don’t hesitate to share your ideas and inspirations with your photographer. This collaboration will help create portraits that truly reflect your family’s personality and style.
• Discuss Your Goals: Outline your goals for the session, whether it’s capturing a particular mood, highlighting specific relationships, or creating a certain look.

8. Trust Your Photographer

Above all, trust your professional family and maternity portrait photographer to capture beautiful and meaningful portraits that reflect the love and connection within your family. Lisa Carr at Belly to Baby Studios is skilled at creating stunning images that capture the essence of your family’s unique story. Relax, enjoy the experience, and trust in the expertise of your photographer.

Ready to Capture Unforgettable Family Memories?

Contact us today to schedule your family and maternity portrait session with our team of expert photographers. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, documenting a special moment, or simply capturing the beauty of your family’s bond, we’re here to help you create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t wait – book your session today and let us capture the magic behind the lens.

About Belly to Baby Studios

Belly to Baby Studios, led by Lisa Carr, specializes in creative and timeless professional family and maternity portraits. We offer in-studio family and maternity portraits in the Houston area, ensuring a controlled environment for perfect lighting and backgrounds. Lisa Carr also photographs newborn and baby portraits.

Lisa Carr is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) organization. This distinction is held by only 8% of full-time working photographers in the US. Lisa has photographed many Houstonians throughout her career.

Belly to Baby Studios is a full-service portrait studio, handling every phase of your portrait experience: conception, capture, full artistic embellishments, and framing for your final wall portraits. To learn more about our studio and portrait photography for your individual and family portraits, visit our website or call 713-461-2862.

Why You Should Start an Amazon Baby Registry Today

Are you expecting a little bundle of joy soon? Lisa Carr, a Houston newborn photographer with Belly to Baby Studios, shares one of her favorite baby registry stores. As you prepare for this exciting new chapter in your life, creating a baby registry can be a game-changer. And when it comes to convenience, variety, and all-around ease, an Amazon Baby Registry stands out as a top choice. Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Here’s why:

1. Unlimited Selection at Your Fingertips

Amazon is renowned for its vast selection of products, and its baby registry is no exception. Amazon has it all if you’re looking for nursery essentials like cribs and changing tables, practical items like diapers and feeding accessories, or adorable outfits and toys. You can browse through thousands of options from top brands, ensuring you find exactly what you need and want for your little one.

2. Convenience That Fits Your Lifestyle

Creating an Amazon Baby Registry couldn’t be easier. You can do it all online, from the comfort of your home (or wherever you happen to be!). Simply create an account, start adding items with just a few clicks, and manage your registry easily from your computer or mobile device. Plus, your friends and family can shop your registry 24/7, no matter where they are located. Talk about convenience!

3. Benefits and Perks Galore

When you create an Amazon Baby Registry, you unlock a range of benefits designed to make your journey into parenthood smoother:

• Completion Discount: Receive a discount on any items left on your registry closer to your due date.
• Free Welcome Box: Qualify for a complimentary box filled with baby essentials, samples, and coupons.
• Easy Returns: Amazon’s hassle-free return policy ensures that you can exchange or return items with minimal effort.

4. Gift-Giving Made Simple for Loved Ones

Your loved ones want to celebrate this special time with you, and an Amazon Baby Registry makes it simple for them to find the perfect gift. They can browse your list, choose an item that fits their budget and preference, and have it shipped directly to you. No guesswork, no duplicate gifts—just pure joy and excitement!

5. Flexibility and Support

Amazon understands that plans change and needs evolve. That’s why they offer flexibility with your registry. You can add or remove items at any time, update your preferences, and even receive personalized recommendations based on your registry activity. It’s like having a helpful assistant guiding you through your baby preparation journey.

Ready to Get Started?

Creating your Amazon Baby Registry is not just about compiling a list of items—it’s about simplifying your life during this exciting and sometimes overwhelming time. From the unparalleled selection to the convenience of online management, Amazon offers everything you need to kick off your parenting journey on the right foot.

Head over to Amazon, create your baby registry today, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re well-prepared for the arrival of your little one. Your journey into parenthood is about to become even more delightful with Amazon by your side.

In conclusion, an Amazon Baby Registry is more than just a checklist; it’s a supportive tool designed to make your transition to parenthood as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re a first-time mom or adding to your growing family, starting your registry on Amazon is a decision you won’t regret.

Create your registry here: https://www.amazon.com/baby-reg/homepage?&linkCode=sl2&tag=lisacarr-20&linkId=0d7866b3f71169e133d97f0762d6f8f7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

About Belly to Baby Studios

Houston Newborn Photographer, Lisa Carr, a passionate and experienced newborn portrait photographer, Belly to Baby Studios is a premier destination for maternity, newborn, baby, and family portraits in Houston. Our studio is conveniently located in the vibrant Galleria area, providing a welcoming and comfortable environment for our clients. With a dedication to capturing the beauty and essence of each stage of life, we invite you to contact us at 713-461-2862 to schedule your portrait session and begin the journey of transforming your memories into timeless works of art.

Celebrating Mothers and Daughters:
A Special Photography Event

Are you a mother or daughter looking to create beautiful memories together? We invite you to join us for a complimentary black and white studio photography session at Belly to Baby Studios in Tanglewood, Houston. This special event is designed to celebrate the unique bond between mothers and daughters of all ages.

What’s Included in Mother and Daughter Complimentary Session?

1. Professional Photography Session

Experience a complimentary black and white studio photography session with your daughter(s) – a $750 value! Our talented photographers will capture the essence of your relationship in stunning, timeless portraits.

2. $100 Gift Certificate

Receive a $100 gift certificate, which you can use towards the purchase of any artwork from your session. This is a great opportunity to select your favorite images and turn them into cherished keepsakes.

3. In-Studio Portrait Reveal & Ordering Session

After your photo session, enjoy a personalized viewing and ordering appointment in our studio. See all your fantastic portraits and get assistance from our portrait artist to select and purchase the portraits you love.

4. Wardrobe Consultation

Receive expert guidance on what to wear for your portrait session. Our wardrobe consultation ensures that you look and feel your best in front of the camera.

Hear From Our Clients

“Our experience with Belly to Baby Studios was truly exceptional. As newcomers to professional portraits, we were initially hesitant, but Lisa and her team immediately put us at ease. The portraits are stunning and hang beautifully in my living room.” – Michelle S.

“My daughter and I had the most amazing experience with Lisa Carr as our photographer. We were blown away by the stunning portraits that now adorn our walls. We can’t thank Lisa and the team enough for the beautiful memories they’ve created for us. Highly recommend!” – Sarah J.

“Working with Belly to Baby Studios, especially with Lisa Carr, was an experience we’ll always cherish. From the first consultation to the final reveal, Lisa’s professionalism and creativity were outstanding. We were blown away by the final results. We can’t recommend Belly to Baby Studios enough.” – Emma W.

For more questions, please email us at info@bellytobabystudios.com. We look forward to capturing your special moments!