Five Things to Do with Outdated and Old Prints | Whitney Beth Photography
 

One of the most frequently asked questions I get from clients is what to do with old and outdated prints when the new ones come through the door. And they've got a point. You spent all that money on them - seems like a waste to just toss them (not to mention hard!) So what do you do? Here are the few options I always tell my clients;

1. Move them to a different part of your house. Switch frames even. The beauty of a photograph is it can still belong on display in your house - even if it's outdated. I have pictures all over my house from pre kids to only Jones and current. It helps tell your history. (And it also hides the fact if you're behind in getting current ones up when you have different years all along your walls.)

2. If you're printing the same size to fill a frame (I do this for my kids' yearly birthday shoots) I just slip the old photos in behind the new ones and have a little time capsule for each kid. 

3. Find a new home. Regift! What grandparent wouldn't want more pictures of their grandkids? Or, send some to the office. Not only will it make you or your partner's workspace more homey, but it'll also give them a chance to brag about how cute their kids are to their coworkers. 

But what if the prints are huge? Or not printed on photo paper? Don't worry, I've got you!

4. If you've got a canvas print that you don't want to relocate, regift and just want to store it, that can pose as a problem. The frames make them so bulky, and prone for the canvas to get stretched or poked or ripped. If you know you won't be displaying it for some time you can always carefully remove the canvas from the frame. These are secured with staples, simply pry them up and roll up the canvas print. You can then store it in a mail tube. When it's time to display it again, take it to a framer and they'll be able to stretch it back onto a canvas frame. 

5. If you're trying to figure out what to do with and how to store metal prints or large, mounted prints in general I recommend getting an artist portfolio bag. If you've ever been on a college campus near the art department I can assure you, that you've seen one. These (usually) canvas bags are made for storing and toting around large works of art. They're huge and can fit pretty large pieces of art in them. (Just make sure you get canvas or leather - don't go with the cardboard, it won't hold up as well.) Once your print is safely tucked into it's case, Find a closet or somewhere out of the way and dry, and prop that baby up against a wall. It's slim enough you won't even know it's there. (You can find these at most arts and crafts stores.)

There you go! Have a question I didn't answer? Shoot me a message or leave a comment! Your photos should make you happy, not overwhelm you, don't feel guilty for storing some and removing them from display.