The thick material inside a picture frame is called a picture frame mat. It’s typically sturdy like cardboard, but it isn’t actually cardboard.
Crafted out of sturdy mat board material, picture frame mats are an easy way to highlight a framed photo, art print, or map. They are available in all sorts of colors, for any occasion, for any taste. Most picture frame inserts are made of out archival-quality, acid-free material, meaning they won’t yellow or fade the prints they frame.
Sometimes called cardboard, picture frame mats are typically made of thick, acid-free material to frame and protect your photos or prints.
Why use picture frame mats?
Picture framing mats are an easy way to “dress up” a print you want to frame. Whether you choose a subtle 1″ border or something thicker, mats to frame photos add an upscale elegance to your framed photo.
Are some photo mats better than others?
The thickness and material of matting for frames can make a world of difference. Thin matting material doesn’t accent your photo as well as a thicker mat board. Where this really makes a difference is with the beveled edge. That angled edge gives your framed print that professional touch. How thick the mat board is defines how much of that beveled mat edge you see.
Another point to consider is that while most photo mats are made of acid-free material, not all are. Some mats are acid-resistant; they’re not acid-free, but have a coating to protect the prints from the acid of the board. Be sure to check before purchasing.
This mat board is 48pt thick and has a clean beveled edge to highlight your photo or art print.
What size frame mat should I buy?
There are two things you need to consider when buying mats for picture frames:
1. What size frame you need.
2. What size photo or print you want to frame.
To determine the outer size of the mat board, simply measure the glass or clear cover from the picture frame. That’s the outer dimension of your mat board.
To determine the inside size, measure your print. Keep in mind that most people who cut mat boards leave an overlap of no more than 1/4″ on all sides. This overlap helps hold the print in place and avoids any gaps between the print and mat when framing.
Can the picture cut-out be non-rectangular?
Absolutely! Most mat board cutters can cut custom frame mat shapes for any type of insert. We can even cut multiple openings in the frame matting. When you start with the uncut piece of mat board, the possibilities are endless. If you’re not sure where to buy picture frame mats, we can help.
We made a double-layered photo mat with a 4×6 photo window opening and a round opening to hold a medallion. The top mat is dimpled like a real golf ball, the bottom mat is a dark, forest green.
What about custom photo mat imprinting?
Adding your logo, design, or message to a frame mat is easy and adds that extra bit of personalization. It’s the perfect addition for frames that are being given as gifts, for framing diplomas or certificates, or even as a prize at a tournament or silent auction.
We can add a foil stamped imprint to any photo mat. While gold and silver imprints are the most popular, we have more than 20 foil colors to choose from.
A sample collection of custom imprinted photo mats. From top: white on navy blue mat; gold on green mat; black on cream mat.
We can help with your photo mat needs.
Want to learn more? Read our beginner’s guide to mat board. Whether you need something completely custom, or are simply in need of a blank photo mat, we can help. Our USA-made picture frame mat inserts are available with low minimums and attentive customer service. Find your photo frame mat or give us a call at (800) 346-3063.
You’ve chosen the tournament theme, you have the guest list made, the venue booked. Now, the swag. Do you have any golf tournament swag ideas? Choosing the best swag for women’s golf tournaments should be fun—and it should reflect on the event you’re hosting.
Before you jump in too far and get lost in the world of custom event giveaways, here are a few recommendations that have been a hit at women’s golf tournaments and events.
A few quick points to consider:
What do you want golfers to remember about your event? If you put your logo on the giveaways, they’ll remember the event. If you give them something personalized—something with their name, or perhaps a framed photo—the memories of that day will live on.
What’s your budget per guest for your tournament favors? If it’s a large budget, you can either get one nice prize per golfer, or divide it into several gifts in a goodie bag.
Are your sponsors willing to chip in? If the sponsor pays for the swag, their logo or message could also go on it.
Will everyone get a gift, or will this just be for a few golfers? Some golf event planners prefer to give prizes just to the tournament winners or do a random prize drawing.
Does it need to have a logo on it? Most giveaways with event logos require higher order minimums, anywhere from 10 pieces to 500! If event branding isn’t a concern, reach out to local shops to see if they are interested in donating to the event.
Let’s start with an obvious golf event giveaway: golf gear!
You can go big, or you can give out something that fits in their pocket.
Golf Balls
Golf Tees
Club Covers
Divot Tool
Ball Marker
Golf Stand Bag – it’s a larger purchase, but would be the perfect raffle prize
Custom imprinted golf balls and tees are a practical giveaway. One thing to remember: message first, logo second.
Bling it with custom jewelry
Bracelets, necklaces, earrings… you name it, you can get it custom made. There is a trick here: work with the jewelry maker or retailer to find a designed piece that women will WANT to wear. If you want to put your logo on it, the back of the jewelry might be best. Think about it: would you wear a necklace with a big logo on the front?
Bag Hanger
Give the ladies an easy solution to safely hang up their purse when out and about: a bag hanger! Designed to hold firmly to a table or bar top, this nifty tool fits in the purse and holds it up. Handbag hangers: a simple solution that no one knew they needed… but loved it when they started using it!
Ornaments
Your golf outing might be in July, but gifting ornaments is always in season. And with the right ornament, this is a favor that could last for many, many years to come.
Ornaments are a popular gift—even for summer golf tournaments! It’s a great reminder of your event.
Bottle Openers
A small giveaway, but oh-so-useful! Choose one that women will want to carry around in their purse or pocket for when they’re out and about. Because let’s face it: you never know when you’ll need a cute bottle opener!
Give the gift of food
While food gifts are not a long-lasting gift, the sentiment—and taste—will be remembered. With food gifts, you have two options for branding purposes:
Option #1: Give food that comes in reusable containers (metal is popular). That way, your tournament logo or message can be put on the tin, event guests can reuse the tin, and the memories live on.
Option #2: Gift custom logo cookies. Your logo can be printed directly on the frosting! If you want to get a bit more of a lasting impression, encourage golfers to post images of their tasty delights on social media and tag the tournament or company.
Branded golf apparel: practical… and stylish
We love receiving branded apparel from events. Hats, t-shirts, sweatshirts… it’s practical and a great reminder of the event. However, it’s all too easy to give out poorly-designed hats or t-shirts. Here’s what you need to know about designing golf apparel as event giveaways:
The event logo should be secondary to the message. Put it underneath the message, slogan, or visuals, or put it in another location altogether.
Remember: if golfers remember the memories and how the event made them feel, they will remember the company or club that hosted it.
Capture the memories with picture frames
If you’re hiring an event photographer or a photo booth, this one seems like a given. And there are plenty of perfectly affordable golf photo frame options that you can order—even if you’re giving out some of the prizes listed above.
With golf tournament picture frames, you can get executive-style wooden frames or even wood-like frames. Or you can go with a more budget-friendly solution with paper golf frames and photo folders. And yes, with either solution, you can put a logo on it.
If you’re giving out just a small prize, you can likely skip this. But if you’re handing out gift bags or a larger prize, include a thank you card, expressing gratitude for those who participated in your event. It’s simple, and it can really help create that lasting impression so they come back next year.
What goodies do you hand out at tournaments?
We’d love to hear what creative gifts you’ve given out—and how they were received by the golfers. Or share your golf tournament swag ideas! Share in the comments below or send us a message or on Facebook or Instagram.
Your graduate is unique. They are one-of-a-kind. So why get them boring old, run-of-the-mill graduation announcements? No, they deserve something something special, something classic.
Don’t make the design the reason people fawn over your kid. Make your kid’s photo the reason they fawn over them. How? With graduation photo insert cards.
In case you’ve never seen (or heard of) photo insert graduation cards, here’s what they are: photo insert cards are a blank 5″ x 7″ photo card with window frame on the front cover so you can slip in a 4″ x 6″ printed photograph. This video shows you how to use them:
How to use photo insert cards, sometimes called photo frame cards
Why are photo insert cards better than printed invitations or announcements?
Printed photo cards have their place and are a great greeting card alternative. But graduation—whether it’s high school, university, or pre-school—deserves something classic, something a bit more upscale. Here’s what you get with graduation announcement cards with photo insert:
Use whatever photo you want. Shoot, use a different photo for each recipient!
Recipients can keep the photo—undamaged—after the ceremony or party. Photos simply slide under the window frame border. No glue or tape needed, and no extra design on the photo of your proud graduate.
Order blank or personalized. Handwrite the message yourself or we’ll add an imprint in classic, metallic foil.
One card, many uses. Not just for announcement and invites, these also work beautifully as graduation photo insert thank you cards.
You can frame them! Think of these cards as cheap graduation photo mats for frames. The card measures 5″ x 7″, so it provides a thin border around the photo. So go ahead, frame the whole card.
How to turn a blank photo insert card into graduation announcements
First, start by choosing a color. Standard white or black? Or perhaps a classic navy or forest green. Or maybe they want the eco-vibe and you can go with the classic recycled kraft card.
Second, decide whether you want blank or personalized graduation announcement cards. The benefit of blank cards is that you can make some truly DIY graduation photo cards by adding stamps, stickers, or doodle some artwork on there. Don’t want to go the DIY route? Blank graduation photo card announcements also look great as-is with nothing but a heartfelt note written inside.
The benefit of personalized cards is that a foil stamped imprint gives your photo cards a classic, timeless look.
Last thing… envelopes. All photo insert cards come with plain white mailing envelopes.
How to use graduation photo insert cards
Graduation announcement photo cards. Looking for something a bit more upscale than a printed photo card? Sturdy photo insert graduation cards can be foil stamped with your graduate’s future plans.
Graduation party invites. Whether it’s a big party or a quaint gathering, mail out custom graduation party photo invites.
Custom greeting cards for far-away friends & family. Even if you send them a video, send them a card so they can truly hold onto that memory, that moment.
Are you a photographer? Photo insert greeting cards are an easy addition to your senior portrait package. Learn more about our wholesale program.
Make your own greeting cards! Just slip in your graduate’s photo in the front cover and write your message inside the blank card.Have wallet prints of your graduate? Opt for wallet photo insert cards. Perfect as small graduation announcements.
Let’s celebrate your graduate.
How can we help get the word out about your graduate? Whether you want to turn the graduate’s photo into an announcement, a party invitation, or use them as personalized graduation thank you cards, there are so many possibilities with photo insert cards.
Most of us have been there: digging through grandma’s box of photos and family portraits. It’s filled with delicate loose prints, much-loved photo albums, and those old-fashioned, vintage paper photo frames.
“Oh, that was your great-great grandma,” says grandma as we hold the aged but sturdy portrait folder. The portrait is beautiful in and of itself; portraiture was a unique art in the early 20th century, and unless a photographer is using antique photo equipment, it’s hard to beat that wonderfully black and white or sepia-toned vintage look.
But it’s not just the photo that gets us; the vintage paper photo folder has that old paper smell, and it’s still holding up, after all those years.
Vintage paper photo frames and portrait folders were popular with photographers because it was a safe and easy way to give clients their prints. The photographers also knew the paper frames and folders would protect the prints.
What they might not have known is how much those vintage portrait folders would be treasured.
Why we love vintage portrait folders & paper frames
Long story short, we see the value in them—because of how people react to vintage paper frames. Even if it’s something that was created 100 years before they were born, that nostalgic feeling is evoked with a simple whiff of the paper.
When the digital photo era really took hold, we held on tight to the traditional portrait folders (and kept selling them) because, although more people were opting for digital images, digital images are quickly forgotten. GIFs just don’t have the same staying power as printed pictures (ask grandma). 👇
We love printed pictures! Follow us on Instagram for more quips and inspiration about the beauty of printed photos & portrait folders.
While our portrait folders and paper frames are styled a little differently than those of the late 19th century and early 20th century, the idea remains the same: frame your studio portraits in something that’s not only beautiful to display, but will protect your prints for years to come.
Our photo packaging solutions are quality-crafted in the USA—they always have been. They are made out of sturdy 20pt recycled paper stock that is acid-free and archival-quality. The materials might be different from the old, vintage paper picture holders, but the feel and nostalgia are the same.
How vintage-style paper photo holders are used
Although cardboard portrait folders and paper frames are used for more event photography these days, they are still highly sought-after by studio photographers. They are especially popular with photographers and studios using traditional photographic techniques, like tintype photography (shown below).
Studio portrait folder with custom stamped border decorations. This one is used to frame tintype photos. Image taken by forgottenfilm.us.
Where to buy vintage portrait folders & picture frames
If you want authentic vintage portrait holders, you’ll want to check out Etsy and ebay.
If you just want that authentic feeling, but are ok with a modern interpretation, we’re here for you. We have classic black and white portrait folders and textured paper frames that evoke that nostalgic feeling and protect your prints with acid-free, archival-quality paper. Best part: they come at a bargain price.
Some more bonus points for our vintage-style portrait folders & frames:
Acid-free & archival quality. While our folders are typically used for events, they are perfect for storing photos.
No glue or tape required. Better for long-term storage (less acid from tape means less change in photo color and clarity)
Unique storage solution. Rigid folders keep your treasured photos from creasing
Have a photography studio? Make them custom. We specialize in adding studio logos to our portrait folders using a traditional hot foil stamping technique. Just like photographers used to add their name to folders, you can, too.
Sturdy paper portrait folders with a unique textured finish. Designed + made in the USA by Studio Style
The image at the top of this post features vintage paper frames and photo cards as curated by the Beinecke Library of Yale University. See their collection of images on Flickr.
Learn how to use photo insert cards to frame your art, cross stitch, drawings, and small media
Have you ever thought about making your own greeting cards? You have the art, but no way to make a one-of-a-kind card out of it.
Let’s look at it this way: if you can frame your art the same way you frame photos, why not create greeting cards the same way photographers do? And it’s simple, really. Here’s how you do it:
Get a photo insert card. And then you just slide your artwork in the window frame.
Done!
Now you have a beautifully finished piece that you can mail to loved ones or sell at art shows, craft fairs, and farmer’s markets or even online.
Who knew that creating a greeting card with your art could be so easy—and protect what you created?
Why are photo insert cards so popular with artists?
The photo insert cards we make are popular with photographers and artists because:
The 5″ x 7″ card holds a standard 4″ x 6″ print
The window opening measures 3-½” x 5-½”, meaning more of your art shows.
Mini watercolor prints are perfect for inserting in these 5″ x 7″ blank greeting cards.
Many recycled card options for your eco-friendly art.
Especially important if you create art using eco-friendly materials or design art focused on environmentalism.
Small art prints, like this botanical print, fit perfectly in photo frame greeting cards, especially cards made from recycled card stock, like this kraft photo insert card.
Made of acid-free, archival quality materials.
No yellowing or aging. Protect what you created.
Your art is protected in this acid-free, archival-quality paper stock.
No glue or tape needed—just slide your art in.
No damage to your photos or art with glue or tape. Your art is held in place by the window frame border. And this makes it easier if the buyer or recipient wants to re-frame your art; just slide it out, and frame it as you wish (psssst… check out our mat board for framing art prints).
Just slide your 4″ x 6″ photo or art print under the window frame border.
Come with mailing envelopes.
Perfect for mailing prints to clients or selling at art shows. If you’re selling at an art show, consider packaging the card and envelope in a clear greeting card sleeve for added protection.
All of our photo frame greeting cards come with plain white mailing envelopes.
What kind of art can you frame (and mail) in a photo insert card?
Ultimately, you can insert any thin 4″ x 6″ piece of art into this 5″ x 7″ blank greeting card. Photos fit nice and snug (so they stay put without glue or tape), so keep that in mind. Cross stitch and embroidered pieces do fit in the window frame border as long as the stitching isn’t too thick.
Something important to keep in mind: the window opening measures 3-½” x 5-½”, meaning ¼” of your art is hidden under the frame edge.
The purple represents the area that would be hidden under the window frame edge to keep your art print nice and secure without the use of damaging tape or glue.
Learn more about insert greeting cards for art
Never used a photo insert greeting card before? See how easy it is to insert a photo or art print, and learn about customization options for your business.
You have your memory mates prints… do you have frames for them?
If you’re the photographer, do you offer cardboard Memory Mate frames to your clients as a package add-on?
There are many framing options you can add to your sports photography packages, from economical paper portrait folders to cardboard frames and even upscale poly frames.
Let’s look at what you can do with different framing options.
The Economical: Frame your Memory Mates in Paper Frames or Photo Folders
Paper and cardboard photo folders and frames for 8″ x 10″ Memory Mate sports pictures are an extremely economical—and practical—option. Here’s why:
They’re made out of paper, and paper is inexpensive. (Bonus: these are made of recycled paper)
Photo folders have a front cover that folds over to protect your print from fingerprints and creases—perfect for handing out to athletes or parents.
Are you the photographer? Add your studio logo to the front cover or back of the portrait holder.
Or add the team mascot logo to the front cover with foil stamping.
The Upscale: Frame your Memory Mates in Moulded Picture Frames
Polystyrene (plastic) frames are an upscale framing option for Memory Mates. Designed to look like real wood with a subtle decorative moulding, these frames come with your choice of colored picture frame mats.
So why go with this luxury option for your memory mate picture frames?
Upscale look perfect for displaying at home or in the office.
Adding mat board gives it a professional touch.
Glass face protects the print.
Deluxe, wood-like finishes: black, cherry, or walnut.
Slots for hanging on the wall, or display your 8″ x 10″ Memory Mate frame on your desk with the horizontal/vertical easel back.
Memory Mate Picture Frames… also good for Magazine Covers
We’ve all seen them (or even bought them): the magazine-style photo of your athlete, complete with mascot, position, team colors, and professional sports magazine-style layout.
Yes, the magazine covers deserve a frame, too! For framing sports magazine covers, we recommend using a sturdy cardboard frame, like this or this, or choosing an 8″ x 10″ poly frame.
Photographers: How to add Memory Mate frames to your sports photography packages.
Did you know we have a wholesale program for photographers? Signing up is easy, and you get special deals on all of our photo folders, picture frames, and photo cards. Sign up at StudioStyle.com.
Once you sign up, you’ll get access to lots of wholesale resources, including sell sheets, marketing tips, pricing advice, and more. Want to chat first? No problem. Send us a message, or call our team at (800) 346-3063.
Don’t get us wrong, photo booths with an iPad or dSLR camera are going nowhere.
However.
Those adorable, vintage-style film cameras? Yeah, film isn’t dead.
But… why? Why are so many people choosing Polaroid or Instax over a standard photo booth? We’ve already shared 10 reasons to have a photo booth.
Now here are 5 reasons why pictures from instant cameras are a great alternative to the modern day photo booth
1. Vibrant Colors.
Film has come a long way. But those instant prints all have something in common: color. Often producing vibrant colors—more-so than what our eyes can see—these instant prints bring images to life in a whole new way.
Vibrant colors + defined contrast in highlights and shadows = Instax magic. Image by StockSnap from Pixabay.
2. Soft Lines.
Let’s face it, instant camera prints aren’t crystal-clear in focus. But that just adds to the charm, right? Those softer lines give that vintage feel of photographs taken before digital cameras were a thing. While not noticeable to some, this softer, dreamy quality is something that film photography hobbyists and aficionados can appreciate.
But it is important to note that—especially if you’re shooting the images yourself—there are ways to reduce the blur. From Polaroid’s website, they note some common causes of blurry photos include:
Long shutter speed
Flash not firing (depends on the cameral; some have automatic flash)
Camera isn’t focused on your subject
3. Sentiment-inducing white border.
What is it about that white border? For many—perhaps the Gen X-ers—had many Polaroid prints from their parents or grandparents. So using these at a wedding or party is a throwback to a simpler time, a simpler way to view photos.
Plus, that nifty white border leaves plenty of room for adding a little note to the person you’re giving the picture to (even if it is yourself!).
4. It’s an easy DIY photo booth option
If you have your own Instax or Polaroid camera, then this is an affordable route for you to take. The film can cost about $1 per print, so take that into consideration when budgeting for your event.
The fun part of a DIY Instax or Polaroid photo booth is that you can let guests do their own thing. Leave the camera on a table (have someone watch over it!), and they can take their own photos for a unique perspective for each image.
Or, set up your own photo backdrop and assign someone to take pictures of the guests.
Whichever route you take, this relaxed, DIY photo booth idea is perfect for informal events or parties with kids. Because, really, how many kids do you know who would think a Polaroid print developing was some sort of magic?
One last note about a DIY Polaroid or Instax photo booth: this can be a really fun option! If you want the vintage charm of these prints, but want your pictures to look professional, there are professionals who shoot with these camera! The benefit of hiring a pro is that they know how to photograph people, and they know how to create the best lighting for those photos.
DIY wedding photo booth with an Instax Mini camera? Why not! Photo by Luke Lung on Unsplash.
5. The option for digital
While not all instant cameras come with a digital storage option, this is becoming the norm. This is perfect for when you want to send guests home with a photo, but you want one, too.
Isn’t it great when analog and digital play nicely with each other?
How to frame your Instax or Polaroid prints—and why you should
If you’re throwing a party where branding matters, hosting a fundraiser, or celebrating your wedding vows, why not personalize the party a little more?
Framing your instant camera prints is smart because:
It protects your prints. It’s amazing how an extra layer of cardstock can protect your prints from creases, smudges, or worse, getting left behind.
Lets guests display their photos. Sending guests home without a frame means those pictures—those memories—might be put in a drawer and forgotten. Why not give them a way to show off those memories.
It’s another thing for you to personalize. Depending on the frame you choose, you can add event branding, a company logo, or a sweet little thank you note from the bride and groom.
Paper Polaroid frame with a custom-designed border. Design your own Polaroid frames at StudioStyle.com.
Do you use an Instax or Polaroid for event photography?
We get a lot of orders for paper frames for instant camera prints, so we know people are using them. But we love hearing how these charmingly vintage cameras help bring your event to life! Let us know in the comments below how you’ve used one at your event.
Have you ever donated some money to a non-profit and received a thank you pack in the mail?
Some of the non-profit donor thank you packs have just a letter, some have a coupon to redeem a gift, and others include the gift. Each of those solutions works, depending on the size of the organization, and the type of donors who give money.
But we have a clever idea that could help boost donations. How?
Including the simply elegant photo insert card in your donor thank you packs.
How to use photo insert cards to boost non-profit donations
The thing with sending photo insert cards in donor welcome packs is that they aren’t actually a gift for the donor. Rather, they are a gift for the donor to send to someone else. Tricky, we know… but it works!
To understand why this tactic works, we need to look at the science behind giving and happiness.
Science has proven that giving back feels good
When you give to somebody, endorphins are released, making you feel good. Typically related to exercising or eating spicy foods, once endorphins are released, that “high” can last for hours.
So you give something—money, goods, or service—and that good feelings lasts.
Achieving the “helper’s high” with donor thank you packs
But here’s the thing with endorphins and donor thank you packets: there’s no way you can mail a donor pack and have it there before the endorphins wear off.
Start with a short, hand-signed welcome letter. Be sure to thank them for the specific amount they donated, and tell them how those funds will be used.
Include pictures of your organization. If you want to make the biggest impact, include photos of the places or people that money is helping.
Tell them how to follow you. Whether you share your organization’s deeds on social media, through email, or a quarterly newsletter, keep them engaged!
Give them a gift. Here’s where photo cards come into play. Read on!
How photo cards can grow the “helper’s high”—and boost donations
Here’s what you do: order photo insert cards or make some custom printed cards. The goal is to design a photo greeting card to give to donors that they will in turn send to someone they know.
On the cover, add a photo relating to what your organization does, but leave it generic enough to work as an everyday greeting card image.
Leave the inside of the card blank so the card sender (the donor who received your welcome packet) can write their own personal message.
On the back, add your non-profit’s logo, website URL, and brief message. Keep it short enough not to overwhelm the overall design of the card, but include enough to entice card recipients to visit your website—and donate to you.
Types of photos to use for donor packet greeting cards
Nature or wildlife
Cityscape or photo of the town your organization is in
Popular area landmark (be sure to check copyrights first)
A project your team and volunteers completed
Have an artist on staff or a donor or volunteer artist? Have them create something that aligns with your mission.
Add a simple message like “Have a beautiful day”. If you’re sending these out near Christmas, add a cheerful Christmas design.
In giving these photo greeting cards to donors, you’re thanking them for donating to you (that’s the fist “helper’s high”), and you’re encouraging to send a beautiful, personalized card to someone they care about (that’s the second “helper’s high”).
Wildlife conservation groups or nature preservation non-profits can give photo cards with wildlife photos inserted. Shown: Black Photo Insert Card
Does your non-profit send thank you packs?
If not, it’s never too late to start. Whether you go all-out with letters, photos, cards, and brochures, or start with just a simple, personalized email, donor thank you packs are a sensible marketing tactic to help you achieve donation goals.
If you do send thank you packs, what do you include in them? More importantly, are your donor packs successful?
But pictures with Santa have changed. Remember the scene in “A Christmas Story” when Ralph and little brother Randy went to a department store to an elaborate setup with Santa up top and a biiiiiig slide for kids to go down? When’s the last time you saw a setup like that?
While getting your picture taken with Santa might not be as big of an ordeal as it used to be, it’s still very much a thing. But how you have those pictures taken has changed. Santa (and his helpers) don’t wait for you to come find them; nowadays, you’ll find Santa at just about any Christmas event planned during the holiday season.
While you can do a DIY set up to take your own photos with Santa, we have an idea that will give your party guests some fun, memorable prints: hire a photo booth.
Don’t think a photo booth is worth the rental cost? Read on to see why photo booths are such a great idea for getting your picture taken with Santa.
1. Photo booths have been around for a long time… people know how to have fun in them!
Even if the setup a photographer uses is similar to what a photo booth setup looks like, if you call it a photo booth, peoples’ inhibitions seem to dwindle a bit. Throw in some props and you have instant fun! How much fun would your party guests have if the guests and Santa used props in their photo booth pictures?
So if you want some fun, relaxed, candid photos with Santa at your company Christmas party or holiday event, consider a photo booth.
Photo booths often offer a more casual environment than studio portrait setups. Smile how you want, pose how you want, and shoot, give Santa a smooch if you want! Photos by Say Ya! Photo Booth. Visit them on Instagram or Facebook.
2. You can choose a backdrop to match your event décor.
Most photo booth companies have many different backdrop offerings. Some even offer custom designed photo booth backdrops!
But you don’t have to feel limited to just a solid screen. If space, time, and lighting allows, most photo booth companies will let you design your own backdrop—even if that includes Santa’s sleigh! So go on, think big.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to your Santa photo booth setup. Add the sleigh, trees, and a backdrop. Photo by Say Ya! Photo Booth. Visit them on Instagram or Facebook.
For this event, they put a beautifully decorated Christmas tree against a simple red curtain backdrop as vivid as Jolly Old St. Nick’s suit. The sparkling garland and classic white lights add festive holiday flair. Photo by PicBox Photo Booth Company. Visit them on Facebook.
3. You can get printed AND social sharing options.
When it comes to having pictures taken with Santa, most people want the print, and that’s it. And that is perfectly ok!
But what if you want to create an online experience to further the message of your event or brand? That’s where photo booths with social media sharing capabilities come into play.
These photo booths with digital downloads or social sharing options let you share your pictures direct to your social media channel of choice. Shoot, some even offer gifs! The possibilities here are nearly endless. If you choose a photo booth with social media sharing, be sure to have guests tag your company, event, or use a special hashtag so you can follow the experience online.
Be sure to ask around, though, as not all photo booth companies offer the social sharing option.
4. Easier for kids
Let’s face it, some kids get freaked out at the idea of sitting on Santa’s lap. Even if they recognize him as Santa, he’s still a stranger up close.
When it comes to Christmas party photo booths with Santa, you have a few options for getting pictures with the kids.
First, you can take the traditional route of the kid on Santa’s lap or standing next to him. For a lot of kids, this works great. Others… not so much.
In order to keep all the kids (and their parents!) happy, consider creating a photo booth setup for the whole family to enjoy. Wary kids will be more open to participating if mom and dad or their friends are all in the picture with them.
Santa and Mrs. Claus posed with the kids (and their silly glasses!) on a comfy couch with the rest of the family behind them. Photo booths can allow for large setups, meaning the whole family can have their picture taken with Santa. Photo by Shutter Booth Charlotte. Visit them on Instagram and Facebook.
5. You don’t really need Santa.
Gosh, we hope that statement doesn’t put us on the naughty list. But there’s some practicality behind that statement.
If hiring Santa for your Christmas event isn’t in your budget, you still have some great options with photo booths to make it look as though Jolly Old St. Nick was there.
Santa Replacement #1: Backdrops
Back to the topic of backdrops… some photo booths might have a backdrop with Santa on it. So you just pose in front of a picture of Santa and call it a day!
Other photo booth rentals might offer green screens, so you can choose from their library of backgrounds, or perhaps even design your own.
Santa Replacement #2: Props
Every photo booth has props. And most Christmas party photo booth rentals offer Christmas-themed props as part of their package. So while Santa might not be there, maybe you can wear his hat.
If the photo booth doesn’t offer Christmas-themed props, ask them if it’s ok to bring your own. If you go the DIY-route, check out any arts and crafts store or yes, even Target or Walmart.
Santa Replacement #3: Custom Photo Booth Print Design
If you opt for printed photos at your holiday party photo booth, ask the photo booth owner if they offer designs on their prints. Many photo booth companies offer designed prints in their packages. Here’s a bonus: some of them even let you add branding! As always, ask these questions to get the most out of your event budget.
How to find a photo booth for your Christmas party
Need help finding a photo booth near you for your holiday event? Here are three easy ways to find a photo booth near you:
Go to your search engine (ex: Google or Bing) and type in “photo booth near me”. The results will populate with local photo booth businesses for you to research.
Go to Facebook and search for “[your city] photo booth”. Below the search bar, scroll sideways to look for “Pages” and you’ll find a list of pages for photo booth companies.
Go to Instagram, tap the search icon and type in either “photo booth”. Scroll sideways below the search bar and tap on “Places”. Not all of these will be local to you, but many will. Another way to search on Instagram is to search for the name of your city, scroll to “Places,” and tap on the name of your city. This will give you a searchable map. If your local photo booth owners have added their business location, they will appear on this map.
If you’re taking photo booth pictures with Santa, send those prints home in a festive photo folder
At Studio Style, we design and manufacture a full line of photo folders and cardboard frames—and yes, we have LOTS of Christmas designs. Just choose one to go with your event, or design your own. Not sure where to start? We can help! Send us a message or call us at (800) 346-3063.
Whether you’re looking to frame your own botanical graphics or you want a cheap framing solution to sell your botanical prints at art fairs, farmers markets, or online, we have some great options for you.
First things first: we need to talk about archival-quality framing.
The botanical print frame options we have for you are all made out of acid-free, archival-quality materials. What that means is your artwork won’t fade or yellow. Of course, if you put the print in direct sunlight, fading could occur; however, the areas protected by the frame won’t fade or yellow. Likewise, if the print is exposed to extreme humidity, the print could get brittle (low humidity) or moldy (high humidity).
Let’s look at some different options for framing botanical or floral prints.
Budget-Friendly Botanical Print Frames
If you’re working on a budget or are just looking for cheap frames for your botany prints, you’ll want archival-quality paper frames. We have many recycled options in a variety of standard print sizes.
5″ x 7″ Photo Insert Card Frames for 4″ x 6″ Prints
Our Simplicity photo insert cards are popular with nature photographers, so we know they’ll complement your botanical artwork as well.
The beautiful thing about these acid-free photo frame cards is that the card itself fits a 5″ x 7″ frame. This is the perfect, budget-friendly selling option for when you want to let buyers of your art choose their own frame. So not only can you sell photo insert cards as a custom greeting card, but you can also sell them as inexpensive picture frame mats.
Whether you sell these at art fairs or give them out as botanical birthday cards, photo insert cards are an upscale—but inexpensive—way to frame your botanical prints.
Bonus: Many of these photo frame greeting cards are made of recycled paper. Plus, if you’re ordering blank photo insert cards, there is no order minimum. Get as many—or as little—of whatever colors you need! Learn all about our popular photo insert cards.
Easel Back Paper Frames
If you want a true paper frame with easels for easy display on a desk, mantel, or end table, you’ll want acid-free paper frames made of recycled black or white textured cardstock. These cheap paper frames are an economical way to frame your prints of flowers.
Textured black paper frame—perfect for colorful watercolor botany paintings.
Where can you sell botanical prints in paper frames?
Point-of-purchase display (retail shops)
Art fairs
Craft bazaars
Gift shops
On consignment
Online marketplaces (like Etsy)
Tourist areas
Parks & nature centers
Flower shops
Upscale Frames for Botanical Graphics
If you want to sell prints at art fairs, or just want a ready-framed option for your customers, you’ll want to check out our acid-free mat boards in sleek and stylish poly frames. Designed to look like real wood, these durable plastic frames are available in black, cherry, or walnut.
For a more upscale framing option for your botany prints or artwork, consider poly frames with mat boards.
Who frames botany art prints in poly frames?
Artists. Do you sell at art fairs? While some of your clients might choose botanical prints in paper frames, offer this upscale option for those looking for an elegant display.
Botanical Gardens. Sell prints in your gift shop that artists have made on your grounds.
Garden Centers & Nurseries. A great selling option in the off-season. This is a great options for garden centers that remain open year-round. These make great Christmas gifts for gardeners.
Are you selling botanical graphics?
If you’re selling botanical prints in frames, make sure you’re getting them at the right price.
We have a wholesale program at StudioStyle.com for any business or artist who uses our products to resell their artwork. Here’s how it works:
You sign up for a wholesale account, and you can save up to 50% off retail prices, giving you plenty of room to make a profit on your framed botanical graphics and floral prints. Sign up for your wholesale account at StudioStyle.com/Wholesale.
Let’s see YOUR botanical artwork.
If you sell botanical prints, or if you make sketches in the field, share them with us in the comments below! We’d love to see (and share!) your art.
