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). 👇
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).
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.
Take a look at our portrait folders or paper frames. Not sure what portrait frame will work for your photographs? We’re here to help. Send us your thoughts, or give us a call: (800) 346-3063.
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.