6 Ideas You’ll Actually Use to share family photos
I see it happen all the time. We spend a gorgeous afternoon together (your family laughing, playing, snuggling in front of my lens) and then… your photos live in a gallery link, collecting digital dust. Sound familiar?
Don’t worry, I’m not judging. (Okay, maybe a little. But lovingly.)
As a St Joseph Family Photographer, I totally get how busy life gets. Between school drop-offs, snack emergencies, and maybe a stolen moment to sip your coffee while it’s actually hot… it’s easy to forget the whole reason you booked family photos in the first place: to share them.
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Wait, I need to get family photos first!” I’ve got you. Whether you’re in Kansas City or a small town near by Gallatin Mo, I work with families all over as a family photographer (including Cameron, Kearney, St Joseph and everywhere in between). Check out my services, peek at my portfolio, or reach out to book your session!
So if you’ve been asking yourself how to share family photos in a way that actually feels meaningful. Let’s talk about six fun, beautiful, and totally do-able ways to get those memories out there.
Why Sharing Photos Matters
First things first, why does this even matter?
Because photos are more than just pretty pictures. They’re little time capsules. The gap-toothed smiles, the spontaneous belly laughs, the way your toddler still grabs your hand when she’s unsure (cue the tears). These moments are worth more than a quick scroll on your phone.
And your loved ones? They want in and sharing these memories creates connection. (Bonus: it’s also a great excuse to show off your adorable crew.)
Want to capture those share-worthy moments in the first place? Check out my guide on strees free session tips Because the best photos to share start with a fun, stress-free session.
1. Digital Albums and Online Galleries
This one’s easy-peasy. If you’ve worked with me, you already know how much I love sending over gorgeous online galleries. Clean, simple, and beautiful to navigate. They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends. And the easiest way to do so. You can share the gallery link through email, text, or even in a private Facebook message. Want to take it up a notch? Create a reel with music. Yes, it’ll make grandma cry. And yes, it’s worth it. Plus, online galleries work great if you’re the kind of person who wants to share a LOT of photos without overwhelming everyone with giant attachments or zip files. It’s one of the simplest ways for busy parents to figure out how to share family photos quickly and beautifully.
Have you checked out digital frames? We use the skylight frame for our family and upload images for all the grandparents and uncles and aunts using our phone app. Its easy peasy
2. Printed Photo Books and Albums
Let’s be real, nothing beats holding your memories in your hands. Flipping through a book with your kids and saying, “Remember when we did this?” is priceless. This is one of my kids favorite things. They flip through albums all the time and tell each other stories. Ive even made them their own mini books from social prints that they love and my nieces asked me to make them some!
As a family photographer near Kansas City (and someone who’s mildly obsessed with printing photos), I highly recommend making photo books a family tradition. They’re perfect for coffee tables, grandparent gifts, or even a yearly wrap-up to document your adventures. If you’re exploring how to share family photos in a way that becomes a keepsake, this is it. Create a year in the life albums with phone photos using a place like shutterfly and have me design an album printed from you family session.
Psst: If we’ve ever worked together (even if it was years ago), it’s never too late to order a photo book from your session! I save all my past galleries, so just shoot me a message and I can help you bring those images to life.
3. Framed Prints and Wall Art
Want to feel joy every time you walk past your hallway? Frame it up! This is an easy one because every collection with photoalli comes with a print credit to order wall art and you images are automatically shown in the product examples. Takes a lot of guess work out!
One of the best ways to share family photos is to hang them where everyone can see (and admire, and swoon over them daily). Whether it’s a bold statement wall in your living room or a soft gallery grid going up the stairs, printed wall art makes your photos part of your everyday life.
4. Holiday Cards and Announcements
The holiday card is BACK, and better than ever. Because nothing says “we’ve got our lives together” like sending out a beautifully designed card with your favorite family photo on it.
Whether you’re sending holiday cheer, announcing a new baby, or just want to say “hi” with your cutest family pic, cards are such a thoughtful (and easy!) way to share your images.
Just wrapped a family photo session with me near Cameron? Then your crew’s earned a good meal (and maybe a milkshake or two). Check out my list of places to eat near Cameron, MO This is from my other business and website Emerald Acres
5. Private Social Media Groups or Apps
Social media can be… a lot. But when used intentionally, it’s a great way to share your family photos with the people who matter most.
Try creating a private group on social media for your extended family or close friends. You can upload galleries, tag each other in comments, and keep the digital connection strong (without having to post publicly).
Prefer something more low-key? Apps like Google Photos, Tinybeans, or 1 Second Everyday let you upload and organize your favorite memories with just a few taps.
As a St Joseph senior photographer, I know that not every photo needs to go viral. Sometimes, it’s the quiet, behind-the-scenes sharing that feels most special.
6. Creative DIY Gifts With Photos
If you’re the sentimental, crafty type wondering how to share family photos, DIY photo gifts are where it’s at.
Think calendars, keychains, magnets, custom puzzles, or even photo ornaments for the tree. These kinds of gifts are especially perfect for birthdays, holidays, or “just because” moments.
The best part? These projects let you flex your creativity and make someone’s day. Believe it or not photos is the number one gift I give lol
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Family
Now, you might be thinking, “Okay Alli, I love all these ideas, but where do I start?” And that’s totally fair.
Start with what feels most fun and most manageable for you. If you’re already sitting on a gorgeous gallery from our last shoot, maybe it’s time to make a book or order a few framed prints. If your goal is to stay connected with faraway family, a private app or social media group might be the move.
Whatever you choose, just remember: your photos deserve to be seen. Not stuck in the cloud. Not buried on your phone. And not waiting for “someday.” You went through the effort of documenting these beautiful moments, let’s get them out in the world where they can be enjoyed, celebrated, and shared! I am here to help with these decisions, let me know where you think you want your images and I a can help figure out the rest!
Need Help?
As a Kansas City family photographer, I’m always here to guide you through this part. Whether you want to design the perfect gallery wall, create a keepsake album, or figure out which photo to slap on a mug for Grandma, I’ve got your back.
And hey, if you haven’t booked your next session yet, maybe it’s time? Whether you’re looking for the best photographer in St Joseph, planning a trip and need a Kansas City vacation photographer, or just want to capture your sweet everyday chaos—I’d be honored to be behind the lens.
Contact me today and let’s make something beautiful. And then actually share it.
