When thinking about gifts, we want something special for our loved ones. Something meaningful, memorable, and useful. Photography can be all of that and even more, whether it is for your sister who has never had professional photos taken, a dear friend expecting a baby in 2020 or your own family overdue for beautiful images. If you’re having trouble finding the perfect Christmas gift for family, friends or colleagues in Toronto, I’ve got you! Here are 5 reasons to give the gift of photography:
1. Photography is an Experience
In the material world we live in, it’s not easy to find a gift that stands the test of time. That’s where photography comes in: it is an experience, not a thing. Photography and memory are almost synonymous, and photos are guaranteed not to end up in the attic. When you give a portrait session, you are giving that someone the memory of a whole slice of their life – and of you, who made it happen.
2. Photography is a Cause for Celebration
Here in Toronto, we are lucky to be spoiled with an incredible variety of activities and entertainment. However, humans are creatures of habit. Often, we fall into a routine pattern: where we go, what we do, and who we meet. By gifting a photo session, you enrich a person’s life with a whole new tradition that marks and celebrates their life. Photography does not necessarily have to be for an event such as a wedding or birthday; it can be an event of its own. A person’s life is a series of events (big and small) and there is always – always! – a reason to celebrate. Whether it is career growth, pregnancy, graduation, romance, anniversaries – photography allows the person to relive the moment countless times over many years, rather than let the memory fade and be forgotten. This is why so many people who have had a photo session come back for more: once you experience the perfect set of professional photographs, you realize how fulfilling it is and how much you need it.
3. Professional Photography is Therapeutic
Gifts that help us improve are the best gifts. You could try your luck with gym or cooking class certificates, but then you risk involuntarily gifting a sense of guilt. Maybe it’s not their thing, or maybe they don’t have time to commit. In contrast, a photography session is easy and universal: they show up, have fun, and get results. And, the result is more than it might seem. Photo sessions help people relax, accept, and rediscover themselves. First, a professional photographer is your personal therapist at the time of shooting. Their job is not only to make you look good - but to make you feel good too. Second, seeing our most precious emotions, achievements, and relationships captured in a picture helps us put our everyday worries in perspective and focus on what really matters. And finally, imagine how different your home feels when its walls and shelves are decorated with beautiful portraits of you and your loved ones.
4. A Photo Session is a Universal Gift
A professional photography certificate is a universal gift that you can give to anyone. It doesn’t matter whether you are gifting a photography certificate to your spouse, friend, or colleague; it can be as personal or as official as your relationship. The recipient has the flexibility to make the photo session whatever they want it to be.
A business person may be too busy to think about quality portraits until they get it as a gift. On the contrary, many professionals yearn for the opportunity to get quality headshots for their LinkedIn, resume, or brand image. A woman, young or mature, would most certainly appreciate an opportunity to feel special and see herself through a professional photographer’s eyes. And, there is barely any need to explain how precious a gift a family or child photography session makes.
One thing is for certain: no matter who the person is, a photography certificate is a gift they can turn into their perfect experience.
5. The Gift of Photography is Ultimately a Three-in-One
First, the recipient is amused and surprised when they receive the photography certificate. There are anticipation and excitement - just like any other gift.
Second, they get a memorable, unique experience. Often, people do not realize how fun a photo shoot is until they experience it first-hand. They may come prepared to suffer through it in search of a great photo – but they leave with a big smile on their face.
Third is the result. The anticipation of a sneak peek right after the shoot; choosing favorite photos; and having a final gallery delivered. Whatever type of photo shoot they select – whether a new profile picture or a framed print on the wall – it is made to last.
Bonus: photography does not stop giving when you receive your photos. In addition to enjoying the pictures yourself, you can gift them to parents, friends, or other loved ones. Then, they can receive joy from having a memory of you hung on their wall or displayed on their table. Photography is truly a far-reaching gift!
