Gathering photos: a life in 8 pictures

We know it can seem like a lot: combing through that huge box of photos in the attic or stack of albums to find the perfect images that capture a life richly lived.

No need to stress over choosing the right kind of photo, or the right number to fill the size of collage you want. Some people choose only one incredible image. Also, don’t be anxious about sticking to a theme or picking shots that ‘go together’ — the magic of reminisart is that you don’t have to.

An important thing to keep in mind:

Photos that have a sense of place, or show people enjoying an activity, will spark more conversation, and will be easier for others to talk about, then pictures of only people in a group.

To help get you started, here are suggestions for the types of photos to put in a collage that will get the whole neighbourhood talking. (You don’t need a photo from each category, and it’s OK to have more than one photo in any category.)

  • A portrait. A candid of your loved one mid-laugh, or a professional portrait of them dressed in their finest — the best portrait is one where their personality shines through in their eyes.
A mother, her son, and his wife standing in their kitchen smiling, show the fun in candid photos.
  • A family photo. A photo with parents, siblings, or children provides a wonderful illustration of your loved one’s roots, whether they come from a large and boisterous flock or a small and intimate family. Family photos with kids can showcase some of the proudest moments of your loved one’s life.
  • A community or group photo. Commemorate the many valuable friendships your loved one enjoyed.
A woman and her three grandchildren sitting on stairs outside her townhouse in a moment of togetherness and happiness.
  • A photo from a happy place. Whether that happy place was in front of the Eiffel tower, at the beach, or in a favourite armchair with a good book, a picture of your loved one in their happy place can bring it all back with one glance.
    A happy middle-aged couple on a boat enjoying the sunset create an unforgettable memory perfect for a reminisart collage.
  • A special memory. Consider including a moment your loved one talks about with fondness: holding their newborn, in front of their first house, their retirement party, or playing with their dog.
  • A wedding or anniversary photo. A photo with their other half will keep them feeling close to their beloved, even if it’s not always possible to be together in person.
Black and white photo of a little girl playing with her pony, capturing a joyful childhood memory, with animals and nature.
  • A childhood or teenage photo. Celebrate the mischief and joy of your loved one’s younger days.
  • A photo from a trip or adventure. The right picture will evoke memories of that family trip back home, that cottage vacation, or standing in the midway at the CNE.

For people living with dementia:

For people living with dementia, their strongest memories are often from their teens and 20s.They are able to tell a clearer, fuller story because their memory actually works! Include photos from their early years and watch their eyes shine as they reminisce with confidence! 

Do's and don'ts:

Do look for:

  • Sharp focus and clear facial expressions.
  • Uncluttered backgrounds.
  • Good contrast and separation between people and background.
  • Digital images that are high-resolution.
  • Photos that tell a story.

Don't worry if they are not the same size or type or quality; they don't have to match. The reminisart professional creative team will "optimize" them to pull them all together.

Avoid:

  • Out of focus or faded; faces obscured. 
  • Cluttered images with no point of interest.

Whatever photos you choose, we will create a beautiful gift that is thoughtful, visually balanced, and, most importantly, honours the singular life and spirit of your loved one, and gives everyone insight into what makes them remarkable. 

Your loved one’s cherished memories are in good hands. We promise. 

Ready to get started? Order your reminisart today.