gathering photos: a life in 8 pictures

Choosing your photos

What matters most is simple: it's all about them. This is the story of someone's best life. Photos of happy times and special places will help us look beyond a resident's medical condition to see the spirited person inside.

What makes a great photo?

Photos that show your loved one in a place they recognize, or doing something they enjoyed will spark the most conversations, and give others an easy way in, making connection and conversation feel natural.

A quick note on family photos

Family is often an important part of their story, but group photos can be visually overwhelming and frustrating as they struggle to remember who's who. We recommend including no more than one family photo where everyone is clearly visible, to provide context and a sense of culture.

Ideas to get you started

We know it can feel like a lot; sorting through boxes in the attic or stacks of albums to find the "right" photos. But don't stress it.

Below are suggestions for the best photos.

You don't need one of each, and they don't have to match. Whatever photos you choose, you'll be honouring a singular life, and helping others connect with what makes them remarkable. 

Our team will create a beautiful collage that captures a life well lived.

  • Special moments - The picture worth a thousand words - fond memories. These are the images that initiate reminiscing.

For people living with dementia

Memories from the teen and early adulthood are often the strongest and most accessible. Photos from this time can help recall stories with detail. Watch their eyes light up as they reminisce with confidence!

 

A sepia toned formal portrait of a young soldier and his fiancee 1950.

  • Portrait - An early professional photo or charming candid moment.
A south-asian man, his wife and his mother standing in the kitchen, smiling to the camera.
  • Family - Reveal their roots - a large, boisterous flock or a smaller team. 
A young girl in a Brownie uniform
  • Community - Celebrate the home team and the special events they enjoyed. 
Man at the motor of his fishing boat, boating on a lake, wearing a funny fishing hat.
  • Happy place - Where they felt grounded: the beach, the garden, or even a favourite armchair. 

A formal wedding portrait of an African-American couple, 1960s.

  • Wedding or anniversary - Keep their beloved close.

A girl with her mother visiting a beautiful garden 1970s

  • Adventure - Family trips and epic voyages - fun to compare stories with others.
  • Childhood or teen years. The mischief and joy. Everyone can relate!
        • Family pet - An easy cue for warm memories.

          Ensuring High-Quality Prints

          The higher the quality, the easier it will be for everyone to see the photos. 

          Do look for:

          • Sharp focus
          • People facing the camera with clear expressions
          • Good contrast between subject and background
          • Photos that tell a story

          Avoid:

          • Blurry, faded, or overexposed photos
          • Obscured faces 
          • Cluttered images with no clear subject

          Next Step

          When you're happy with your photo selection, we've got a helpful guide to walk you through scanning prints or slides as beautiful, high-quality digital files. Check it out here!

          Their cherished memories are in good hands. We promise. 

          Ready to make a collage? 

          Head to our Products Page to place an order.

          Interested in a trial?

          Join our waitlist to explore a connection-focused way of bringing your residents' stories into everyday care.

          Sign Up!