Going Big | Arlington, VA family photographer

I am asked more and more often for help when clients are choosing their prints from a session.  My latest comment from people is “I wish I would have ordered the print larger”.  We are under an impression that 8×10 and 11×14 are enlargements.  When you really receive your “enlarged” 8×10, you realize just how small it really is.  The other assumption that people have is that you can’t go large with a photograph (or a painting) in a small home.  If you look at the above photo (this is my home) you will see a 30×45in canvas (divided into three panels) as a focal point in my room.  I have a 1000sq ft home, so “small” it is.  I get more compliments on this canvas and the impact it has in my little house than anything else I have ever displayed.  Its clean, simple and draws the visitor’s eye.  So don’t be afraid, if you have a photo that you love love love, order it big.

I will recommend which photos make for great canvases.  Something this large is not inexpensive, so I do recommend going with what I call a “timeless” photograph.  My children are wearing simple clothing, looking away from the camera and enjoying a moment in time.  Have you ever watched any of the gazillion home improvement shows and paid attention to how they display their photos?  My favorite for this example is Extreme Home Makeover.  9/10 times the designers say “We found these old photographs and blew them up to 16×20 or 24×36 to create a memorable impact”  I pulled an image from on of their makeovers….see below

So don’t be afraid, if you love the photos…go for it!  I am always happy to consult in your home during an ordering session.