When we think about creating personalized photo gifts for friends or family, the first idea that springs to mind is to use portrait photographs. While these are perfect for small display items such as photo crystals, when it comes to larger items like tote bags or throws you can widen your horizons and turn to landscapes.

Landscape photography is a powerful medium for gifts because it performs two functions in one: If you’re giving a gift to a friend, a shared landscape you both know and love makes for highly personalized photo gifts. And if you’re making a special gift for yourself or for someone not familiar with the scene, a beautiful landscape doubles as a work of art.

Portrait or Landscape - Language Confusion

It gets a little confusing when you’re talking about images and using words like portrait and landscape because both words have two meanings in art or photography. When it comes to describing the way an image is viewed, landscape means the picture has the longest sides at the top and bottom. An image meant to be viewed in portrait has its longest edges at the sides. The other meanings, of course, are landscape for outdoor pictures of the land or nature, and portrait for photos that focus on a person.

Landscape Alignment

Not all landscapes, or outdoor, photos are suitable for all gift types. You need to consider the shape and size of the finished photo product. For instance, a photograph that’s meant to be viewed lengthwise, or in portrait orientation, won’t look so well on a blanket or throw for the bed because the image will appear sideways when the blanket is in place. For items such as this, choose an outdoor photo that’s meant to be viewed in the upright, portrait, orientation. For a throw that you’ll toss over the back of a sofa, choose an image with a landscape, or lengthwise, orientation.

Next time you’re considering personalized photo gifts, think about the outdoor landscape options amongst your photos and create something that’s both artistic and beautiful.

Just remember to bear in mind the intended use, and use a photo with a suitable alignment.