When you send your photos to a photo scanning service you’re probably trying to permanently protect them from damage and destruction, and you’re doing the right thing. Going through the work and the expense will also protect your images from the natural deterioration that eventually claims most photos. But when you’re done scanning you’ll be ready to enjoy new ways to use your scans.

Your newly digitized images can be used along with the digital pictures you already have to create all kinds of photo specialties and novelties. You can download free software, and in some cases without even creating a password, use photos stored on your computer to create photo books, t-shirts, and calendars.

When a South Florida girls high school soccer team recently used an online photo specialty company to put the picture of an injured team leader on t-shirts for the entire team there wasn’t a dry eye on the field. This affordable gesture was truly a moment to remember.

An office manager had all of the people in the office submit unique photos of themselves. Using a photo specialty company she produced personalized photo mugs for each of the individuals and hung them on a rack in the lunch room. The mugs generated endless discussion about childhood, hobbies, and 1980’s attire. Not only could everyone easily identify their own mug, they learned things about their coworkers they might not have otherwise.

Impressed by the slideshow display that the funeral parlor had put together for a family member’s funeral service, one family had the digitized photos made into photobooks for all of the relatives and friends. The photos tied people’s memories together in a way that brought everyone closer together and expressed what it means to be a family in a way that words fell short of doing.

A group of Pre-K moms put together a photo book that included all of the kids, the teachers, and the staff. They took photos of the kids playing outside, sitting for stories, and nap time. Kids posed with their teachers, friends, and favorite books and toys. As time goes by and memories fade, these kids will be able to see where their education began. Some of the children may end up being friends for life.

One cheerleading squad recently put together a photobook that included images of all of their activities and photos of the different teams that they cheered for. They made them available to anyone who was interested and they immediately became a hit with players, families, and fans. These inexpensive keepsakes did not replace the yearbook, but the cheering squad enjoyed complete editorial control. Someone even suggested using them as a fund raiser in the future.

It’s probably best to choose a photo publishing company that offers software with an automatic layout feature. This can show different layouts until you find one that you like saving lots of time and effort. More advanced software can use one of your images as the background for your photo layout and allow you to adjust and review your project right from your computer without having to transfer data online. Only your finished order needs to be transfered. You can save a copy of your project at any time and continue where you left off when you’re ready.

Once you’ve had your photos scanned make sure to reward yourself by taking advantage of the creative possibilities you’ll find available at the better online photo specialty companies. You’ll find creating custom made keepsakes fun and inexpensive. Your ingenious masterpieces could last a lifetime, or longer!