How to Create Photograph Packages for Clients

Packge photographs in a slim box for safety.

Impress your clients on multiple levels by showcasing your photography through expert packaging. Since your images are valuable, present them with pride by packaging them carefully to deter damage. The use of clear sleeves lets the customer preview the prints before leaving the studio, while providing protection from accidental scratches from fingernails or jewelry. Secure, rigid packaging will also ensure the client transports the photographs home carefully, reducing the chances of damage in a car, on the subway or during a flight.

Things You'll Need

• Acid-free clear photograph sleeves
• Acid-free card stock backing
• Acid-free tissue paper
• Solid acid-free photo boxes
• Acid-free cardboard art boxes
• Mailing labels

Instructions

1. Lay the photograph on a piece of thick acid-free card stock-style backing. Choose a piece of card stock that has the same dimensions as the photograph, or slightly larger.

2. Slide the photograph and backing into an acid-free clear sleeve. Choose a sleeve with the same dimensions as the card stock backing.

3. Slide a piece of acid-free tissue paper in the front of the package. Lay the tissue against the front of the photograph to protect the image surface from humidity and scratches. (Temporarily remove the tissue when the client arrives.)

4. Zip the top of the protective sleeve. Avoid self-adhesive sleeves, as they can stick to the photograph when the photo is removed from the sleeve.

5. Package each print in its own individual sleeve. Smaller prints, such as wallet-sized photographs, can be packaged together in solid acid-free cardboard boxes. Avoid boxes with windows, as prints may be damaged without proper protection.

6. Place the sleeved and boxed photographs into an acid-free cardboard art box. Choose a slender box with dimensions slightly larger than the largest print enclosed. Do not seal the box.

7. Add the sales invoice last. Fold the paper in half and tuck it in a pre-printed company envelope. Add any additional promotional materials, re-ordering instructions, brochures, flyers or business cards to the envelope. Hand write, "Thank You" on the front of the envelope and tuck it in the box, behind the prints.

8. Leave the box unsealed so the client can inspect the prints before leaving the studio. Offer to seal the box as the client prepares to leave with the package of photographs.

Tips & Warnings

• If the photographs are mailed to the client, package them as instructed in a slender cardboard art box, and apply the mailing labels directly to the exterior of the box. A rigid box is unlikely to bend or crease, while padded or cardboard-based envelopes often tear or bend, which could damage the photographs.

References

• Frame Destination: Photograph Storage Sleeves