“Using photos from your past and captions you have written, give a memory that will last when older you’ll be gettin’.” – Stephen Arterburn and Carl Dreizler
Camera Sly – The Concept
Have you ever noticed how a simple photo can transport you back in time? Whether it’s a graduation shot, a wedding day memory, or a silly childhood moment, these snapshots are so much more than images—they’re touchstones of love, joy, and connection.
Grandchildren understand this instinctively. My great-nephew Ro has been creating pictures for his GGPa (Great Grandpa) for years. GGPa’s fridge has become an ever-evolving gallery of Ro’s artwork, a tangible expression of love that rotates with every new masterpiece. But you don’t have to be a child or a grandparent to use photos to say, “I love you.”
This week’s inspiration comes from 52 Simple Ways to Say ‘I Love You’ by Stephen Arterburn and Carl Dreizler, a treasure trove of creative and heartfelt ideas for showing affection. In their “Camera Sly” chapter, the authors highlight how pairing photos with personal captions can create lasting keepsakes that speak volumes about love and connection. With a little imagination, you can turn your favorite photos into meaningful gestures that resonate for years to come. You can grab your own copy here or anywhere you like to purchase books, but for now, here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Create a Scrapbook of Your Times Together
Dig out those amazing photos from your favorite moments and trace your relationship’s journey. Add new captions that make your loved one laugh, cry, or swoon. Presenting this scrapbook is like handing them a tangible story of your shared love.
2. Dive into Childhood Memories
Make a scrapbook from childhood photos—yours, theirs, or both. Add humorous or heartfelt captions like, “Here you are at 9, rocking your mom’s high heels. Pretty then, pretty now,” or “Bob at 11, putting up basketball nets because he was so tall. Nice legs!” It’s an instant trip down memory lane, infused with love.
3. Turn a Favorite Photo into a Poster
Choose a cherished photo of the two of you and have it enlarged into a poster. Add a loving or funny message for a piece of art that’s as personal as it is decorative.
4. Have a Professional Portrait Taken
If your budget allows, schedule a portrait session. A beautifully captured moment together is a gift that will only grow more precious with time. If you’d like help finding a local photographer, email Chanelle. As a professional wedding officiant, she works with some of the most incredible and talented folks.
5. Frame the Favorites
Take a loved one’s favorite photos and have them framed. It’s a thoughtful way to preserve memories they treasure most.
6. Send Photos Regularly to Long-Distance Loved Ones
For parents, grandparents, or anyone far away, sending physical photos regularly helps them feel connected to your life and love.
Camera Sly – Why This Matters
Photos are more than memories—they’re a way of saying, “I love you.” Whether you’re celebrating shared history or bridging the miles, these tangible tokens remind your loved ones of how deeply you care.
So, go ahead—be a little camera sly this week. Let your photos do the talking and watch the love shine through.
About Chanelle
Chanelle Carlin is the heart behind Chanelle Carlin Weddings, LLC, where she blends creativity, compassion, and a deep love for storytelling to craft unforgettable moments for couples. From intimate elopements in scenic Washington State to personalized vow-writing sessions, Chanelle’s mission is to help couples celebrate their love in meaningful ways.
As the host of the Now You May Kiss podcast, Chanelle shares insights and inspiration on love, weddings, and everything in between. Whether officiating a wedding, curating a bespoke retreat, or guiding couples through the journey of saying “I do,” Chanelle brings passion and authenticity to every detail.
Explore more at ChanelleCarlin.com and let her help you say “I love you” in unforgettable ways.