Share article:
Share article:


Let’s face it, this year is not the year to hop into a socially distant line to grab those last minute Christmas gifts for your family and friends. Don’t worry, we have other options.

I have always been a big fan of the gift of photography. What does that mean? Well, it can mean several things. Perhaps you gift your own prints in a nice frame or create a photo album or calendar. Maybe you want to gift another photographer’s work by purchasing a photo book or other piece from their collection. The options are plentiful, unique and would likely put a smile any recipient’s face.

Over the past year, I, like many of you, have spent a lot more time at home. It has given me time to look at my photography and the other photographer’s works in a different way. I love capturing images, and I still managed to capture quite a bit this year, but I also love printing my work and sharing those prints with others. Below is a list of some of the online printing sources I have used this year. All of which specialize in different mediums and all of which were top notch in the products I received. If you are looking to gift your own photography or want to purchase pieces from other photographers to help them through a tough year please take a look at the options below. They are in no particular order but I have had personal experience with all the products listed and they will not disappoint. None of these businesses have paid us for this referral.

Metal Prints from Aluminyze.com

Earlier this year, I received some prints from Aluminyze that made for some incredible pieces that are now hanging on my wall. Aluminyze was generous enough to send us a couple of sample prints that we did a short review video on. Take a look at the video below to see some of the amazing quality of their metal prints.

 

Canvas Prints from ARTrillion.com

I came across ARTrillion from an Instagram ad and thought I’d reach out to get a sample of their printed work. They were incredibly responsive and happy to work with us. They sent me a really cool 24X36in canvas print with some custom text I submitted that laid on top of the image. This type of printing might not be for everyone but it is a unique way to display your work. They also do standard canvas printing and all their canvas prints are made here in the USA. I was really impressed with the quality of the print I received and would recommend it to anyone looking to purchase images on canvas. Here is a short video on the sample print they sent to us.

 

Photo Albums or Calendars from Printique.com

Over the years, I have purchased many photo albums and calendars from Printique, which used to be known as Adorama Pix. I have never been disappointed by the quality of items I have received from them. They have a robust offering of photography items but the albums and calendars are the specific items I can personally vouch for. I will be ordering a few calendars this year for my 2021 photo calendar. In fact, if anyone is interested in purchasing one of my calendars please reach out to me via email [email protected] or on my Instagram @instadurr. It’s the gift that keeps on giving the whole year. Also, here is a short video on Printique’s photo albums.

Michael Durr 2021 Photo Calendar

 

 

Photo Books and Fine Art Prints

As we know it has been a tough year for many types of jobs and professional photographers are probably among the hardest hit. With a lot of photographers businesses based on travel and events it’s no secret that it has been a difficult year. One way to help support those photographers is to purchase prints or photo books from them. I am sure you all have favorite photographers, even if you are a professional yourself. Taking a look at those photography websites and seeing what type of offerings they might have would be a great gift for yourself or for others. Below are some links to a few photographers we have talked to or worked with this year that are offering books.

Art Wolfe

Stephen Wilkes: Day to Night

William Neil

Paul Reiffer

Ignacio Palacios

And of course PhotoPXL’s very own, Kevin Raber

These are just a few photographers we have worked with this year but we encourage you to support any of your favorite photographer’s work.

Remember, at PhotoPXL we believe photography isn’t finished until you are holding that print in your hand and we hope this list has opened your mind to some amazing gift options this holiday season. It is important, now more than ever, that we don’t lose sight of creativity and support each other during this crazy time in our history. I hope anyone reading this has a happy holiday season and thank you for taking the time to view and support our work here at PhotoPXL, where we are working every day to help enhance your vision.


Michael Durr
November 2020
Share article:
Ever since I can remember, I have loved to tell stories. What better way to tell a story than through video and photography? Capturing a smile, a special moment or an event provides an opportunity for the subjects to relive and share their experiences. I have always been dedicated to becoming a better photographer, but I have made a living in video. After studying broadcast journalism at Illinois State University, I began my career in Central Illinois – creating commercials and on-air promotions for local television affiliates. From 2008 to 2012, I had the incredible opportunity of working at The Marketing Store, where I created content for clients such as McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, and Southern Comfort. I grew tremendously in my tenure at The Marketing Store and really tapped into my creative potential. From there, I worked for Maddock Douglas, an innovation consulting firm, where I was able to utilize my skills, and maximize my creative potential. Recently, I was a creative director at FÁS Chicago, a marketing agency located in Chicago. I now reside in Indianapolis with my wife and son and I have started Michael Durr Photo/Video, LLC. I am excited to continue working in this ever-changing and fun environment and look forward to the new opportunities that await on the horizon. Throughout my career, talented friends and great mentors have surrounded me. I have been fortunate to wake up every day never feeling like I was going to work. The combination of my professional experience, personality and drive to improve has given me a unique perspective from behind the lens. It is a combination of work and life that inspires me.
See all articles by this author

You may also like

This image of the the Trifid nebula (top) and the Lagoon nebula (bottom) was put together from 678 separate images taken over seven hours of observations. NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory
Camera & Technology

The Universe in Motion: What the World's Largest Camera Teaches Us About Seeing

Meet the 3.2-gigapixel camera that never stops shooting – for ten years.
Jon Swindall

Jon Swindall

·

June 26, 2025

·

9 minutes read


Lecia Monopan 50
Camera & Technology

Leica's $10 Film: Is Monopan 50 Worth the Premium?

Leica's first 35mm film costs $10 versus $7.50 for seemingly identical Adox HR-50 - is the red dot worth 33% more?
Jon Swindall

Jon Swindall

·

June 20, 2025

·

7 minutes read