The improvement in digital photography has been a virtual landslide in technological advances and ease of use. More advanced cameras, printers, and image editing software have combined with a greater number of online and desktop based services allowing you to store and manage photographs. However, while digital photographs often prove to be a more practical and convenient choice when compared to traditional 6 x 4 prints they aren't without their drawbacks.

Regardless of of the number of options that exist to store and share digital images, we tend to download them from the camera or memory card onto the hard drive and then forget about them. Gone are the more tactile practices of handing out family photos and sharing the memories that we've built up across a lifetime. Fortunately, as well as being able to store and share photographs in their digital format the improvement in technology and printing techniques has also seen other options open up to us. Here are five unique and highly effective ways of using your digital photographs.

1 - Photo Calendars

The photo calendar is a personalised calendar that includes thirteen of your photographs in any order you require. Starting and ending in the month of your choice they make perfect gift ideas as well as an excellent means to show off your own photographs.

2 - Photo Bags

A photo bag can be customised to include one or two of your images. By using a photo montage or having one created from your favourite pictures, you can even include a larger selection of pictures. Bags that can be personalised to include your photos include handbags and purses, carry alls and wash bags, and even laptop bags.

3 - Home Décor

There's a great selection of personalised home décor products that include photo wallpaper and roller blinds, folding screens, and various forms of wall art. Used to either add a splash of colour and a mass of personality, or as a great gift idea, personalised home décor is both attractive and unique.

4 - Photo Canvas Prints

You can create your own canvas art using digital photographs. While digital photos do tend to work best it is even possible to scan your old paper prints and have these turned into equally effective canvas prints to hang on any wall.

5 - Photo Books

Photo books are a more modern but equally effective method of showing off your family photos. Images are printed directly onto high definition satin paper with no borders and offering exceptional image reproduction. They can be used to bring back some of the social aspects of sharing photographs and even include a great display or storage tin.

These are just some of the ways that you can use digital photographs in order to create great looking, great quality photo items. Ideal as gifts or as treasured keepsakes for your own use, personalised photo items have many different applications as well as options.