Valentine’s Day is one of the Hallmark Holidays that I prefer to pretty much ignore – as far as I’m concerned, the only good thing about it are those little candy hearts that go on sale dirt cheap the next day, when they’re already partly stale.  At least, that’s the only good thing from a commercial standpoint.

So what if you want to ditch the rampant commercialism and do something really sweet for Valentine’s Day?  The choices aren’t as well publicised, but they are out there – and here’s one of them.  Instead of candy and roses and any of the other cliche gifts, get your portrait taken.  A 5×7 glossy is a great way to remind the one you love that, well, you love them.  It lasts longer than candy and doesn’t have to be watered for a week.

Levity aside, a portrait really is a great idea – if the love of your life is a working person, a portrait of you on their desk will surely brighten their day.  If you’re doing the distance relationship thing, a portrait on the bed stand will be the last thing they see when they fall asleep and the first thing they wake up to – not the same as being there, but at least it’s a start!  Even if you’re both already living together, a nice portrait on the wall helps to make a house into a home.

Last year I shot this Hollywood glamour style portrait of my mother; she gave it to my father and to her parents as a Valentine’s gift.  They all loved it, and even asked for extra prints so they could have one in different offices/houses.  It really was the perfect gift – something different, and something from the heart.

But it really doesn’t have to stop there – if you won’t want your portrait taken alone, bring your better half along too.  Couples portraits are always nice to have at home, and to share with the family.  Think about it – when’s the last time you and your “significant other” had your picture taken together (no, Facebook-style self-pics don’t count)?  Don’t you think it’s about time to have a nice one done?

And if you’re a photographer yourself, this is the perfect chance to entice your love in front of the lens – and join them!  Set up some lights, practice some studio work, but above all else, have fun doing this together!