As a family portrait photographer, it probably goes without saying that I take photos of my own kids. Lots of photos. To the point that when my kids see me with my camera they reflexively shout “No pictures!” Sorry kids!

But, taking photos of my kids is not the same thing as taking photos of the things they do and love. For example, on any given day, my son will pick up rocks and leaves and carry them around with him for the rest of the day. I love these treasures because he loves them, but what am I supposed to do with them at the end of the day? Invariably, I throw them away and feel guilty about it.

My friend Donna Brady, amazing mom to Ronan and Phoenix and a talented lighting designer, has a great solution for this — artistic photo collages of her kids’ treasures — or what she calls Tiny Treasure Collections. Donna’s collages (pictured below) capture the seashells and other treasures her kids found over the summer at Breezy Point here in New York City. There’s so much I love about these collages — they’re creative, practical, and space saving, but most importantly, they preserve the wonderful memories of her kids at the beach. Not to mention that it’s art that she created with her kids, which makes it all the more special. And did I mention Donna took these with her iPhone?? I love it when beautiful photos can be created easily and without pressure.

I’m going to try to create some Tiny Treasure Collections with my own kids. I could see this working well for things like movie tickets, party favors, stickers, matchbox cars, flowers, fall leaves, and any number of  small and special things they love on any given day. This concept would make for a great photo book! #printyourphotos

In making these collages, Donna was inspired by the work of Todd McLellan and Lisa Congdon. (Photo by Donna Brady)

I think this one is my favorite! (Photo by Donna Brady)

I love the crab legs in this one. (Photo by Donna Brady)