What is it about flowers that fascinates us? The colors? The petals? The shapes? Or their association with romance and beauty - vase of roses, Valentine’s day bouquet, European still-life? Whatever the reasons, flowers are among our favorite photographic subjects, and here on Gallery they have been celebrated in many beautiful ways.

When we think about what to include in a photo book, friends and family are usually the first subjects that come to mind. But the circle of our lives is much larger than this, especially if we pursue special interests and hobbies like charity work, or sports, or the arts. Some of my favorite books are those which focus on what we love to do and the people we love doing it with.

Pictures alone can tell a wonderful story. But one of the best features of photo books is the ability to pair words with pictures and add another dimension to the story—the voice and emotion of the storyteller.

Shutterfly Gallery is bursting with photo books that use words to enhance the story. Here are five original and evocative ways to tell the story behind the pictures.

Transformations are always exciting to watch, whatever the theme may be. It could be about remodeling a house, or planting a garden, or cleaning up a city park, or losing those 20 pounds, or changing from your jeans to your bridal dress. What’s inspiring is the change.

Since we’re staying local this summer - no 2-week vacations to far away places - our family is rediscovering the beauty of our home town via local nature walks. It’s so easy for me to forget that beautiful things are right around the corner, but taking a couple hours to find those green nooks and crannies completely changes my perspective. I realize that I live in a special place, and feel lucky that I have easy access to nature spots. And the great thing about finding these beautiful local places, is that you can easily invite your family and friends along for the journey.

Let me preface this article by letting you know we’ll be talking about family pets – so if you’re not into the whole four-legged-friend thing, you may skip this read. But if you love furry critters, then let’s party!

Do you have pets? If so, have you taken a look at our Pets category? No? Then stop right now and visit immediately. I guarantee it will make you smile.

Still haven’t convinced you? Then let me share some of my favorite furry photo books.