I am going to be making a photo memory quilt for my GS 21st Birthday. I am thinking I would like to do a variety of quilt blocks that will feature the pictures in the center of each of the blocks. Since I am a professional photographer, the photos I will be using are all good quality so this is not a concern. I am also not too sure what colour of fabric (or fabrics) I should be using since I don't want to it turn out looking feminine. I don't know if I should consider a batik, a small print, or a plethora of colours. Thank you!

Hello and Welcome.
I think my first step in your situation would be to focus your pictures. Take each pic and evaluate which colors go best with it. As far as the blocks go, you could use the same block pattern, such as a star and make each block a different color. Or you could use different styled blocks with three or four colors overall.

Just some ideas for ya, I'm sure others will come and help too.

I would do a google image search of "photo memory quilts". That will give you many visual ideas/hints.

It really comes down to what makes you comfortable. I have put 'flower' fabrics into my grandsons quilts (they were small), it basically 'read' solid and he loves it.

does he have activities/hobbies that could also be featured?

Maybe frame the photos with fabrics that reflect his interests?

I think a simple design that shows off the photos would be better than something that the pictures would sort of disappear into.

I did one with photos in all black and white and used black, white and red fabric and it turned out well for a guy.

I made my aunt s one for a family reunion
I have a "pink" and a "purple" aunt ... They
luv them .... Just remember when u print
To use the "reverse" feature ...

I found a neat PP pattern for block like a postcard. It would look great with photos I think. That's what I plan to use it for someday with pics of my new granddaughter. It was free pattern.

The men in my family shun any flowery fabric, they prefer contemporary type of prints.
As to color? No pastels, they like earthy tones, or classic black and white with another color for interest :D:D:D

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my question, however I am not sure what PP (paper pieced?) pattern you are referring to. Would you please elaborate?

Pick colors from the photos...colors you know the person likes. I suggest you do a test print first....to check colors as they come from your printer. So you don't waste a good photo sheet ( at 3 for $10.00...kinda pricey)..I would take a piece of freezer paper, iron onto some cotton fabric (white or eggshell, depending on the look you want)...same fabric you will use in quilt...or as close as you can get, then print on the printer you will use.

Some (most of those I've done) come out pretty dark. Don't use the best printer setting..use better... my printers have Draft, Better, Best...use the middle one. When it's printed, let it air dry for a half an hour or so...then press, using a pressing sheet over it. Let it cool...pull off the freezer paper...If the colors are too dark...brighten the photo before printing.

Professional photos are great, but in my experience, they print darker...I usually use my photo software to clarify & brighten them a little.
Marge.

Oh, and I forgot to tell you in the email..on any picture larger than 4" square...I quilt on the photo...I use clear thread and trace the outline of the people, trees, etc. I just don't go over any faces, skin, etc.