Choosing your perfect Photo Book: a no-nonsense guide to finding the right book for you

Photo Books come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and options.  In this article we are going to cover the different things to think about and the various options that you have to select the very best Photo Book that is right for you and the occasion.. 

I like to think about making a Photo Book as story telling.  Whether it’s a great family day at the beach, a month traveling around Italy or creating a yearbook about the family, a Photo Book has a purpose.  Being clear about ‘why’ you are making a Photo Book makes it much easier to navigate choosing what sort of book type is right for you.

Now let’s get down to the nitty-gritty details!

1. Print Quality: For those really important memories you’ll want a book that is printed in high-quality and is made to last using top materials. For day to day snapshots, printing in 4 colour inks may be sufficient but for your high res travel or wedding photos, you’ll want 7 colour printing which produces exceptional colour saturation and a wider colour gamut.

2. Size and Orientation: Again, think about your purpose.  For showcasing beautiful wedding photos, a trip around Australia or the year’s highlights, go for a larger size such as 12 x 12”, 14 x 12” or 16 x 12”.  For a family history you might prefer a portrait style such as 8 x 11”.  Or for memories of a weekend away you might opt for a small book such as 8 x 8” or 8 x 6” that you can easily carry around with you.

3. Paper: there are a wide range of paper types and weights to choose from. For your everyday memories I'd recommend at least a 150gsm paper.  But for those really special occasions a 200gsm or 260gsm paper will help bring out the colour in your photos and will give the book that feeling of quality.  A luster paper has a lovely gentle sheen to it or you may prefer a matte paper for a more subdued artsy feel.  For professional wedding photos or high quality landscapes you might go for a high gloss paper which will really make your colours pop - it’s really a personal preference here.

Ask for samples to find the paper that suits you best.

4. Binding:  do you prefer perfect binding or layflat binding?  Perfect binding involves gluing the pages of the book to its cover along the spine edge like a regular coffee table book.  Whereas with layflat binding each page is glued to the next one which allows the pages to lay completely flat when opened, without any curvature or disruption in the centerfold.  It also means the pages are super thick and durable but it also makes the book bulkier.

5. Cover Type: Think about whether you want a hardcover book or a softcover?  A softcover is like a high end glossy magazine and is budget-friendly.  Whereas a hardcover is made of a stiff board offering far more durability.  If you go for a hardcover, you can opt for a Photocover which is an image wrap cover with your own design on it.  This is the most popular choice and perfect for any occasion.  Otherwise you might prefer a traditional fabric cover with an option to add text stamping.  This is perfect for a more traditional look for say a family history or wedding album.  Check what fabrics and colours are available. 

6. Accessories:  You may want the option to add a slip case or presentation box to store your Photo Book in or to present as a gift.  These are a nice touch and give you the option to add a beautiful gold or silver title to the box.
  

7. Price: Photo books can range in price from super affordable to a bit of a splurge depending on the options you choose.  Consider your budget when deciding what book to make but remember that price generally equates to quality.

And there you have it – a no-nonsense guide to choosing the perfect photo book! Just keep these tips in mind and you'll have a photo book that's uniquely yours in no time. Happy creating!

For information about albumworks Photo Books visit: www.albumworks.com.au/photo-books