How do I create my own photobook?

Digital photography has become much more popular than traditional film photography for a number of reasons. For one thing, digital cameras have really come down in price and using them is easy and convenient. Also, it’s easy to use your digital photos to create greeting cards, websites, and more. If you long for the days of physical photo albums, you’ll be will glad you know that it is possible to create and bind your very own photobooks. All you will need are your pictures, a printer (either your own or someone else’s), and some kind of binding machine and supplies. Here is how you can create your own photobook in minutes:

The first thing to do is lay out and print your photos. The easiest way to lay out your photos is on your computer. You can do this with a number of software packages including MS Word and Publisher, InDesign, and LumaPix FotoFusion. You can use one of the program’s templates or design your own. When you’re ready to print your photos, you have a couple of options. First, you can print them on photo paper with your laser or ink-jet printer. (This is your most cost-effective option.) Or you could have a photo lab or warehouse discount store do the job. It’s up to you.

Now it’s time to select a binding method. You have several options when it comes to binding your photobook. Here they are:

• Stapling. Stapling your photobook is easy and cheap, plus you don’t really need any special equipment. The one downside to stapling the book is that it won’t look very professional. This can be helped somewhat by using a long-reach stapler to staple the book in the middle and then folding the pages so it resembles a stapled magazine.
• Comb binding. A lot of people have access to comb binding machines because they are easy to use and they can be inexpensive. If you choose to use a comb binding machine, just punch holes in the pages of your photobook and select a front and back cover for it. (Make sure the covers have holes punched in them.) Place a plastic binding comb on the machine’s comb opener, open it, and begin sliding the tines of the comb through the holes in your book. Close the comb when you’re done. That’s all there is to it.
• Coil binding. Another affordable binding option is coil binding. This is very similar to comb binding except you twirl a coil through the holes and don’t use combs. You will need to trim and turn in the ends of the coil with crimping pliers to secure the binding. Using coils is a good idea if you want your photobook to lie flat when it’s open. You’ll also be able to rotate the pages a full 360 degrees.
• Thermal binding. If you don’t mind spending some cash, thermal binding is a great way to go. You will need a thermal binding machine (naturally) and some covers that have adhesive in the spine. You can choose from hardback and paperback covers, and there are even some with windows cut into them. (There are also Unibind Photobook supplies which can make your work look fantastic. You must use these supplies in conjunction with a Unibind machine.) When your book is printed, turn the machine on, and stick the document in in one of the covers, ensuring that the pages come into contact with the adhesive. Place the book in the machine with the spine facing down. Once the machine has bound the book, remove it and let it cool off.