Create a Photo Book with Photoshop Elements

Preserving Memories: Creating Photo Books with Adobe Photoshop Elements

From the earliest days of photography, individuals have consistently searched for optimal methods of safeguarding cherished memories. Initially, the daguerreotype was the primary means of image capture.

Subsequently, the practice of framing photographs gained popularity as image quality improved. This was followed by the development of traditional photo albums.

The Evolution of Memory Preservation

The progression continued with the advent of photo scrapbooks, and more recently, social media platforms like Facebook have become commonplace for sharing images. However, the digital age has introduced an even more sophisticated approach to compiling a family history.

Adobe Photoshop Elements provides users with the tools necessary to design personalized Photo Books. These books can be conveniently printed at home or professionally produced through a publishing service.

A Straightforward Project

The process of creating a photo book using Photoshop Elements is remarkably accessible. The outcome is a beautifully crafted keepsake, ideal for display and enjoyment.

Ultimately, this project delivers a tangible and visually appealing way to showcase your photographs, perfect for a coffee table or as a treasured gift.

Initiating Your Photo Book Project

Prior to commencing, consider whether to open all intended images within the Project Bin. Opening numerous files simultaneously can potentially lead to increased system temperature. However, photos can be incorporated without prior inclusion in the bin; this alternative method will be detailed subsequently.

Even seasoned users of Photoshop Elements may encounter difficulty locating the starting point for a Photo Book project. Upon launching the application, observe the sidebar situated on the right. Select the "Create" button at the top of this bar to reveal a range of project options, including the desired Photo Book functionality.

Following project initiation, a selection of Photo Book sizes and styles will be presented. These are all designed to be compatible with standard home printers. For optimal results when printing at home, utilizing glossy paper and a binding method is recommended.

Three distinct sizing options are available, including those offered by Kodak and Shutterfly. Choosing these services allows for professional printing and direct shipment. Kodak publishing is universally accessible, while Shutterfly printing is exclusive to Photoshop Plus members. Note that certain style previews feature a gold ribbon, indicating availability only to Plus subscribers.

As previously mentioned, if images are pre-loaded into the Project Bin, an autofill feature is available. This function automatically populates the Photo Book with the contained photographs. The menu also includes a page number setting, which mandates a minimum of 20 pages for Kodak or Shutterfly printing.

However, a Photo Book with as few as two pages is permissible when printing locally.

Personalizing Your Template

Initiating the process can often present the greatest challenge. Once underway, the workflow becomes streamlined, requiring only minor adjustments to your project. A common modification involves tailoring the template to your specific preferences.

The initial and most straightforward customization is altering the title of your Photo Book. Simply double-click any text field, make your desired changes, and the update is complete. Furthermore, you have the flexibility to incorporate additional text blocks via the sidebar, enabling you to add descriptive captions to your images as you progress.

Regarding fundamental customization, Photoshop Elements provides options to modify page layouts, backgrounds, and the framing style of each photograph. These features are ideal for quick and simple adjustments. Similar to adding text blocks, these options are accessible through the sidebar menu.

Elements allows you to alter various project components by simply dragging and dropping thumbnails into your designated work area.

It’s important to recognize that these represent basic options for refining your Photo Book’s theme. However, located beneath your work area, you’ll find a button labeled "Switch to Advanced Mode".

Selecting this button grants access to layer-based editing and the full suite of Photoshop tools, allowing for more detailed control over each section of your project.

Photo Selection Process

As previously noted, images can be directly transferred from the Project Bin to the Photo Book template via a simple drag-and-drop action. Alternatively, if this method isn't preferred, photos can be inserted individually by clicking on the vacant photo placeholders within the template layout.

The process of adding photos is generally uncomplicated. A potential technical consideration might involve the need to adjust the size or cropping of your images.

Resizing and Cropping Options

To modify a photo, simply double-click on it. This action will reveal a set of tools allowing you to resize, pan, rotate, and refine your image selection.

These options provide granular control over the appearance of your photos within the photo book.

Further adjustments can be made as needed to ensure optimal presentation.

Finalizing Your Photo Book Project

Upon finishing all the pages within your project, you’ll be presented with choices to either print your Photo Book yourself or place an order through Kodak or Shutterfly.

Selecting professional printing will automatically launch the Elements Organizer, which will then display the necessary order form for completion.