Choosing A Wedding Photobook For Style
Your memories are priceless - but your photobook options don’t have to be. Your special day deserves a special milestone moment - and what better way to celebrate it than a custom photobook, made your way, your style - ready to be cherished forever?
A printed photobook offers many advantages that a regular scrapbook just doesn’t have. First is the quality - when you’re printing on professional-grade paper, you’re getting an experience that cheaper photobooks just can’t provide. On top of that, a premium custom photobook will lay-flat - allowing you to place that beautiful photobook on a table, desk, or any area where you want to be able to keep those memories closeby and in plain view.
Your style is as unique as your personality - show it off! With many custom options available - cameo, embossed, etc. - the sky is the limit and you can be as choosy as you like. Why not choose a cover in your favorite color, in a linen or leatherette material?
Overall, you’ll be impressed by the sheer amount of quality and options that are available with a premier custom photobook company, especially one who focuses on quality as a top element of its brand, rather than simply low prices.
Choose For Size
When it comes to size, you have a lot of options to consider. If you’re planning to have a coffee table photobook to commemorate your wedding, it makes sense to plan for your particular space and get a photobook that is going to fill the space, but not be too large. In these cases an 8x8 square or 8x10 photobook might be the perfect size to really fill a good table space that you might have.
If you have larger coffee table or space to fill, you might consider a larger photobook option, such as The Album, which comes in up to a 14x11” size. That’s a pretty hefty book, but will still be light enough to hold in your hands.
Ultimately, choose a photobook that seems to compliment your space, your requirements in image size, and overall feel of what you are looking for when buying a custom photobook online.
Choose For Material Options
A plethora of material options are available for the savvy photobook buyer. Choose between lustre or matte options for your pages, and a host of colors when selecting your linen cover material. Another option is to select the cameo, featuring an image directly on the front cover. And, don’t forget the embossing option to add that extra special touch to your photobook.
Don’t hesitate to get the dream photobook for your wedding that you’ve always wanted -- when you want the best, why settle for less? Cherish your memories forever.
]]>Why Slip-In Photo Albums?
For many, the appeal of a Printed Photobook, with the images permanently printed on a page, appeals to you. For others however, the freedom and ability to insert your own prints may be preferable. Maybe you want to have the option of replacing your own images at will into a photobook. To do this, you’ll need a slip-in photobook album.
What are Slip-In Photobooks?
A slip-in photobook album typically comes with pockets inside the page in which you can insert a number of preset size images, for instance 4x6” being a popular size. This gives you large amount of customizability in selecting which images you want in your photobook and also in what order, giving you a great experience in custom photobook design.
What Sizes and Capacities Are Available for a Custom Slip-In Photobook?
You can choose between multiple sizes and capacities, as well as selecting the overall size of the photobook itself - for a large design, you might consider a product such as Album Envy’s Heirloom - for a smaller design, choose the Euro.
As always, Album Envy’s premium custom photobook are designed with luxury in mind, featuring beautiful linen colors that are sure to impress, as well as having the capacities you want. For more information on sizes and capacities for the Euro and Heirloom Slip-in Photobooks, you can read more information here:
https://www.albumenvy.com/collections/all/slip-in#MainContent
Are There Any Pros and Cons to a Slip-In vs. a Printed Photobook?
A printed photobook does give a larger use of the page, as it can fill basically the entire page. There also is a noticeable quality difference, being that an image on a printed photobook page is going to be a higher resolution and quality than something that you may be printing at home or from a 1 hour photo service. Obviously the paper quality itself will be much higher from a premium custom photobook company such as Album Envy.
Another noticeable trait of slip-in photobooks vs. custom printed photobooks is that the slip-in photobooks are slightly smaller than some of the high-end options that come in the printed photobook. If you are looking for an absolutely top quality experience with a hefty photobook that comes in a larger size (such as a photobook that needs to fill space on a coffee table), you will definitely want to consider a printed photobook over a slip-in photobook.
However, if you are more of a scrapbooking type, and you enjoy the freedom of being able to not only use your own prints, but re-arrange them or change your mind about the order of photos that you select, you will want to go with the Slip-in option. Just keep in mind that the size of the photobook might be slightly smaller than what you might expect from a high-end printed photobook, depending on the size of the photobook you select and the size of your prints.
]]>While there are plenty of guides out there that talk about the higher concepts of photography equipment - shutter speed, aperture, exposure etc. this guide will simply point out some of the basics that you should be incorporating into your photo-taking process.
Lighting
The first tip is lighting. Whether you are taking photos for a vacation, a wedding, a party - the important thing to remember is that the better the light you have, the better. Most smartphones these days are continuously getting better and better in terms of the quality of the camera that they come shipped with, so it should be easy to simply use the automatic settings and take great quality photos with that.
Sometimes it can be as simple as opening a window, a door, turning a lamp on or off etc. in order to be able to get that really great shot. Changing the stance or standing place of a subject can also be a great way to help ease shadows and make sure the camera is able to capture really nice-looking colors and focus of the subject.
Where To Take The Photo?
It’s easy to take a photo -- but taking a great photo can be a matter of timing, patience, and of course - scene and setting. You might be at the beach, and maybe you want to grab a shot of your family against the beautiful ocean. So, doing some quick planning for the shot - what you want to have in the shot, be it some measure of the beach, maybe looking side-ways at the subject instead of just plain in front of the ocean - can be a great way to include some of the scene/setting that can make a good photo into a great one.
Scene and setting certainly play a part, but oftentimes changing simply the angle or elevation of the camera can be enough to completely change the energy and feel of a photograph. Think about how you will want the image to look in a photobook - are you going for an action shot, a calm shot, or simply looking to snap on the go? Thinking about these things in advance while taking a photo can be a great way to heighten the quality of the end result image.
Timing
Spontaneity can play a great role in photo taking -- sometimes a perfectly timed moment can eclipse even the best timed shot. A moment of humor, the family having fun playing around a volleyball court, a pie in the face -- any of these can be a great moment to capture to remember forever.
Using App Shortcut Placement
It’s important to always have that camera ready before a shot - in many cases putting the camera app onto a screen of your phone where you will have easy access to it, such as in the shortcut bar on your phone’s home screen, can be a great way to ensure you’re never out of the loop when a good moment comes.
Ultimately, how you take photos is up to you - but by following some of these simple tips, you can be sure to get the best possible image for your custom photobook.
]]>First, a custom photobook should be a solid remembrance of the event itself. For example, a wedding photobook can have different images of the bride and groom dancing, of the festivities, and the music. Don’t forget a picture of the cake as well, especially if its a large one! You will want to capture the essence, and the very feel of the entire event. So, be sure to plan out just how you will want those images to look.
Graduations are another type event that makes a great idea for a photobook. At these types of events, it can sometimes be tough to get close enough to your special someone, especially at college graduations where there can be many thousands of seats and people arranged in one place. In these cases, a telescopic lense can be a great addition to be able to capture the right images of the right moment. Of course, a graduation after-event or party can be another opportunity to fulfill those scrapbooking dreams of the perfect graduation event for your photobook.
When was the last time you took a family vacation? Or took a weekend getaway that you will really want to remember for all time? These types of events make perfect scrapbooking ideas. Travelling opens up many doors in terms of what you can take photos of, from tourist attractions, mountain heights, caves, to urban sprawl of the city. Whatever ideas you come up with, be sure to be prepared to take the perfect photos at the perfect moment.
Whether you are a stay at home type of person or an outgoing go-getter, there’s always an excuse to take out that camera and snap some perfect shots for your photobook. Have a beloved furry member of the family? Take some photos! Your little cat or dog will appreciate being the center of attention. (Not that they don’t already!)
In life, sometimes we simply just don’t get enough time for fun activities or events - so be sure to plan out spontaneous times where you can just be yourself and have fun with family and friends. A trip to the disc golf course, a homemade basketball game, or simply a night out on the town at a fancy restaurant with pretty lights - life is for living, so remember those moments which can only be cherished in a premium custom photobook, designed by you.
]]>In this article, we're going to show you how easy it is to order your luxury photobook from Album Envy.
First, make sure you have a selection of photos you want for your photobook - this can be vacation, wedding, graduation photos, any special event that you want put into a photo album that you can cherish forever.
Next, choose your photobook options by clicking into any of the photobooks shown on our main site. The Photobook is our lowest price point and features a basic, beautiful design with linen covers. Choose embossed or not embossed, a color, and any other optional items.
Next, scroll down and select Customize, where you'll have a chance to select the photobook layout and customize the image placement and other considerations.
You're then taken to a page where you can select your theme, layout, and other options.
Then, add your photos using our easy-to-use interface; change text, lettering, and more. For help, refer to our Help Center.
When you're finished uploading your photos, click the blue Add to Cart button at the top right.
That's it! You can check out in your cart, or make any changes that you need to.
We hope that you've enjoyed shopping with us. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact support via our Help Center.
With Love,
the Album Envy team
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Album Envy brings to the table a plethora of specialized options to the table, including color images on the front cover, hardcover, multiple capacities, ample color sections, and extra add-ons, such as embossing and slip-in pages where you can use your own prints for a photobook (instead of a printed photobook). There’s a fine line to be drawn when it comes to quality vs. value, and in this case the price points are just right for these luxury, premium-grade custom photobooks.
The Photobook is a practical, straightforward photo album, coming stock with a linen cover and high-quality lustre paper. It comes in a 5x5 size all the way up to 9x6. The color options for the Photobook are black, chestnut, marsala, navy, red, and teal. The great thing about the Photobook is obviously being able to customize the print sizes and select a capacity. If you’re looking for a solid starter option that will last you through the ages, the Photobook is your album of choice.
The Hybrid combines a lay-flat design with linen and leatherette options. Once again, Album Envy does not disappoint with absolute premium quality professional-grade paper and stunning color balance. There is a Hybrid Cameo option where you can feature a photo right on the cover in a square design inset on the cover. If you’re looking for an option that really stands out with a “wow” factor, this is the custom photobook for you.
Lastly, the Album is the most expensive option offered by Album Envy. It comes in several different options including Cameo (featuring a small square photo section on the front cover) as well as Acrylic, which is an option for featuring the entire cover with a full image that covers the whole front of the photobook! The perfect choice for an all-out gift that leaves nothing to be desired. For the minimalist, there is also a plain solid-color cover option, for a subtle unstated beauty.
All of these custom photobooks feature embossing, for custom “engraving” of text into the actual cover of the photobook itself. The great thing about photobooks is that there is no time of year where they aren’t a great idea - weddings, graduations, vacations, special events, a gift for a loved one -- they can fulfill the need for any occasion which will be a memorable one. Furthermore, unlike many gifts that can wear out or be forgotten about, the photobook is one that will always have special meaning, as well as look great on a bookshelf or coffee table for years to come.
]]>Back to School
From loved ones to little ones, you can’t go wrong with a photobook that sums up the best of the summer. But what about back to school? This can be a great time to catch those deals and buy a photobook that highlights the progress of your student. A commemorative photobook will capture a special moment in time that you may not have a chance to capture again.
A back to school photobook can be a great idea, with cover customizations, custom colors, and sizes to match any need you have for your photobook collection. You can be sure it will stand the test of time being that its printed on professional grade paper. If you needed different capacities for example, this is something that Album Envy offers as well.
End of Summer
Did you go on a vacation this summer? Do anything fun with the family? Even if you enjoyed a nice stay-cation, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying how you spent your time with others, and nothing beats a good photobook to have a permanent fixture for your coffee table or custom photobook collection.
It goes without saying that each summer is a precious time - use that time wisely and plan some events with your family. If you had a family event, get-together, or even just took a day to the beach, these could make a great photo set for an album. You won’t regret it. Don’t let the moment pass - collect your finest prints and then have them preserved forever in a custom photobook.
How A Physical Photobook Beats A Digital Photo Album
We’ve all heard of the pros and cons of having a physical photobook vs. a digital photo album, such as on your smartphone. The truth is, there are benefits and drawbacks to each. However, let’s explore some of the ups and downs of both.
First, a smartphone album will have a smaller (in some cases tiny) screen - and it also doesn’t pack the same punch as a premium, hardcover photobook. If your goal is to show someone that you care, a printed quality photobook will say that much better than “hey, look at my phone”. It shows that you spent time on the person and care about them. A smartphone’s advantage is that obviously you can change photos as quickly as swiping a screen.
A physical photobook is the ultimate expression of appreciation for someone. Not only do they get something tangible - a physical object that they can hold and see - but that something is built to last. A custom photobook looks great on a coffee table, a bookshelf, and is itself a standalone item whose sole purpose is to be appreciated. While it will take up space, in a well-designed room it becomes part of your layout and can even add energy to a room, or make a tablespace complete.
For more information on premium custom photobooks, view Album Envy’s products here!
https://www.albumenvy.com/collections/all
Think Spring!
Now's the time of year where you can start thinking about putting cold weather behind you. Sunny days and fun times are coming - maybe even a vacation? So now more than ever is the time to make that photo album a dream come true.
Are you planning an upcoming wedding? Or a special family getaway? Or maybe you're not sure exactly what options you have for a photo album? With the dizzying array of selections available out there, it's best to get a clear idea of what you're looking for.
Some photo albums will come with embossing options, or slip-in photo cover options. In the case of Album Envy photo albums, you can get high-quality professional printed albums which have a beautiful visual appeal and high durability. You also have the option of a blank "slip-in" photobook for those that want a more customizable page-by-page control over their photobook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/albumenvy/shop/
For weddings, the premium feel and top-grade paper of a luxury photobook are a beautiful and rewarding experience. An acrylic cover choice can cover the entire front cover with a full-frame photo, while a Cameo option is an inset photo choice (think a smaller square-size image on the front cover). Both options add a nice touch to a normally blank cover color.
What sets apart most premium photobooks from others is their size options, customization options, and materials -- it's worth it to make sure to choose options that are maximized in all of these areas. Options like linen and leatherette are considered durable and will also have a high degree of visual appeal.
Whatever trip or special moment you've got planned, you can bet Album Envy has you covered for the best photobook options available.
https://www.albumenvy.com
Creating a unique photobook can pose many questions. What material, what size, what photo capacity options? Looking at the various options available can give you a clearer picture of how to design your special photobook for best results.
The first thing to consider is the occasion. Will your photo book be a gift, maybe a commemoration, or a treasured reminder of a family vacation? Or will the photo album be a reward, such as a graduation memoir? Still yet, wedding photo albums might require different design decisions than a photo book for other life events. Be sure to consider all the possibilities when you make a photobook.
Here are some example photobook materials offered by Album Envy:
Linen is a great standard choice for many photo albums. It's soft to the touch yet durable; it's an affordable option if you want to combine high quality with value. Leather on the other hand is even tougher; great for occasions such as rustic weddings or graduations. If you want an image visible on the cover, it's worth it to check to see if that option is actually available with linen vs. leatherette.
Choosing the right cover options for your photobook will allow your memories to withstand the test of time, and give your special gift the right touch. If possible, try to match the look, color, and feel of the photobook to the personality of the recipient, or the character of the event the photobook will contain.
Another option to consider for your photo album is photo capacity size. Some standard sizes include 8x8", 8x10", 10x8", 9x12”, 12x9”, 10x10”, 11x14”, 14x11” and 12x12”. Some things to think about will be the size of your current collection of photos, as well as any new additional photos you might wish to take. Some events might need many photos in a photobook, while some events might call for less. Again, thinking ahead about what you want your photobook to be at the end of the designing will be helpful.
The quality of the photo album says alot about what the events contained therein mean to you; you'll want to take care to explore the various options available. The Album Envy line of products contains 3 primary options for making your memories cherished in a photo album: The Photobook, The Hybrid, and The Album. You can learn more about these high-quality products by visiting https://www.albumenvy.com.
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Choosing a Valentine’s Day gift can be fun and romantic, or stressful and uncertain. Whether in a new relationship or old, we want our partner to feel loved and be loved in return. That can be a tricky choice.
The solution? Make a photo book to win their heart! Anyone can buy chocolates or flowers, but a book of memories is a truly personal and one of a kind gift. There are so many themes that say I love you:
To help you make your love album exquisite we’re introducing limited-time Valentine cover options, available only through February 28, 2019. Take a look at these delicious colors and choose one for your new book. Photographs just can't do them justice!
American Beauty is a fine textured linen fabric the smooth fuschia pink shade of it's namesake rose. | Sweetheart is a fine textured linen fabric. It's sugary pink hue says I adore you! in any language. |
Beloved is a tone on tone brocade fabric the true red of a Valentine heart. The image can't do this pattern justice.* | Te Amo is a rich sangria toned leatherette with the subtle and even texture of Emu hide. For the rugged yet gentle Valentine* |
Mon Amour is a deep, glossy red, genuine leather. At home on any Paris runway.* | Passion is a hot pink genuine suede. The luxurious touch is sure to warm any heart.* |
* Foil imprinting is not available on these cover materials.
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Planning Your Next Vacation: It’s never too early to start some practical fantasizing about your next getaway. Budgets may be limited, but your imagination doesn’t have to be - start thinking about that place you’ve always wanted to visit, or those things you always wanted to do.
Get Ready For Important Events: Every year holds new surprises, ups and downs, and hopefully your next dreams come true. With that in mind, it’s a great idea to prepare for those special events: graduations, parties, birthdays, and special occasions. Remember, it’s never a bad idea to keep that camera ready for memories you may want to preserve in a photo album.
Spend More Time With Family: We all could use more time, right? Especially the best time of all: time spent with our loved ones. Make the most of what you have, but don’t be afraid to balance out your day to make room for those who matter most in your life.
Decide What Memories To Keep: We get it - there’s way too many memories to even fit into one photobook. From baby’s first steps, to graduation, to mother’s day, father’s day, vacation, or even just snapshots of those little daily moments - it’s important to save these in a format that will last the test of time.
There you go: 4 ways you can ring in the new year with an eye towards the future. They say preparation makes perfect, so get out there and make the new year happen!
Love,
Album Envy
View our latest products at: https://www.albumenvy.com/
]]>It's that time of year - again! As we approach the holidays, many of us try to find the perfect gifts. What are some good, new ideas? What gifts should I get for mom, dad, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, cousins, family, or friends?
Don’t scramble to find the perfect gift this year when a Photobook or Album is exactly what you need to put a smile on your loved one's face.
1. It's a gift that will last a lifetime. With our premium hardcover album, you can bet it's going to be durable and withstand the tests of time. Check out options that include rich linen, leatherette, leather, or photo-panel covers. When you know that a gift will last for many years to come, you can be sure it's a good choice.
2. A personal gift shows how much you care. In an era where "stuff" can pile up quickly, you don't want to spend money on gifts they won’t use, don’t need, or already have. A photo album is the unexpected gift that shows the connection you have—the perfect personal gift that shows that you truly care.
3. The emotional impact value for your dollar is higher than ever. With an Album Envy photo book starting at $36, the wow-factor you can bring to a gift becomes impressively high. For about the price of a gift card or two, you can make a lasting impression that won't break the bank.
4. Complete customization to match the taste of your loved one. Through cover material or selection of your own photos printed on flawless image quality paper, you can fine-tailor the gift of a photobook to suit your friends' or family member's personal style.
5. A big reason for the season is to celebrate who's special in our lives. If you're looking for a photo album that says you care, it's a good idea to make it unique - just like the people you care about. A photo book highlights those memories or events that we share with those around us.
No matter what you choose for your loved one, there's nothing better than finding that great gift that has meaning -- something that speaks volumes about your relationship and celebrates the time spent with a friend or family member. A Photobook, Hybrid, or Album can say all that and more to your loved one. If finding the right gift is important to you this season, make sure it's something special that lasts a lifetime.
For more tips and special offers, subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.albumenvy.com/
Visit our main site at: www.albumenvy.com/
My phone is overflowing with pictures from the past couple of months, and I bet yours is too. Fall is full of special events and moments that we want to share and remember. Images of the back-to-school joys and woes. Homecoming, tailgating, and football games. The joie de vivre of our pups on fall-color hikes. Saturday morning apple picking, with cider and doughnuts. The Great Pumpkin patch, and best of all - Halloween!
This year, organize your images while the memories are fresh in your mind instead of just adding them to your growing digital pile.
We look at photos on tiny screens that can’t do them justice. There is nothing like the experience of holding a quality, personalized book in your hands, whether it's cute and purse-sized or an elegant coffee table centerpiece. Not only do photo books give special pictures the “weight” they deserve, but they are also a keepsake gift that is sure to be appreciated.
Our Album Envy family wants to help you become a master graphic storyteller. Even if you’ve never created a photo book before, we can help you be successful. We’re passionate about photography and will help make crafting your story simple and affordable.
So now that you’re ready for the fun of creating a masterpiece, how can you get the most out of your book? Here are some tips for creating an eye-catching photo book you will love.
Choosing the size and style of your perfect book has a lot to do with who will be enjoying it. A present that Grandma will love may look different than the one you create for a friend (or yourself). Do you want a style that is elegant, or casual? Sized for your coffee table, or to carry with you? With a linen cover for mom, or more durable material to send to your brother in the Armed Forces?
Companion books may be what you need. For pictures of your wedding or new baby, pair a larger and elegant keepsake Album with a small, portable Photobook of your favorite shots to show off to friends and co-workers.
Before you begin, take a few minutes to plan your basic theme. There are as many ways to customize an Album Envy book as there are unique styles of the photographer. Deciding on a theme will make those other choices easier and result in a more professional and consistent look and feel.
The best stories reflect the emotion of the event and the personality of the creator. Should your book be light and bright or dark and serious? Elegant or casual? Funny or reverent? Respectful or celebrating? And with artistic calm or sports action?
Consider size and shape choices too. Your family vacation to the Grand Canyon will look amazing in a larger, landscape book to showcase those panoramic “WOW” shots. A long weekend at the waterpark may result in casual, fun shots that show best in a smaller square version.
The choice is yours. One cue for identifying the right theme is to think about how the moment made you feel. What is it that you most want the viewer to experience and remember? Include features or accents that are of interest to the reader or share a bit of your personality. By keeping your audience in mind, you can develop a theme that makes a statement.
The outside appearance makes your book's first impression. We offer a range of cover styles and materials that can create any effect you choose. The classic simplicity of a solid cover creates a professional look, just right for graduation or a professional portfolio. A photo cover adds instant recognition, an on-trend alternative to the customary framed photo. Descriptive text imprinting can be added to most covers to make them truly one of a kind.
Our textured papers, elegant linens, and classic leatherette cover materials come in a variety of popular color choices. Because of the beauty of these books, it is common to choose a color scheme to compliment the room where it will be displayed.
Your images are the real stars of the show. Narrowing your choice isn’t always easy—digital cameras let us take many more pictures than in the past with film. Good general practice is to review similar shots as a set and choose the one that speaks the clearest and is most attractive. What makes a great image is a matter of opinion, but some common considerations are a clear focus, true-to-life colors, balanced composition, and the perennial question—does everyone have their eyes open?
While it’s natural to include only the best shots, you may lose context that makes the overall book more enjoyable. In some cases, a sequence of similar pictures like showing the reaction to a surprise party will help the viewer feel like they were there.
Cropping is the easiest thing you can do to improve your photographs. It is simple to crop images with most free mobile-phone or online photo software, and even within the Album Envy design tool as you build your book. Our next Visual Storytelling article will teach you the reasons for and techniques of cropping.
Unless you love photo-bombs, trimming away extra space or distracting elements can dramatically improve a picture. Cropping also lets you control composition, placing the picture's focus exactly where you want it.
Once you have chosen your photos and made any adjustments, saving all the digital files in one folder will make creating online quicker and easier.
Just like any other story, the beginning and end frame your experience. Increase visual impact by choosing full-size quality images on your first and last pages. A photo book differs from an online album in that the pictures are usually viewed in a fixed order rather than by randomly clicking images. A wedding or vacation story flows naturally in the order that things took place. Using chronological order will help convey “real-time” experience.
Our design tool has built-in layout templates that allow you to choose the number, arrangement, and orientation of photos on your pages. These are easy to use and are a quick way to get started.
Variety is fun, but avoid the temptation of changing the look drastically from page to page. Think of a step-wise approach—soften a transition from one large photo per page to a collage of many small shots by placing a spread of medium images between them.
If you choose to create a custom layout, try to use consistent border sizes and spacing between photos. Our eyes see two-page spreads as a pair, so design them to support each other. Symmetry and design consistency are less jarring and will better serve your project overall. Facing pages are often appealing when arranged as mirror images of one another.
Sharing your family vacation to the Grand Canyon? Consider contrasting large prints of the vastness and grandeur with more intimate shots of smaller rock formations or clouds. Remember the emotion you felt and try to recreate that experience.
Because all Album Envy pages have a lay-flat construction with no center gap or binding, you have the freedom to treat facing pages like individuals, or as one wide panoramic spread. Play with our variety of layout options to discover what gives your book the right energy and flow.
Our design tool lets you add text or captions to any of your pages. You can choose to include text boxes on any page automatically or to add them later, where ever, and whenever you like. Captions are a fun way to personalize your book, record the people and action, or set the photos in a specific place and time. A photo book of landscapes from a road trip may be complemented by the date and location, while a family or high-school reunion can include names or description of the action or event. Again, a consistent approach will result in a more attractive presentation.
Whether you’re making an album for yourself or as a gift, creating photo books is a hobby anyone can enjoy. We’re always here to help you along the way. If you have any questions, check out our FAQs and how-to videos or watch our videos on YouTube and Facebook. Or contact us at ae-support@albumenvy.com.
What are you waiting for? Start creating today and let us help bring the joy of beautiful photo books to your life!
]]>Samantha and Ray have had an exciting year. They had been trying to start a family for some time and were overjoyed to learn that Sam was expecting. And then even bigger news—they were having twins!
George and Brinton were born in April, and are healthy, contented babies. They were a gift for the whole family—the first grandchildren on Ray’s side and joining three girl cousins on Sam’s. The first twins in either family!
You can rightly describe Sam’s family as the ultimate Michigan hockey fans. She and her siblings all learned to skate practically as soon as they could walk. Ray played hockey as a kid, and the couple met while Sam’s dad was Ray’s team coach. Their engagement photos include shots of the couple in Red Wings’ jerseys on the steps of Joe Louis Arena. The custom names on their backs read Mr. Monahan and Mrs. Monahan.
So, it only follows that George and Brinton’s newborn photos feature a lot of red and white. In some shots, the boys are wrapped in Ray’s Mr. Monahan jersey, next to tiny hockey sticks.
The couple’s photographer gave them their digital photos and recommended Album Envy as a way Sam and Ray could create their newborn album. They were pleased with how fast and easy it was to use Album Envy’s online design software. That’s a bonus when you have twins! They appreciated the full range of layout options--as Sam said: “you won’t make a cookie-cutter album.” To personalize, they added text captions with the boys’ names and birthdate.
The Monahans were surprised when the package arrived so quickly. It was a special moment when they opened their Album. Samantha cried, because she said, “It was so much more than I expected.” The acrylic photo cover paired with supple white leather was the perfect way to highlight their favorite picture of the boys.
Both she and Ray feel “it’s like holding a piece of art. This is way too pretty to put on a bookshelf—we want to keep it out all the time.” They took their Album to a family dinner the next evening, and it was a big hit with everyone. Their brother and sister-in-law, who recently married, now want to use Album Envy for their wedding pictures.
It looks like Album Envy is a new family favorite. Sam says that next April they plan to make a “Babies’ First Year” book, starting with ultrasound pictures and ending with the icing all over the boys’ faces. I can’t wait to see it!
]]>This morning I saw another Back-to-School sale ad and realized how quickly summer is passing. Soon we’ll be sending kids off to class instead of to camp. Fortunately, you still have time to capture some summer fun before the pace picks up again.
Many of us have a phone full of recent pictures. If your photos from summers past are buried in a digital pile, why not try something different this year? While the memories and details of these moments are fresh in your mind, invest a little time to preserve them with a photo book.
Your kids are sure to love an album of family activities. But how do you create a lifetime book they will never forget? The one that even as adults they will pull out when they say – “remember that summer when we….” Why not take advantage of a rainy or just-too-hot day and make a book together with them? Here are some ideas of which shots to choose from your collection:
Firsts and foremosts. What made this year different or special? Include pictures of your kid’s firsts - a new friend from the park, a weekend road trip to a small town you just discovered, or the first time catching a fish. Highlight the most special new activity from this year with a full-page photo.
Vacation. What was your family adventure this summer? Whether camping, theme parks, or a cross-country trek to the Grand Canyon, you probably have lots of vacation pictures. Along with the postcard shots, include some of the simple moments that will refresh your senses—the diner with those delicious burgers, the breathtaking colors of a mountain sunset, or the field of curious cows who smelled like “things growing”!
The Dog Days of Summer. On a sweltering day, nothing beats a swim, especially for our four-legged family members. The happy face of a wet dog in summer is always a winner, whether cooled by the lawn sprinkler, a dip in the kiddy pool, or bobbing for sticks in a local lake.
Be a good sport. Summer sports always make for great conversation. Team pictures in matching uniforms are nice mementos, but shots in the heat of soccer or swim team action and the dirt of sliding into home plate evoke the true experience. Or include selfies from a special family outing to a major league game, dressed in your team colors.
The camp experience. Whether it’s a sleepaway or day camp, some amazing things can happen in these kid-focused environments. What was their favorite part of camp? Making new friends, or learning to canoe? Singing and enjoying smores around the campfire? (Extra marshmallow chicks saved in your freezer make the best smores!). Be sure to include shots of parent’s day.
Summer-only moments. Sometimes the most special memories are made in the simplest moments of every day. Flying kites and waging water-balloon battles. Discovering sun-warmed tomatoes in your patio garden or at a U-pick. Family barbeques and back-yard campouts. Those are the “remember when” moments of years to come. It’s going to be hard to say goodbye to the green and sunny days of summer. You can’t control how quickly time passes, but you can make the most of the moments you have by preserving the memories that come with them. Live these last warm weeks like they are the best of your life. And keep taking lots of pictures!
]]>Photographing cats can be a lot like herding cats. I often refer to them as the teenagers of the pet world. They can be left alone for the weekend, but they will probably throw a party and trash your house. If you are cat person, you alread know this. If you are not a cat person, let me give you some tips & tricks to get you over the hurdle and start taking better pictures of our feline friends.
- PATIENCE -
Don't expect to take a great cat picture the moment you get out your phone or camera. It never fails, you see a great shot, grab your phone, and your cat spoils the shot by coming over to see what you have. They are curious by nature. It's going to happen, repeatedly. Get used to it now. You might as well snap a few images to warm up and get the cat used to you and the phone/camera. They will quickly realize the camera isn't a treat and go about their merry way again. Good cat shots tend to involve some waiting for the right moment or time. Don't give up.
- SPEND TIME WITH YOUR FELINE SUBJECT -
Tying in with patience, be willing to spend some time getting to know your feline subject, especially if you are new to them or they are in a new environment. They will most likely be standoffish until they get to know you and feel comfortable in their surroundings. Breaking the ice with a few treats might help, but it will really depend on the personality and temperament of the cat. Some cats are very outgoing with people, others are skittish. If it's not your cat you are trying to photograph, ask the pet parent about the cat's history. Do they have bad experiences with loud noises? Were they once feral? You may have to build a little trust before any good images follow.
- GET ON THEIR LEVEL -
The magic happens when you can (literally) get on a cat's level. Once comfortable with you and their surroundings, cats will show you who they are. That's when the fun begins. They stop seeing you as a stranger and more like one of their own. They get comfortable having you up in their face, and you just might catch something completely awesome by accident. Look very closely at the background of the above pic. Tell me when you see it.
- PLAY TIME -
This one easily ties in to some of our previous topics and is a great trust building exercise. If you can get a cat to play with you, they tend to forget that they may have been wary of you just a few moments before. Beware of sudden movements here however, as they can still spook pretty easily. Capturing action shots is hard to do by yourself, but don't be afraid to play with one hand and be ready to shoot with the other. It can lead to some fun results.
- HAPPY ACCIDENTS -
Be ready for happy accidents. These are the shots you may or may not intend to get but end up being fun and different. Filters & creative captions often enhance these shots. My personal favorite apps for my phone are Hipstamatic (when I want funky Holga style effects and borders) and Lightroom for mobile (when I want more natural looking shots). I like to use weird (not pretty) images as an opportunity to get creative and create funny stories via captions.
- IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS -
Lastly, it's the little things that can make an interesting cat photo. Does your cat have cute paws, a missing ear, extra toes, mis-matched eyes? Is there something small that makes your cat unique? Is the cat a rescue? Did the cat adopt you? Just like people, every cat has a backstory. Use this as a starting point for your cat shoot. Get up close and personal. Show the world the little things that make your cat unique.
Guest posted by Lisa Hoffman
For more feline inspiration, follow My Feline Overlords on Instagram.
Whether they’ve been there from the first steps, or stepped-in later, show all the special father figures in your life how much they mean with a custom photo book to highlight your special relationship. Photo Books make the best father’s day gifts no matter if you are near and dear, or separated by a busy life and too many miles.
Gift Ideas for Dad:
Album Envy makes designing easy with simple-to-use online design software, an optional auto-fill feature, and tons of layouts, text styles, backgrounds, borders and clip art to bring your creation to life.
Share the love with the one you call Dad--discover the gift of Album Envy.
]]>Graduation is an exciting time. It’s both an ending and a beginning; it’s warm memories of the past and big dreams for the future. It is a time to be shared, and more importantly, to be remembered. Photo books make the best graduation gifts - something to look back on as they stride forward in their lives. Skip the poster board and tape at your graduation open house or party, instead proudly display a custom photo book to family and friends sharing all the best moments and proudest achievements that brought your Grad to this turning point.
Send your Graduate off with a book of well-wishes by creating a guestbook for signatures. Just be sure to put out special photo pens meant for photographs to avoid smearing or damage to the prints. Some good choices are the Promaster Archival Marking Pen and American Crafts Slick Writer. Check your local craft store or order online from a variety of retailers.
Album Envy’s online design tools make it easy to create a special memory book or guest book for your graduate. The optional auto-fill feature can get you start to finish in minutes, or you may choose to add further customizations, playing with cool layouts, backgrounds, borders, text and clip art. The sky is the limit! To create a great senior guest book, try removing some of the photo placeholders to leave blank space for signatures.
We suggest:
The Hybrid - your best bet for a graduation gift or open house guest book. It’s a hardcover book in beautiful linen or leatherette cover choices, it has a wide range of sizes, and great cover styles like a cameo image or photo panel front cover.
The Photobook - great choice for grandparent or godparent gifts.
The Album - the ultimate choice for high-end luxury.
]]>The best time of day to take outdoor portrait photos using natural light is in the few hours after sunrise and before sunset. This is due in part to the angle of the sun as it changes position throughout the day. Sunlight strikes your subject from a low angle at the beginning or end of the day, and a high angle during midday. You should also pay attention to whether the sun is hitting your subject from the front, side or back. Here are a few of the best combinations we have found:
Low Angle Light – The Cream of the Crop
Light that shines from a low angle is less intense and tends to be warmer which can produce pleasing colors and skin tones. Low angle lighting works best from the side as this is the ideal scenario for creating interesting shadows that define objects and scenery. Try positioning your subject so the light is coming in from the side and a little to the front. For a breathtaking beauty shot, ask your subject to turn their face toward the light while turning their shoulders or body slightly away.
The Sun Doesn’t Always Shine
Even if it’s a cloudy, overcast day, you can still create beautiful pictures - those clouds can actually act as a giant filter for otherwise harsher light. This type of light is extremely soft and can enable smooth transitions between shadows. Filtered light is also very flattering to the skin and can help you capture gorgeous portraits.
Practice Makes Perfect
As with any new skill, the more you practice the more you will be able to predict how to make the lighting work best for you and what you want to accomplish. Not only will this allow you more freedom in terms of creativity, but you will also find new and interesting ways to express yourself.
]]>We’ve all heard the phase “a picture is worth a thousand words.” So, what would a picture be worth if you knew all the techniques for proper exposure? Dare we say “priceless”? In any case, you’d definitely feel more empowered to take beautiful photos.
The Three Basic Tenets
In terms of exposure, there are three basic tenets to consider: ISO, aperture and shutter speed. Like baking the perfect cookies, when measured and mixed together properly, these ingredients will make your photos crisp, clear and well lit.
Album Envy was created because we feel you deserve photo books as beautiful as those usually reserved for photographers. It’s easy to recommend products that we truly believe in. For us, Album Envy is a love story. Here’s why we know you’ll love them too…
Envy Print Quality
Many books available to the public are printed in dots of ink, resulting in poor quality reproduction of your photos. Album Envy’s expert printmakers use gold-standard photographic printing on portrait-grade paper, ensuring your images display true-to-life colors and ultra-sharp clarity.
Envy Professional Construction
At Album Envy, most common upgrades are standard.
Admire the modern, lay-flat construction—page spreads are not pinched in the center, letting your photos flow uninterrupted, edge-to-edge. Feel the quality of pages 5 to 10 times thicker than the average. Solid spines support the pages and keep your book from skewing over time. Lined covers and fly leaves in your Album add an extra layer of stability, protection, and elegance.
Envy Style
Choose from one-of-a-kind styles you won’t see anywhere else.
It’s OK to judge our books by their covers. Choose from a range of colors and materials including soft linens, rich leatherettes, and genuine leathers. Feature your favorite image front and center in a cameo frame, or in a Photo Panel or glossy Acrylic, both of which are paired with your choice of material wrapping the spine and back. This stylish and durable construction protects against wear and tear. You’ll find the perfect fit with our wide range of sizes, from stunning large display pieces to cute little brag books.
Envy Ease
Life keeps you busy. Our album building software is fast and easy to use – no experience necessary!
Let the auto-fill feature create your book, or use the drag & drop tools to tell your story. Make it unique with your choice of design templates, backgrounds, borders and text. Collaborate and share with friends, family, and community organizations. Finish with fast, secure online ordering, and quick production and delivery.
Envy Dedication
Good design demands great quality control.
Our team has a passion for excellence. The artisans who craft your Album Envy books have decades of professional photographic experience. They give each book the white-glove treatment, so your order arrives defect-free, with a fit and finish that will make you smile. If you have any questions, our fantastic customer service personnel will ensure you love your Album Envy as much as we do.
Your photographs deserve the best—Album Envy delivers.
]]>Celebrate Mom this Mother's Day with a personalized photo gift!Forget the flowers - give mom a gift that will live on forever! What could be more cherished by the woman that knows you best? Whether it’s a trip down memory lane, a recent family getaway, or a compilation of the best photos of the kiddos, an Album Envy photo book or album is sure to be the favorite gift of all the special mothers in your life.
]]>DIY album design doesn't have to be hard. Follow these basic tips for designing photo books and even beginners can create beautiful album layouts like the pros.
Keep it Simple
Try not to overcrowd your pictures. It may be tempting to try and put as many photos as you can on one page, but remember, sometimes less is more, and too many images can become distracting.
Create a Focal Point
Choose one image to catch the eye, and make it larger than the rest of the photos supporting it in the layout.
Vary Your Spreads
Try to mix up your layouts to create a variety for the viewer. Utilizing the same layout multiple times in the album is fine, but try scattering it out through the course of the design. Placing a full-page photo on one side of your spread next to a smaller, bordered photo on the other page is another great way to create variation, and is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
Tell a Story
Even if the viewer wasn’t present, your album layout should tell a story, making them feel as if they were. This will also to help you come back to that particular moment later, allowing you to relive the memory over and over again. Chronology will work best here, try to keep the order of events in sequence to create a natural flow to the story you’re trying to tell.
We've scoured the best of the best and gathered up the Top 5 wedding trends to watch for in 2018. Read on to see what made the list.
Ultra Violet Purple
The hottest color trend this year-Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2018: Ultra Violet! This means tons of purple pops will show in elements like bridesmaids’ dresses, invitations, florals and table decor.
Navy is the New Black
As an alternative to formal black, brides and grooms are opting for dark blue as their wedding color palette for tuxedos, suits and bridesmaids dresses.
Silver & Chrome Accents
Metallics are here to stay, but instead of gold, brass and rose gold, which have been popular for the past few years, couples are bringing silver and chrome into the mix for 2018 wedding trends.
Woodsy Weddings
According to The Wedding Wire the woodland wedding theme is one of the most romantic 2018 wedding decor trends, with enchanting nature-inspired elements like moss, fern leaves, and abundant flowers taking the lead. Hanging centerpieces are a huge component of this style — you can easily transform any space by suspending lush flowers and greenery from the ceiling for a "secret garden" vibe.
Mobile Bars
From vintage camper vans to refurbished horse boxes, we’re seeing plenty of quirky options for mobile bars in 2018. Combine that with the recently popularity of prosecco, craft beers and gin bars at weddings, and you have yourself one hell of a party! loveyourweddingmag.com
Today, nearly everyone has a phone with a camera in their pocket or purse, and we rely on those devices to store our special moments. It's great when you want to quickly show off a photo of your dog to someone next to you in the dentist office waiting room, but we miss out on the basic idea of WHY we take photos in the first place.Photos capture moments in time and help us relive those moments ourselves and share those moments with others, now and in the future.
When we rely on whatever is the technology of the day (floppy disks, hard drives, CDs/DVD, thumb drives, device storage, cloud storage) we're forgetting that technology is constantly evolving, and although it may seem like we know how to access our picutres today, we really aren’t doing much to preserve those memories for the future - do you still own a VCR or 8-track player? And let's face it, we really aren't logging-in and enjoying our digitally stored photos either. We tend to post and forget.
A printed photo album will never need special equipment to view it. It will never be forgotten along with your password. A picture book can be kept on the coffee table, enjoyed at will, and requires no batteries. We all know the sense of nostalgia and connection we feel when flipping through the old photo collections made by our parents and grandparents. A picture on a computer screen just can't replace a tangible book that archives our special moments to tell our stories. At Album Envy, we've committed to crafting our Photobook, Hybrid and Album to a higher standard of quality making them worthy as keepsakes you will treasure for a lifetime.
]]>Photo books & albums aren't just limited to weddings & babies - they're a great way to document all of life's adventures! Here's a list with some ideas to inspire your next creation!