Written by Paul Mosley, Founder of Inkifi
Overview
- A premium photo book turns your most meaningful memories into something you can hold and revisit.
- Choosing the right binding, paper, and layout style makes the difference between “printed pictures” and a book that feels timeless.
- You don’t need design experience — a clear story and clean layout go further than complex templates.
- This guide explains how to create a photo book that feels intentional, elevated, and built to last.
Why Make a Premium Photo Book?
Some moments deserve more than a camera roll. Weddings, the arrival of a child, family holidays, quiet seasons of everyday life. A premium photo book gives these memories a physical presence — something that lives on a coffee table or shelf, always within reach.
- Tangible, lasting memories: print endures beyond devices and backups.
- A story, not a scatter: your best photographs arranged intentionally.
- Something your family will actually look at: children return to photo books again and again.
1. Start With the Story
Before layouts or covers, decide what story the book is telling. This keeps the design focused and avoids the “camera roll dump” effect.
- A wedding or elopement
- A year in the life of your family
- A honeymoon or special trip
- A baby’s first year
Tip: Title the book before selecting photos. The title clarifies the narrative and sets the tone.
2. Choose Layflat Binding
In a premium book, pages should open completely flat — with no image loss in the centre. This allows full-bleed images, wide landscapes, and group shots to sit elegantly across the spread.
- Layflat binding: thick pages, archival inks, lasting durability.
- Perfect-bound: cheaper, prone to curved pages and spine cracking.
3. Select a Linen or Fabric Cover
The cover sets the tone before the first page is turned. For a premium finish, choose linen or textured fabric with a minimal title — foil stamping works beautifully.
4. Keep the Layout Clean
Premium books feel calm, not crowded. White space gives your photographs room to breathe.
- One to two images per page
- Occasional full-bleed hero images
- Avoid collages and decorative borders
5. Curate Thoughtfully
A premium photo book is not about including every photo — it’s about choosing the most meaningful ones.
Aim for 60–120 images depending on book length.
6. Choose Quality Paper
- Matte or soft-lustre finish
- Thick layflat pages
- Archival-quality inks
- FSC-certified materials
7. Add a Short Dedication
“For the moments that made this year ours.”
8. Making a Family Yearbook?
9. Short on Time? Use SmartBook
Inkifi SmartBook selects and designs the book layout for you. Upload from your phone, adjust if needed, order when ready.
Premium Photo Book FAQs
- How many photos should I include?
- 60–120 is a good range — enough to tell a story without overcrowding pages.
- Matte or lustre paper?
- Both are premium; matte feels soft and modern, lustre adds gentle depth.
- Can I make a photo book from my phone?
- Yes. SmartBook lets you upload, auto-design, and order directly from your phone.
Final Thoughts
A premium photo book isn’t about perfection. It’s about preserving the moments that matter — in a form that lasts.
Your memories deserve to live in print.