You're not alone if you're wondering what the difference is between a photo book and a photo album. There are lots of things that set these two apart. In this article, we'll break down the most important differences that matter to most people. Plus, we'll show you the pros and cons of each so you can make the best choice for your photos. Read on to decide if a photo book or album is right for you.
The way a photo book is made is different from a photo album. These differences affect how they look, feel, and last. You'll find these differences no matter which company you choose.
But what really sets one photo book or album apart from another? The materials, techniques, and technologies used. These details make a big difference in the quality and longevity of your finished product.
At Artibo, we call our photo books and albums "Artibooks". They all share one thing in common: top-notch quality. Whether you choose a photo book or an album, you're getting a product that's built to last.
Let's dive into the specifics of photo books and albums so you can find the perfect one for your memories.
1. A photo album opens flat, often referred to as 'lay-flat,' while a photo book has a visible spine.
A photo album is designed to open completely flat, creating a seamless, panoramic view of your photos. This means you can enjoy your wide-angle shots, landscapes, and detailed images without any distractions. Whether it's a stunning panorama or a close-up of a wedding ring, every detail will be showcased.
Photo books, while beautiful in their own right, have a more traditional binding that doesn't allow for a completely flat layout. We recommend avoiding placing important elements in the center of a photo book to prevent them from being obscured.
2. Designing photo albums and photo books: Spreads vs. pages.
Photo albums are defined by their spreads, which are two-page layouts treated as a single design. Photo books, however, focus on individual pages. Unlike photo books, which start on the right and end on the left, photo albums begin and end with a spread.
3. Rigid cards of a photo album and soft pages of a photo book.
Photo albums are known for their thick, stiff pages, often weighing up to 800 gsm. This gives them a sturdy, high-quality feel. They're great for family albums, weddings, or landscapes. Photo books, with their thinner pages (120-290 gsm), are more flexible and can hold more photos.
4. Photo book vs. photo album: Which is best for your photos?
A photo album is perfect for you if:
- you want to create a truly special display for your photos,
- you have a small collection of precious memories. Our photo albums can hold at least 10 pages,
- you're looking for a keepsake for a milestone event like a First Communion or wedding,
- you want to showcase your photos in a grand format. Our panoramic layout is perfect for dramatic images,
- you want a show-stopping wedding album.
Choose a photo book if:
- you need a more casual and lightweight format to present your photos,
- you have a lot of photos; the number of pages can vary between 20 and 120,
- you want to create a story, mix photos from your camera, phone, add graphics and text,
- you want to order a book occasionally, for example, as a souvenir from a trip, a family photo book, or as a gift,
- you are looking for a product at a good price.
5. Artibooks - See our great selection of photo books and albums.
Artibo® Photo Album
Artibook no.3: Create a lasting memory with our high-quality photo albums. Available in 4 sizes, with 3 paper options, and fully customizable covers. Built to last a lifetime.
Artibo® Photo Books
The ArtiBook no.1 is a versatile photo book with a soft cover. Its durable, damage-resistant paper gives it a light, artistic, and eco-friendly feel.
The ArtiBook no.2 features a hard cover for a more formal, classic look. Covered in natural canvases or soft velvets, these books are finished with exquisite, handmade craftsmanship.
6. Artibook No. 4 - The perfect blend of photo book and album
Experience the best of both worlds with ArtiBook No.4. This unique photo book combines the versatility of a photo album with the premium quality of a photo book. Enjoy the freedom of panoramic layouts and the soft, luxurious feel of our pages. Printed on a top-of-the-line Canon DreamLabo 5000 printer, ArtiBook No.4 is a truly special keepsake.
So, what's the big difference between the Premium Photo Book ArtiBook No.4 and the Photo Album ArtiBook No.3? Find out in the video below.
7. ArtiBooks - a kaleidoscope of beauty.
You now know what makes Artibo books special. Let's talk about what they all have in common.
Our photo albums and photo books are unique, minimalist, and made with the highest quality, eco-friendly materials. We're passionate about creating beautiful products using the latest technology. With easy customization and the option to order just one copy, designing with us is a breeze.
Choose your perfect product today – photo book or photo album?
Happy creating!
