Categories: Deals & SavingsShopping & Retail

The best DIY photo books – and where to get the best deal!

Clark Howard Staff | May 2nd, 2018

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Still scrambling for the perfect gift idea?

Why not consider a photo book? Photo books combine memories and a gift into one thoughtful package!

These meaningful pieces are the modern iteration of photo albums. But, instead of placing the picture carefully on a sticky piece of cardstock behind some glossy plastic that might end up ruining the picture, photo books are high quality, bound books that look just like real books, and you can select a variety of designs and colors to match the recipient’s taste – or yours!

Consumer Reports tested four sources for photo books — Blurb, Shutterfly, Snapfish, and Walmart, and prices ranged from $26.07 – $72.76. But, there are tons of other sites that offer photo book production!

In addition to the four photo book sources Consumer Reports tested, here are some tips for pulling together a great photo book.

Tips for creating a great photo book

Allow yourself time: Give yourself plenty of time to find the right pictures.
Organize your pictures: You can do this chronologically, by geographic location, or by family members.
Be choosy: Make sure to use pictures that aren’t blurry and flatter the people in them.
Include variety: Be sure to include horizontals, verticals and portraits, as well as panoramas. There are also types of photos you’ll want to incorporate such as formals, candids, action shots, group portraits, and selfies; landscapes and still lifes.

How to get the best deal

There are many sites offering very low-cost photo books – just be sure to check the reviews to ensure you’re getting a high quality product.

Groupon: As low as $5! Get this deal.
Artisan State: $5 for first album – Get this deal.
Living Social: $9.99 – Get this deal.

In time for Christmas?

Most photobooks can take up to 7 days to print, and another 7-10 days to ship. Since we are so close to Christmas, here are several sources that offer same day printing!