We’re All Publishers
People are ‘content creators’ these days; not just in the social media sense either. They’re publishers too - in the traditional sense of writing and publishing their own stories. Websites with easy drag-and-drop interfaces ensure the process is simple, and print-on-demand (POD) definitely offers affordability. It’s loads of work, but the printed results are impressive.
When not designing posters in the recent lockdown of 2020, I jumped into self-publishing. Digital photo libraries are very convenient; but sometimes I just prefer to hold a solid book - somehow it makes the experience meaningful and memorable. I’ve published a few books recently that turned out well: a portfolio of design work over my years in the communication and design industry, and a couple of vacation books. I used online resource www.photobookcanada.com. (Yes, you’re on a Canadian site, but the actual production of their photobooks are completed and shipped overseas.) With loads of options for page size and format, paper finish, binding, and extras - like engraving and slipcases - the task may seem daunting; but this site keeps it simple with drag-and-drop options and quick video support to guide users. I opted for the ‘blank page’ option and created my own page grids and title artwork, although you can use their preset templates.
The results? Image and colour reproduction are excellent. Paper finish feels great and images really pop. Binding is excellent and my photobooks felt solid, like a book from any bookstore. Want more? The site offers many solutions from stationery to totes, to seasonal greeting cards. Overseas shipping is very prompt and their production rates are good; qualify for a ‘pro code’ and save more.
My approach? I determined the visual direction of my books by theme, chronology, or itinerary; for vacation books, basically a day-by-day format, or an appropriate theme like ‘Daytripping’. I designed maps, cover and title pages, and graphics to enhance the visual narrative; lots of plaid for a trip to the UK! Managing image files is a lot of work; but it’s definitely worth the back-end effort to keep things ordered - the finished results will definitely keep you coming back to relive meaningful memories.
