How to make a scrapbook PDF from page images
To make a scrapbook PDF, prepare page images in reading order, combine them in a tool with PDF support and check the saved file for missing pages, readable details and file size.
Keep the page images and editable project alongside the PDF. You can change a page there and make a new PDF without rebuilding the whole book.
Use an image or document tool with PDF export. Check its options before starting, including whether it can combine the page images in the order you need.
Make a digital scrapbook
Add your photos and keepsakes in tbf scrapbook, then arrange them on the pages.
Put the pages in order
Give the page images numbered names with the same number of digits. Include the front cover and any insert views at their intended point in the book.
Choose single pages when the PDF will be read on a phone. Combine spreads only when the reader has enough screen space for both pages.
Set the page size
A reading copy and a file for a print provider can require different settings. For printing, obtain the provider's dimensions, bleed and file requirements first.
- Use the same orientation within each section.
- Avoid stretching a page to fill a different shape.
- Check the tool has not automatically rearranged the files.
- Keep a larger source version before reducing file size.
Open and check the saved PDF
Open the PDF in a viewer separate from the creation screen. Count pages and check at least one handwriting close-up, a dark photo and the last page.
If reducing the file makes text or faces blocky, return to the larger copy. Removing an unnecessary full-resolution background may help more than compressing every page.
Steps
Order the image files
Number the cover and inside pages in the intended sequence. Put open-pocket images immediately after their parent pages.
Combine the page images
Use a tool that explicitly creates PDFs from your chosen image files. Set page shape and orientation before saving.
Test the reading copy
Open the resulting PDF, move through every page and inspect small writing at a useful zoom level.
Keep the editable files
Store the editable project and page images alongside the PDF. Add a date or version number so later changes do not confuse the reading copies.
Questions
Is a PDF a good master copy of a scrapbook?
It is a useful reading copy. Also keep the editable project and separate page images so you can change layouts or recreate the PDF later.
Should my PDF show single pages or spreads?
Single pages are easier to read on small screens. Spreads suit a wide display when the relationship across the centre matters.
Can a scrapbook PDF be sent to a printer?
Only after checking that printer's page size, bleed, colour and file requirements. A PDF made for screen reading may need to be rebuilt for their specification.