You’ve decided to create an album for your graduate, have a deadline and are ready to get started. In this phase, you will be gathering everything that’s important to your graduate. Then digitizing anything that’s in paper or 3-dimensional form. You will develop a workable plan to complete your project in time. And finally, design your project.
Step One: Create a Timeline
A timeline can be a useful tool to complete a goal. With a breakdown of each phase, you can stay on task. The best way to approach this is to look at your deadline and work backwards.
- Album publishing: 2 weeks
- Album creation: 4-8 weeks. Depends upon the number of photos.
- Digitizing: 2-3 weeks. Also depends upon number of photos.
- Gathering: 1-2 weeks. This depends upon the organization of your collection and the number of photos you have.
- Set daily goals.
- If all you have is 15 minutes, you can use it to start going through pictures or albums. Use a journal, post-its, or a log to keep track of where to start next time you have time. You’re already farther along than you were 15 minutes ago!
Now start from the beginning and mark your timeline on your calendar.
Step Two: Gather
- Grab their photos, artwork and memorabilia and put everything into one central location. A large bin or box that can hold letter or legal size handing file folder works well for keeping photos, documents and memorabilia organized.
- Consider sub-themes. School years, holidays, birthdays, sports, activities, and vacations are typical sub-themes.
- Mementos. Set aside artwork or awards to be considered for your project. Anything three-dimensional can be photographed and incorporated into your book.
Step Three: Digitize
Digitize what’s in paper form. Scanning can be time intensive, so if you’re short on time, check for local scanning services or contact us if you are in the Denver area.
Photography is another option. Use the best camera you have making sure you have good lighting and a simple background. Once everything is in digital format, you can start designing your senior project.
Step Four: Album Design
For album design ideas, check out our blog post “9 Easy Steps to Designing A Themed Album”
Making an album for your graduate should be fun! If you are feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to help. Email me today and I’m happy to schedule a free 30 minute consultation.