Inspired by Ashley from Under the Sycamore, I recently decided that I wanted to start creating Family Yearbooks. There was just one problem...I was about three years behind in tackling this project. So I decided that for Christmas (this past year), I would gift my family with three years worth of family yearbooks. Putting together this particular Christmas gift was definitely a labor of love, but I am so glad that I did it!
Creating Family Yearbooks Using Shutterfly
Shutterfly has so many options for creating the perfect photo album, and I love the various specials, coupon codes, etc. that they offer!
Today, I want to give you a glimpse in to how our yearbooks turned out!
Quick Note: Two things were key in this project turning out the way I wanted!
First of all, it helped that all of my photos were already chronologically organized on my computer. If you are looking to dive in to a project like this, I would definitely make sure your photos are somewhat organized before you get started.
After years of not completely loving the way my photo files were organized, I came across this method, and my brain loves it!
Second, do you remember how I told you that I write letters to my kids? These letters served as my journaling for this project! My thoughts, memories, etc. were already recorded, and I was able to plug in the words with the corresponding pictures.
Are you ready for a glimpse in to the yearbooks I have made so far?
*This nine-square layout (3 x 3) is PERFECT for Instagram photos!*
**This 3 x 3 layout was PERFECT for plugging in my favorite Instagram photos!
I took Ashley's advise and ordered two of each year: one for my family to enjoy and one to put back for safe keeping.
This project will look different for everyone! I love all of the pre-made templates, layouts, etc. that Shutterfly offers, but I also really like how I was able to customize my pages as well!
This year, I am planning to start working on our next yearbook late summer/early fall - ensuring that it is under the tree and ready to go by Christmas!
P.S. Let me brag on Shutterfly again for just a moment...When I made mistakes in my books (which definitely happened, because well, that's life...), they immediately allowed me to correct the errors, and they shipped out replacement copies FOR FREE! I was really impressed by this!
Many of you have asked what kind of camera I use. I take ALOT of photos on my phone - which is a G3, but my camera is Nikon D3300. While I love to take pictures, I do not at all consider myself a professional - I let my Nikon do all of the work for me!
Five Methods for Documenting Family Life
Five Methods for Documenting Family Life