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So, hear me out. I'll give you all the information here, but I've also included the downloadable file below so you can print it out and make a few folds and a cut to get your first book of your own. Choose some nice paper, any paper, print it out and absorb the easy wisdom of this book. Good luck!
And if one day you want to know more or have some questions along the way - check this link for a consultation)
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I'll be brief. Don't underestimate the time it takes to do good work.
Give yourself plenty of time to revise, print and create a cohesive design. Play with versions, print your sequence and put it on the wall to see how it feels. Play with sizes, layout and paper. Rushed work always shows.
For example, this work by Bieke Depoorter was taken in Egypt in 2011, but the handwriting was made when she returned to the country in 2017.We allow ourselves to work long hours as photographers, give yourself time for a photo book. Just maybe not as much as Bieke Depoorter.
It's perfectly fine to have a stupid idea, or a weak idea, or an idea that's too obvious and simple. To steal someone else's idea and do it your way - also fine.Not fine - not knowing exactly what you are doing and why?Asking yourself valuable questions to get a fine/correct/sure/amazing/right-on design
For example - that’s nice design, but will it fit all type of ideas? Surely not.To find what will highlight your work - do find your idea.
Not checking how the layout will look in print can lead to surprises (like images crossing binding lines, or something more ephermal - when sequencing works in digital but doesn't in print. Yikes).
Always print test copies, even if they're rough drafts, to see how the layout works in real life.
Sequencing isn't just about choosing images. It's about cutting out all the excess, while keeping the images that support your idea in the right order.Make yourself two files (or piles if you're working with printed photography): "throw away" and "keep" (you can also have an additional "maybe" file/pile.) Yes, it's hard for all photographers to cut out some images because we're in love with a result, but do yourself a favour - cut, cut, cut).
Clashing fonts, wild colours or confusing layouts can make it hard for viewers to connect with your images.
Keep design choices simple and consistent, and let the photos shine without distraction. There are many photo books that are far from "photo" and closer to design - remember the answers to "why so?" and they will help you find the right tools.
Print this guide on two sides of an A4 sheet of paper (you can make it white or play with coloured paper).Then fold it and make a cut in the middle as shown in the picture. Now you have a zine.