Far too often we take for granted that everyone reading knows all there is to know about digital scrapbooking. After some research Tracy has discovered that this is definitely not the case, so we are going to get back to basics in the tips, tricks and tutorials category. I am here today to talk about one of the first decisions that you will face in becoming a digital scrapbooker. Before you can begin the digital scrapbooking journey you must have a resource for creating digital scrapbook pages. There is a large variety of software to choose from so the task can be daunting. The best way to find the perfect software fit for you is to research. Most digital software companies offer a limited time free trial so that you can download and try the product before you have to commit to a purchase.
For starters, there are online services that provide pre-made templates from companies such as Shutterfly, Smilebooks, and Scrapblog. At sites like these an account is created, a project and/or theme is selected, then photos are added to the ready made templates. This is a fast and easy way to complete a project, but personalization options are very limited. Creating and sharing are usually free. Printing services are available for a fee.
Next, is basic digital software. Companies like Picaboo and Scrapbookflair offer their software as a free download to your computer. These programs offer more flexibility than online services but there are still limitations. Scrapbook Max and StoryBook Creator (Creative Memories) range in price from $40 and up. The versatility begins here because not only are you able to use the themed products that are included in the software, but you are also able to purchase products (digital supplies) from other sites to create your own personalized scrapbook pages. Again these are all fairly easy to use, with some limitations.
A step up from the basic digital software category is a series of photo editing software. This is where digital scrapbooking comes to life. There are many software choices available. A few of the main programs are Adobe Photoshop Elements 9, Corel Paint Shop Pro, and ACDSee. Programs like these cost between $50 and $200, but are well worth the extra cash. Each of these programs offers a free trial. There is a steeper learning curve but the creating possibilities are endless.
Lastly there is professional photo editing and design software available for the die hard scrapper as well as digital designer. In this category there are programs like Adobe Photoshop Creative Suite 5, CorelDRAW, and Adobe Illustrator Creative Suite 5. Because of the high price tag, $600 and up, with this range of software you can edit photos like the professionals and even design your own papers and embellishments.
In summary, when choosing a program think about what you want to accomplish in digital scrapbooking. Think also about the time and money you have to invest in software and in learning how to use the software, as well as the level of creative freedom you are looking for in your program. If you have any questions about the different software programs out there, we’ll do our best to answer them – please leave us a comment and we’ll get back to you!
All Trixie Scraps Designs products can be found in the following online stores:
Trixie Scraps Shop * Scrap Matters * Gotta Pixel * Scrapbook Bytes * Funky Playground
Just a quick note to let you know that a link to this post will be placed on CraftCrave today [01 Feb 12:00am GMT]. Thanks, Maria
This topic is awesome for digi scrappers just starting out. Another great FREE program out there is GIMP. I scrap exclusively on that program. I’ve also used it for designing. It’s a great program with lots of similarity to PS but the only drawback is there isn’t much out there for tips/tutorials geared towards digi scrapping.
I use ULead’s PhotoImpact X3, but it was really helpful to see that, since Corel bought out ULead, which program is used by designers. Thanks for that reintroduction into the digi world, Tracy! It was very helpful!