Wedding Albums: A Comparison of Top Choices
Cool, so you’ve taken a MILLION (stunning) photos and officially feel like a super model. You’ve likely uploaded them (all) up on Facebook, despite being previously annoyed at past brides who have done that exact thing. Maybe you’ve created a gallery wall in your house to proudly showcase a few of your favorite shots. You think you’re all done, because what else is there beyond posting on social media and the antiquated trip to CVS Photo?
Then, your mom calls and reminds you that she cannot WAIT to see the wedding album, and you nervously laugh as you realize there is no album. Unlike the good ol’ days where videographers produced a 10 hour film for $200 and photographers included a beautifully bound and laminated collection of all pictures in their price, that just isn’t the case anymore!!! So you’re left with two options: 1) Pay the photographer’s upcharge and have an album included, or 2) Make one yourself for a fraction of the price.
I chose option 2. Which left me scouring the internet for ideas on which company to use. Appalled at the plethora of options, I decided to save you all the hassle of research and put my findings below. You are welcome.
Shutterfly
Summary:
Their “Make My Book” service allows you to upload up to 800 photos and send them off to a designer for a custom created layout and design. Within three days, you’ll have the proof back and ready for you to edit. Only pay if you end up using their services; otherwise, it’s free! Something to note is that some online reviews mention a long turnaround time and poor image quality.
Pricing:
$225 for a 10x10 flush mount photobook that comes with 20 pages. Each additional page is $8.40, making it one of the pricier options.
Best for:
The busy bride
Mixbook
Summary:
Not sure how you could possibly choose between all 5,000 photos? This company makes it so you don’t have to! With 399 pages of space, you can include every image possible. Downside is, it does come off as more of a scrapbook-type feel with its designs.
Pricing:
$80 for a premium matte layflat photobook that comes with 27 pages. Each additional page is $1.23, allowing you to add on for a fraction of what other companies charge.
Best for:
The price-conscious bride
Artifact Uprising
Summary:
Their luxurious fabric covers and easy design aspect make this company a bridal favorite. The books look high end without costing top dollar.
Pricing:
$209 for a 10x10 layflat photobook that comes with 20 pages. Each additional page is $4.50, which does add up fairly quickly.
Best for:
The gifting bride
MILK Photo Books
Summary:
Although one of the more expensive options, you certainly get what you pay for with this company. They offer leather covers and beautiful presentation boxes, making them a great keepsake or gift. They also guarantee that your photos are true to color.
Pricing:
$260 for a 13 x 11 photobook that comes with 30 pages
Best for:
The luxurious bride
My Choice:
I ended up going with Artifact Uprising, based on the online reviews and high quality cover. The total cost came to $250 due to the added pages (they really do add up quickly!), but the website was extremely easy to use and I know it’s something we’ll look through often.