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Design
Must I be connected to the internet to design my Xbook album?
No. Xbook photobook will operate independently on your PC once you have downloaded it from our website. The internet connection is required only for several stages, to initially download the software, to receive an update, to send the order file through or to view our price list.
What is the recommended photo quality to use within the various layouts?
The Xbook photobook software will evaluate each photo that you insert into the album and warn you if the resolution is too low for the size that you are seeking to use. It will do so by inserting a small yellow triangle with an exclamation mark at the bottom right hand corner of that photo. We recommend that you aim for a minimum of 300dpi.
What is the recommended photo quality to use for a background image?
When used as a background images are made transparent, which means, they are given that washed out look to create that great looking contrast effect. This means that the resolution does not have to be as high as full colour image. We recommend that when using a background on a portrait album you should use at least a 3 Megapixel image and across a double page spread at this size a 6 Megapixel image. The software editor will assist you in the specific requirements on a case by case basis.
What is the recommended photo quality to use for a cover image?
When inserting your own images for the cover page you have several options. If you choose to have one of your photos as a standalone image on the cover the quality must be superb. For a portrait album cover the recommended size is at least a 6 Megapixel image. When inserting your photo into one of the pre-designed covers a similar quality to that of any photo inside the album is required. In all instances the software will warn you if the quality is too low.
How do I choose layouts, backgrounds and photos?
The Xbook photobook software works on the very basic concept of ‘drag and drop’. Simply stand the cursor on the desired element on the screen and drag it onto the designated page of your Xbook album. To change a layout, background or photo simply ‘drag’ your latest choice and ‘drop’ on top of the existing one. The software elements, such as the backgrounds and layouts are presented on the right side of the screen, while your computer is presented on the left side of the screen, this is for you to access your photos and incorporate them into the album.
How do I edit photos?
Simply double click on the photo once it has been dragged onto the page in order to enter the editor screen.
What are the Xbook photobook templates?
The Xbook photobook templates are professionally designed templates to allow you to produce an extraordinary photobook. The templates refer to the page layouts, the background options and also to the cover design options. Each category has a drop down menu that allows you to easily navigate between the various templates on offer and choose the ones that suit you. They are there to simplify the process of designing your digital album, while offering you the flexibility and look of a professional product.
My photos look a little grainy in the editor. What do I do?
The various graphic elements within the editor are not displayed at their highest resolution, to allow for a smoother and quicker use of the software. The final photobook album will be printed using the highest quality images of the software elements. Please notice the software warning notice for low resolution of your own images, these are not controlled by us and can not be improved - what you see on the ‘preview’ screen is what you get.
How do I insert text?
When selecting your page layout, notice there are pre-selected locations for images as well as text, make sure to choose a layout that suits your needs. When a text box is included in the page layout (in most cases it is) it is clearly marked “double click to edit text”. By double clicking that box you may edit the text as you wish, choose from a range of famous quotes offered or insert your own text. Please spell check your text as we can’t do it for you !
What fonts do I use for my text?
The Xbook photobook software offers a wide range of English fonts and also supports all other fonts installed on your PC through Windows. When choosing your fonts make sure to choose a colour that contrasts the background and a size that can be easily read.
What if I don’t insert any text in a text box?
No need to worry, the text box will simply disappear and not impact the look of the page. Whenever in doubt and you wish to preview your album, press the ‘preview’ button on the top menu bar.
How can I crop a photo?
Once you have inserted the desired photo into the page layout, double click on it to reach the edit screen. When in edit mode simply stand on any of the outlined corners of the image and drag them around to crop the image as you like; to implement this press the ‘apply’ button.
Can I scan elements into the Xbook software?
Yes, of course you may. Simply choose the best possible resolution on your scanner and save the file as a .jpeg in order to insert as any other image into your album.
Can I change the album style or the page numbers?
The album style is selected at the beginning of the editing process. you can style , insert, remove and edit any element while you are working on your album.
By default the photo albums have 40 pages. You can add extra pages at the end of your work and you can remove pages from the end, all in accordance to the style of photobook you are making.
Can Xbook software create a photobook for me?
Xbook photobook software has a ‘Quick Photobook Assistant’ option, which is offered automatically at the beginning of every new album design. Simply follow a few simple prompts and you’ll have a photobook designed in no time. After the ‘Quick Photobook Assistant’ has completed its job you are still capable of making manual changes.
Can I work on several albums at the same time?
Yes, Xbook photobook software creates a file under “My Xbook" folder on your PC for every album you create and save. You can save at any stage and return to it whenever you are ready, while working on another album in the meantime, as they are separate files.
I have more questions regarding design, where do I turn to?
For further information regarding designing your Xbook photobook please refer to the ‘help’ menu in the software. If you require additional information or assistance please contact us via support@xbook.com.au. Please note the design tips section on our website, it’s there to assist you.
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