Apple Photos App Book Guide: Turn Your Library into a Photo Book
Got a bunch of memories sitting in Apple Photos and wondering how to turn them into a real book? You’re not alone. Most iPhone users end up scrolling forever, but with a few simple steps you can pull together a polished photo book without hiring a designer. This guide walks you through selection, layout, and printing so you can have a coffee‑table‑ready album in days.
Select and Organize Your Best Shots
Start by creating a dedicated album for the project. Open Apple Photos, tap the “+” button, and name it something clear like “2024 Vacation Book.” Drag every picture you think might belong in the book into that album. Once everything is in one place, use the built‑in “Favorites” star to mark the top 20‑30 images you really love. This two‑step filter saves time later when you’re arranging pages.
Next, sort the favorites chronologically or by theme—whichever tells your story best. Apple Photos lets you drag photos into any order, so line up sunrise shots first, then group family portraits together. A logical flow keeps the book feeling like a story rather than a random slideshow.
Design, Order, and Print Your Book
Apple’s native “Print” option now includes a photo‑book template. Tap the share icon, choose “Print” and then select “Photo Book” from the list of services. The app will automatically suggest a layout, but you can tap each spread to swap images, change orientation, or add a caption. Keep text short—just a line or two per page—to let the photos shine.
When you’re happy with the layout, pick a size (8×8" or 10×10" are popular) and a paper finish. Matte paper reduces glare on bright outdoor shots, while glossy brings out color in sunsets. Preview the whole book before you hit “Order.” Apple will show you a price breakdown; most standard books stay under $30, especially if you opt for a softcover.
If you want a faster turnaround, choose the “Express” shipping option. Delivery usually arrives in 5‑7 business days, and the book arrives in a sturdy box that protects the cover. You can also use the same workflow to create matching calendars or greeting cards—just switch the template at the print step.
Pro tip: Before you finalize, export a PDF of the book to double‑check margins and image quality on a computer screen. Look for any blurry pictures; replace them with higher‑resolution files from iCloud if needed. A quick quality check now prevents disappointment later.
That’s it—your Apple Photos app book is ready to share with friends and family. The process takes less than an hour, costs less than a dinner out, and gives you a lasting memory you can flip through anytime. Next time you swipe through your camera roll, think about which moments deserve a physical page. Happy creating!