Photography Tip #77: Make a Back-to-School Photo Calendar!

Greetings Fellow Photographers!

It's hard to believe, but it's almost time to send the kids back to school! While your kids may not be excited about early mornings and home work, the beginning of the school year is always a great time for them to catch up with friends and swap summer stories. It is also the perfect time to get your family organized with a Back-to-School photo calendar! Follow these simple steps and you'll have your calendar ready before the first bell rings…

2. Select a Start Date and Theme.

Now it's time to set up your calendar. First, select the month you would like displayed on the first page of your calendar using the "Starting Month" drop-down box. Since this is a back-to-school calendar, August is probably a great month to start with, though you can choose whatever month works best for you. Next, select the theme you want from the "Themes" tab along the bottom. There are dozens of themes available; browse what is there and select the one you like best. Once it is selected, click "Next Step."

3. Add Your Photos.

To add photos to your calendar, drag a photo onto each month. You can add additional photos to each month later if you'd like. I recommend clicking the "Save" button to make sure this work is saved; click it frequently from now on to ensure no work is lost. Once the pictures are added, click "Preview."

4A. Customize Your Calendar.

On the "Preview" page, click any month to view that particular page in your calendar. To make any changes, click "Customize."

4B. Click On The Photo In Your Calendar to Edit It.
Use the tabs along to bottom to add or replace photos by dragging them onto the page. Click on the photo in your calendar to edit it. You can also add clipart, add borders to photos, change the page background, and add text to each page.

4C. When You're Finished Press "Preview".
Also, click the "Bottom" view to customize each day of the month, and click on any particular day to customize it. You can add custom holidays like birthdays, as well as important school activities like tests, sports games, and anything else you think is helpful. You can also drag photos from the bottom onto a particular day (like a child's birthday) to further enhance any day of the year. When you are finished customizing your calendar, press "Preview."

5. Review and Order!

Review each page carefully (don't forget to check your spelling!). When you are ready to order, press "Add To Cart" and proceed to check out. That's it!