Why making a summer photo book has become my annual tradition
By Photobox on 17 July 2025
Mélodie, our Brand Creative Manager, shares how creating a photo book of her family’s summer has become a cherished routine.
For many, creating and collecting photo books is a cherished activity. Our Brand Creative Manager Mélodie made a photo book to recap her summer a few years ago, and has carried on the tradition every year since. Discover why this fun activity became an annual ritual that means so much to her.
When did you first start making a summer photo book?
“I started as soon as I had my daughter – basically the moment I became a mum. All of a sudden, we were taking so many pictures, and although I was already making a yearbook, I felt summer deserved its very own spotlight. It’s the time of year we reconnect with family and friends we don’t get to see often, especially since we live abroad. Summer is packed with laughter, reunions, beach days, and impromptu adventures – those big and small moments that deserve to be captured and cherished.”
What do you include in your book each year?
“Every summer book includes photos from July through to early September. It does overlap slightly with our holiday photo book, but I always name it simply “Summer [Year]” – that’s become a little tradition in itself. I love adding playful illustrations from the editor’s collection to give each book a bit of extra flair and personality. As for the cover, I always try to choose a photo that captures the spirit of our summer. Believe me, it’s the hardest part – finding that one perfect shot can be surprisingly tricky.”
Do you do any prep work to save you time, when it comes to making your book?
“Absolutely. Before I even open the editor, I start by creating a dedicated Google Photos album for the summer. Throughout the season, I add pictures I know I’ll want to include. It makes the creation process so much smoother (and way less overwhelming) when you’re ready to get started.”
What do you think is important to include in a summer photo book?
“Captions. I didn’t include them in my first book and I really regret it. At the time, I thought, of course I’ll remember this moment. But flash forward a few years, and I’ve forgotten the name of that charming little village or who that friendly person was who joined us for a BBQ. Adding a few words helps bring the memories flooding back – and gives future-you (or your kids) context and stories behind the smiles.”
Is there a style of photo book that you’ve used many times?
“I’ve landed on a favourite after a bit of trial and error. My first book was a small landscape format – I was already making a large yearbook and didn’t want to go overboard. But the small size didn’t do our memories justice. Now I always go for a medium landscape with the same layout each year. There’s something I love about the consistency – it gives a feeling of continuity, like chapters in an ongoing story.”
Do you always include holiday photos?
“Yes, definitely. Holidays are such a big part of summer. But I’m a huge fan of including people in photos – more so than landscapes. Maybe it’s because I mostly use my phone for pictures, and I never feel it truly captures the magic of a stunning view. But the smiles, the silly faces, the group shots at dinner – those are the ones I treasure the most.”
Feeling inspired by Mélodie’s summer tradition of creating a lasting photo book? Why not start your own tradition this year. Gather your photos together and create a photo book to treasure for years to come. Find out more about our types of photo books here.
