Layout Gallery Etiquette

One of the greatest things about the advent of scrapbook websites is the ability to view one another's work. At website galleries, scrapbookers can see the work of other scrapbookers and be inspired. Scrapbookers can also participate by posting their layouts and receiving feedback. There are some things to consider and common courtesies to follow when posting to an online gallery. Here are some things to consider.

Post Comments. When leaving a comment on any layout try to say something specifically about the layout such as the design, colors, fonts, journaling, photography, etc. If you are unsure what to say, then leave a general comment such as "good job" or "inspiring." Do not post criticism on a layout without permission. If someone posts to your layout and you feel a need to respond, send them a personal message (PM) to give your feedback. It is courteous to leave a comment on someone else's layout in return for a comment on your layout. Obviously, you don't have to do this all the time, but watch for a layout a commenter has done that you do enjoy and make a positive comment.

Share Your Work. Galleries are created so scrapbookers can share their work. If you visit a gallery and leave comments, your contribution is appreciated. Fellow scrapbookers, though, would love to see your pages as well. Consider adding your pages to the gallery. If you have a scanner or digital camera, you can post your layouts on a website gallery.

Keep to an Appropriate File Size. When sizing your images for the gallery, notice what size you use to save your files. Each website has maximum file sizes so check before posting. These are often measured in a file size such as 200 KB or in a pixel size such as 600 pixels wide. Be considerate and keep your file sizes in the appropriate range. Most sites will also have a limit on the number of pages you can upload in one day. Keep within that range as well.

When posting to a gallery, the upload feature will include an area for adding a message. Here are some things to consider putting in that message area.

Give Credit to Other Scrapbookers. Be courteous and give credit when another layout or a sketch has inspired your layout. In these instances give credit to the original source. The credit can be as simple as "Inspired by a layout in Simple Scrapbooks by Cathy Zielske."

Give Credit to Manufacturers. If possible, include a list of supplies and manufacturers. Giving credit to manufacturers helps them to sell their products. It also gives those observing your layout knowledge about the products used.

Add Links. Links provide more information about where to get an item used on your layout. At a general scrapbook store these links are welcome. If the gallery is associated with a store consider which links to add and limit it to links that promote the store. If you do mention the source of your item, do not provide a link to another store.

Add Journaling to the Message. If you want to share your journaling, copy it into the message area. This provides much easier reading than trying to read what is on the layout itself.

Lastly, the best way to enjoy a gallery is to get involved. Galleries often become special communities of people who get to know one another through their layouts. So jump in and join a scrapbook gallery community.