One of the most effective ways you can add structure to your scrapbook layouts is by using shapes.
Shapes can be used to reflect an element in your photo by repeating it. For example if you’re scrapbooking a photo about your toddler playing with a large colored ball, then using circular shapes for your matt and other embellishments will really reinforce the image in the photo.
You can also use shapes to set a mood or send a subtle message in your layout.
Scrapbook Kit is Golden Dawn from Step by Step Digital Scrapbook
And the layout is from a Step by Step Digital Scrapbook tutorial.
In The Golden Girl layout above I used the upward pointing shape to reflect the direction of my niece’s life. She was nearing the end of High School and was (and still is) full of ambition for the future. And of course the circle shapes always convey a sense of harmony and continuity.
You can find inspiration for shapes to use in your scrapbook layouts all around you.
If you’re a paper scrapbooker you can use bowls and plates from your kitchen to create your different sized circles. And there are plenty of templates available for you to draw out star or cloud shapes. Or maybe try drawing around a large flower and mix some paper flower shapes amongst your ‘real’ flowers.
If you’re a digital scrapbooker then life is even easier.
In Photoshop Elements the Cookie Cutter Tool offers you a smorgasbord of shapes to cut out of your background papers and use on your scrapbook layouts. That’s what I have done in The Golden Girl layout. And all other good photo editing software programs will have an equivalent function that will do the same thing.
Repeating a shape form can be really effective in linking all the elements of your layout design together and providing a sense of cohesiveness. Our eyes take in so many more subtle messages than we realize and a clever use of shape forms on your scrapbook layouts can communicate far more than you may think.
Besides, shapes can be fun.
Try using star shapes for a layout of your child’s school play. Or heart shapes to reinforce your love for the special person you’re doing your next scrapbook layout about.
How do you use shapes in your scrapbook layouts?
Why not share some of your ideas in the comments below. And you’re welcome to leave a link to one of your layouts that demonstrate your use of shapes.
Other Related Articles:
Scrapbook Idea: Scrapbook Your Garden
Try Some Repetition in your Scrapbook Layouts
Top 10 Scrapbooking Articles of All Time