Frequently Asked Questions2019-11-28T03:45:45+08:00

Frequently Asked Questions

Filter the display of F.A.Q.’s by clicking on the category of interest immediately below:

I did not (or don’t want to) use your software. Can you make a book from a PDF file?2019-07-29T00:00:00+08:00

We can take your PDF and produce a beautiful hardcover book for you, provided your file meets certain requirements. Importantly, it must have the same dimensions as any of our book sizes. Please contact us to discuss the specifics as they relate to your project.

Regrettably, we must charge a small setup fee for our time to import your JPEG files into Cahoots software, or to setup your PDF file to process it in our workflow. If your files are compliant with our recommended specifications, your setup fee will be in the order of $20 for a 40 page book.

How many photos does a book accommodate?2019-07-29T00:00:00+08:00

For a 40 page 30cm square Large Luxurious book, we would recommend between 80 and 120 photos. If you keep the number of pages fixed, the more photos you insert, the smaller the average size of the photos. You can of course have less than 40 pages, or add additional pages. Your choices may be guided by the quality of the photos themselves, and the importance of the book.

For books of smaller dimensions, your page real estate is less, so your photos will obviously be smaller, all other factors being equal. Similarly, if you choose an A3 Large Landscape, you can have the same number of photos but have them larger, or you may wish to make use of the additional space to accommodate more photos.

I have some hardcopy photos and memorabilia. How do I include them in my photo book?2019-07-29T00:00:00+08:00

For photos and articles etc. that need to be in sharp focus, you will need to arrange for these to be scanned.

If you have access to a scanner (?via a friend, or work, or local library), we recommend that you configure the scanner for 600dpi (dots per inch). Many scanners are set up with a default of 300dpi which is a good default for scanning documents that don’t need scaling up. However, to give maximum flexibility for cropping and/or enlargement of your chosen images when you layout your photo book, a minimum 600 dpi is recommended for standard sized photos. Smaller photos may need a higher setting while large photos can be scanned with a lower dpi setting.

For (typically large) children’s artwork you may have some success in photographing such images. You should try to ensure that the lighting is as even and diffused as possible. It is worth trying to photograph these outside in the shade or on an overcast day, avoiding the uneven lighting of a flash. Pay particular attention to achieving a sharp focus, and avoid shallow depth or field, otherwise part of the drawing may be blurry.

If that all sounds too difficult, Cahoots offers scanning services to assist in the process of creating a photo book. See our scanning page for details.

What format is required for the audio?2019-07-29T00:00:00+08:00

Due to the technical limitations of the app, the audio files must be .mp3

In case you have a different format, it is easily converted to .mp3 with appropriate utilities.

I’ve discovered an error. Can I cancel my order?2019-07-29T00:00:00+08:00

As long as we have not printed your book, we can cancel your order, after which you can submit your updated file. Please contact us promptly and quote the order number if you wish to cancel a specific order.

I’m concerned about my images. Can I order a proof copy?2019-07-29T00:00:00+08:00

Depending upon your level of concern, we can print a couple of pages for review, prior to printing the entire book file.

Or alternatively, it may be possible for you to visit our printing service provider where pages can be previewed on calibrated monitors.

Lastly, we can provide a complete set of loose pages for review prior to binding. In this case, if there is a need to reprint the book pages, there will be a charge for the initial set of now discarded proof prints.

Why do you charge a rush job surcharge?2019-07-29T00:00:00+08:00

We try to keep the Rush Job Fee as low as possible, while keeping necessary efficiencies in our production. Therefore the Rush Job Fee covers additional expenses such as call-off labour, overtime, printer contractor setup fees for late books, and additional transport of book components in order to meet shortened delivery timeframes.

Are there any limitations for layflat books?2022-08-10T14:56:11+08:00

Layflat books now have a maximum of 140 pages across all formats. (Beyond this amount, they become too thick for the binding equipment to handle.)

Please also note that the more pages, the less they are able to lay absolutely flat. A 140 page layflat book will exhibit slight curvature in the binding zone. However they still lie reasonably flat (without needing to hold the pages open) and are far superior to standard paper books of the same page count.

What happened to my VIP points?2023-02-22T14:12:51+08:00

Since early 2022 we have discontinued the VIP points loyalty program. If you believe you still have accumulated points to use, please get in touch. Note however that any points will have expired 12 months after the date they were earned.

We are however pleased to advise that we keep tabs on customer order frequency and proactively offer personal discount codes to those customers with a history of regular orders. If you think you have been overlooked, please reach out to us.

How do I order a layflat photo book?2023-02-22T14:20:57+08:00

To order your layflat photo book, choose the appropriate layflat option or file template when you start your project.  It is important to select the “LAYFLAT” version of the relevant format, as the page size in a layflat book is different from a standard book. Changing between layflat and non-layflat formats is problematic due to page size differences, so it is important to select the correct product range when starting your project. To determine the cost difference between a standard book and a layflat equivalent, refer to the “Let Me Do It” pricing tables, or use our book cost calculator.

How do I add audio to a photo book?2023-02-22T14:24:45+08:00

You should collect your set of image/audio pairs and submit them to us. (Contact us for the best way to do this). Your image and audio files should be named the same – so it is clear they are paired with each other. We will also need to provide you a QR code that will need to be printed in, or attached to, your photo book.

How do I redeem my VIP points?2023-02-22T14:27:39+08:00

We have discontinued our VIP points system. Points were only valid for a maximum of 18 months. Please contact us if you believe you have a points balance still valid for us.

If you are logged in when at the checkout screen, you will be offered the opportunity to use your points balance to reduce your order price. (If you are not logged in, look for the login link in the notice concerning returning customers.)

In the event you have difficulties with the automated process of earning and using VIP points, simply submit your book and select “Bank Transfer” as the payment method. Send us an email afterwards requesting a credit for your VIP points balance. We will then adjust the price of your order and send you an invoice by email, that you can pay online.

What’s the conversion rate for my VIP points?2023-02-22T14:28:45+08:00

We have discontinued our VIP points system. Points were only valid for a maximum of 18 months. Please contact us if you believe you have a points balance still valid for us.

VIP points can be redeemed at the rate of 100 points for each $1 of credit towards your future photobook, up to a maximum of 50% of your order value. From time to time, we may offer enhanced conversion rates. Make sure you are subscribed to our newsletter to be notified of such opportunities.

How can I find out how many VIP points I have?2023-02-22T14:29:24+08:00

We have discontinued our VIP points system. Points were only valid for a maximum of 18 months. Please contact us if you believe you have a points balance still valid for use.

You can contact us to check your VIP account points balance. As long as you are logged in when you submit your book order, you will see how many points you have available by referring to the notice displayed on the checkout pages. (If tyou are not logged in, you will see a notice to this effect, and a link to click which will display the login panel.)

Why are you changing your desktop software platform yet again in 2022?2024-02-26T15:04:17+08:00

The decision to cease support for Easy Designer was not taken lightly. We realise it is one of the best Windows based photo book design applications available. However, the macOs version has lagged well behind the Windows version. Additionally, the ongoing payment of the associated license fees by Cahoots was viewed as not sustainable in the longer term.

We note however, the rise of generic photo book design tools that are not tied to any particular photo book production house. Given the history of changed platforms and orphaned legacy photo book projects, we have taken the brave move to adopt You Design Photo Book as one of our new recommended desktop tools. Although every customer will need to purchase their own YouDesign Photo Book software license, Cahoots will subsidise the cost by offering two voucher codes for subsequent use. (T&C’s apply – contact us for clarifications or queries )

IMPORTANTLY, unlike previous cahoots desktop software tools (Easy Designer, Easy Editor, Cahoots Pizazz), YouDesign Photo Book has no restrictions on output. You can freely produce print resolution PDFs or JPG files, or create lower resolution versions for sharing. You are in full control of your project and can have your book produced however and wherever you want. Naturally at Cahoots, we are ready to assist in producing your physical book!

Can I place content across the binding seam in a layflat photo book?2024-02-26T15:06:21+08:00

When displaying images across the binding, there are some important watchpoints to be aware of. As our hinged layflat books are traditionally bound, each left and right page is a separate piece of paper. Due to slight variations in printing registration front and back, and also small tolerances in trimming the pages, there can be a mm or two variation in the vertical or horizontal positioning of each left and right page. Therefore it is strongly advised not to put important and/or high contrast/linear elements in the centre of the spread. Similarly, it is best not to place text across the binding, unless you are certain that the seam will fall between words. As a general rule it is best to keep the focus of the image/spread to the left or right of the hinge area.

Also note that A3 books have slightly different printing process. As a result we strongly recommend no backgrounds, or only pale backgrounds for A3 layflat books.

Why should I consider choosing a layflat photo book?2024-02-26T15:09:41+08:00

Our layflat paper is 216gsm coated stock with a satin finish. The paper has a plastic “hinge” that alows the paper to freely lie flat. This not only provides great visibility to details that are otherwise lost in the gutter of the book, but there is no wrestling with the pages to keep them fully open. Because of this, a thicker stock is able to be used, adding to the quality feel of the book. The layflat uprade is worth considering for those special books.

Since layflat photo books do not lose content in the gutter, they can really make an impact when an image is displayed across the binding seam. (IMPORTANT: Some limitations apply!) We have some great examples in the Subiaco office for you to view, if you are able to drop by (make a no obligation appointment). If your book will be 140 pages or less, choosing a layflat book will allow enjoyment of 100% of every beautiful page, without wrestling with your book to keep the pages open. Layflat books are now available across all our popular formats: 21cm Small Fun, A4 Classic Landscape, 30cm Large Luxurious and our A3 Large Landscape. Learn more about our books

How long does it take for my book to be produced?2024-02-26T15:15:23+08:00

Our current local production process works on a weekly cycle, beginning first thing on a Monday morning, and books typically available from the following Friday or early the following week. However, “stuff happens” such as quality control issues, delays from our printing service provider etc. We therefore advise to allow two Monday to Friday production cycles in order for your book to be completed, so that any QC or scheduling issues can be accommodated.

You will receive an email notification when the book is available for collection (if you elected to do that), or has been deposited with Australia Post. If collecting your book from our Subiaco office, you will need to make an appointment to do so (otherwise we may not be in attendance when you stop by).

If you require your book to have a short turn-around, we can usually arrange to have the book completed in a single production cycle. However, if your book is especially thick or requires special finishing, a one week turnaround may not be possible. Depending upon the exact circumstances of your order, a Rush Job Fee may be applicable. Please contact us to discuss if it is feasible for us to meet your deadline.

The above timeframes are for local book production. If ordering EVERYDAY photo books, these are produced by our global fulfilment partner in the Netherlands. These take 3-4 weeks to arrive to your shipping address by Australia Post. (Note: P.O. Boxes are not supported for EVERYDAY book delivery.)

If you engage Cahoots to design your book (Do It For Me), the time taken to finalise the book layout is normally between 3 and 5 business days, depending upon our workload. Thus, if opt for our Do It For Me service, you should ideally allow 1 week for book design in addition to the production times outlined above.

How much is a rush job surcharge and when does it apply?2024-02-26T15:20:20+08:00

A rush job surcharge of $60 will apply if a “Let Me Do It” book is submitted on a Monday, or Tuesday for completion the same week, or if your book is required on a Thursday afternoon for pickup. A surcharge will also apply when there is less than 3 Cahoots business days available for the designing and approval of a “Do It For Me” book. (This generally means we should receive material before Wednesday, for completion of the physical book by the Friday of the following week.) There may be other scenarios where a Rush Job Fee applies. Please contact us to discuss your desired timeframe and to ascertain any applicable “Rush Job” fee.

I need my book urgently. Can I request an expedited service?2024-02-26T15:21:15+08:00

While we normally advise allowing 2 weekly production cycles for completion (see above), upon request we can provide a rush job service, subject to certain limitations. Typically, average sized books submitted by 9am on a Monday can be completed in a single weekly production run, and be ready for collection on the following Friday, if pre-arranged. Please do contact us to confirm we can meet your specific deadline, and to ascertain if a rush job fee will apply.

I have a book file I am still working on (or keeping), in your original software. Can I still get it printed?2024-02-26T15:24:48+08:00

Unfortunately, No.

As a general rule, you should aim to complete your photo book project within a couple of months. We do not advise working on a single project for years, as technology and platforms and costs are continually changing (often beyond our control). If you have a truly long-term project, we strongly recommend breaking it down into separate volumes that can be printed as completed.

Our Cahoots Easy Editor for Windows and Cahoots Pizazz for macOS and Easy Designer for Windows and macOS were all licensed from third parties and once the agreements are terminated, we are no longer able to process files from those applications. By extension, this means that all your .epb and .dtp/.dtpx files will no longer be of any practical use.  However, in some cases you may possibly be able to cut and paste between old and new applications to most easily recreate your book with updated tools.

Since January 2017, we no longer have the licensing or infrastructure in place to process submitted book files originating from Easy Editor, and from January 2024, we will no longer have the licensing or infrastructure to process book files from Easy Designer. Given the disruption caused by such changes, Cahoots is now moving to a generic photo book design software platform. In so doing we are turning our backs on the traditional photo book business model. With a personal license for YouDesign Photo Book software (or any of our other recommended tools), you will be able to generate full resolution print-ready files that can be taken to any print house with book production facilities. By using YouDesign Photo Book You will no longer be tied to Cahoots as your book production partner. (But naturally we stand ready to produce your project should you select us to do so.)

If you require exact reprints of any book previously printed by us, please get in touch as we may be able to provide you with a reprint from a backup of the associated print file. We can also provide an archive copy of this same print file (which could be professionally printed at any time in the future). A nominal fee applies for this service.

Should I edit/crop my images prior to designing my book?2024-02-26T15:26:03+08:00

We strongly advise against cropping images externally, as most photo book design tools have the facility to do a “virtual crop”. This means there is added flexibility to tesselate multiple images into a set of defined placeholder shapes, since in some cases, cropped images will not fit optimally into the relevant placeholder.

If adjusting colours, brightness, and contrast, do keep in mind that every monitor will show colours differently (unless properly calibrated to the output device). Also, as monitors are backlit, images will appear more vibrant than when printed on paper. We therefore advise caution when undertaking such work until you get a feel for the effect on the printed page in your photo book.

How do I know my order has been successfully received?2024-02-26T15:33:27+08:00

Once your order has been received, you will see an acknowledgement page with order number. You should also receive an email containing the same information. (Check your spam folder if it appears to have gone astray.)

If ordering a Cinch project, you will have passed through the checkout and payment process. (If you opted for bank transfer, your book will be on hold until funds are received.)

If ordering a book created with desktop software, you will need to upload the file to us. Once having created an order (via supplied instructions ), you will receive a link to upload your book file. Following successful upload, we will verify the page count and other details and send you an updated payment request.

Contact us if you experience difficulties with the order process.

How do I go about ordering my book?2024-02-26T15:35:30+08:00

If using desktop software such as YouDesign Photo Book, you can create an order online and as part of that process you will be able to upload your finalised PDF via our file upload page.

For Cinch projects designed in your web browser, they can be submitted via the order button top right of the web browser window. You will then be taken to the checkout to pay for your order.

Should you have continuing difficulties submitting your project, it is possible to send your file to us using a third party service. Feel free to contact us if you have any difficulties with the ordering process.

How many pages can I have in my book?2024-02-26T15:36:46+08:00

All our locally made books have a minimum page count 16 (sides). Our EVERYDAY books are produced by our fulfilment partner and have a 24 page minimum.

Due to differing paper thickness and size, there are maximum page (=”side”) limits on products as follows:

EVERYDAY Range of products: up to 300 pages (=sides) across all formats (Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should!)
CLASSIC Range of products: 200 pages , except 21cm Small Fun: 100 pages (although not recommended)
LAYFLAT Range of products: 140 pages

NOTE: Page counts above are based on physical production limitations and are generally applicable to files produced with desktop software. Projects created with Cinch may have a lower maximum page count (80pp).

While our software will permit the number of pages above, we recommend a maximum of 60 pages for best usability. (If your page count is to be very high, you may wish to consider separate volumes.)

What types of paper do you offer?2024-02-26T15:37:49+08:00

At Cahoots we offer 3 distinct paper choices. Our standard paper is a 160gsm coated stock with a satin finish. We also offer a premium warm white matt art paper of 148gsm which shows a fine texture in reflected light.

Our 216gsm layflat hinged paper also has a satin finish and is available across all our formats (sizes). However, please note that all layflat books have a maximum page count of 140.

Feel free to visit our Subiaco store where you can view sample books made with these papers.

The matt art papers are offered as a premium upgrade on a standard book. However, if you wish to create a layflat book, you must choose the LAYFLAT version of the product when starting your book design. (The reason for this is that layflat books have different page dimensions from non-layflat books.)

What covers can I choose? Do you have other options apart from what is offered in your software?2024-02-26T15:38:45+08:00

For LAYFLAT and CLASSIC ranges, you  may choose between a fabric cover or a “custom cover” (printed cover). The latter is a cover consisting of any images and/or text that you design. (Call us if you are unsure about how to go about choosing this.) There is no printing on a fabric cover.

Our plain fabric covers (which do not have printing) are offered in a range of textures and colours. We offer a number of premium fabrics suitable for special books. Some fabric covers are a suitable for foil stamping or embossing. If you require this treatment, we can refer you to a suitable service provider if we are unable to meet your requirements. (Make sure you allow time for this additional service if your book has a deadline.)

Samples of all our fabrics can be viewed by appointment in our Subiaco office.

For books in our EVERYDAY range, only a printed matt laminated cover is offered.

I have a flatbed scanner. Can I scan multiple photos at once?2024-02-26T15:41:15+08:00

If your scanner can recognise multiple photos and generate a files for each of them then there will be no issue from working more efficiently. You can scan multiple photos in a single scan if you wish. The advantage is that you will save some time in the scanning process.

However, if your scanner will create a single file with multiple images, keep in mind that you will then need to crop each scan multiple times to match the size of the part of your scan that contains the photo you are placing in your book. This takes time, so the times saved in scanning may well be lost by the extra effort required to place each photo in the book.

Additionally, you will not be able to make use of any software functions that highlight used images or can hide used images, as the software will not be able to track whether or not a single scan contains multiple photos. Thus, unless you have scanned items in the exact same order you need them placed in the photo book, you may lose some time keeping track of what photos remain to be placed, and risk leaving some out accidentally or placing some twice.

If at all possible, it is best to have one photo or item per file.

Are my digital photos going to print OK in a Cahoots photo book?2024-02-26T15:43:17+08:00

Colourwise, our workflow is designed so that your printed photos will look very similar to how they look on a properly calibrated screen. For those who understand colour profiles, our software assumes sRGB colour space, as this is the default for most consumer digital cameras and smartphones.

In terms of resolution, typically your camera’s photos will have dimensions in 1000’s of pixels on each axis, and be close to 1 or more Megabytes in size. Don’t worry if that is too technical for you. Most photo book software will flag any photos it considers to be “poor resolution” (Cinch will show a red warning flag).

If ignored, in extreme cases, these images may appear excessively blurred or pixelated. Frequently we encounter such images if they have been taken from Facebook or other online sources. These images have a resolution that is satisfactory for screen viewing, but have to be significantly smaller in print to look as good. In some cases clients have chosen to keep bad resolution images in their book. Even though they know the printed output may not be so good, the images represent important memories that need to be accommodated in the book.

If your photo is displaying a resolution warning you have three options to improve it. You can reduce the amount of cropping, and/or you can make the photo itself smaller on the page. Otherwise, you should try to re-scan at higher resolution, or try to obtain the original image file that may have a higher resolution that the file you are using. If you have received the image by sms text message, or email, it may have been automatically downsized prior to sending. You may wish to ask the sender to forward the image at “actual” or “original” size.

Is there any difference between Mac and Windows versions of Easy Designer?2024-02-26T15:45:39+08:00

As from 31/12/2023 we are discontinuing support for Easy Designer. Books created with Easy Designer MUST be submitted before 31/12/2023.

The functionality of Easy Designer is broadly equivalent across both platforms. However, the software is developed first on Windows, with feature parity on a few items remaining to be achieved. Therefore if you have a choice, the Windows version will contain all the latest features. But the macOS version may lack a few of the latest bells and whistles.

As of mid 2022, Easy Designer is compatible with macOSD 10.14 or earlier. The developers are working on development of a 64bit version of the software for current and recent versions of macOS, so full feature parity is still a little further down the track.

YouDesign Photo Book is now our recommended consumer desktop photo book design application, and is available for both Windows and macOS. Although a license is required to be purchased, Cahoots offers voucher codes ato partly offset the cost, provided the license is purchased via our affiliate link. IMPORTANTLY, YouDesign Photo Book software is in no way tied to any photo book production house.  You may output print-ready PDF files to have printed however and wherever you choose.

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