The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between Hardcover and Softcover Photobooks

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between Hardcover and Softcover Photobooks

Oct 20, 2025

Creative photo book gift idea soft cover and har cover book made by the Little Emotions platform
Creative photo book gift idea soft cover and har cover book made by the Little Emotions platform
Creative photo book gift idea soft cover and har cover book made by the Little Emotions platform

Creating a custom photobook is one of the most meaningful ways to preserve your favorite memories , but when it comes to choosing between a hardcover and a softcover photobook, how do you decide?

At Little Emotions , we offer both styles , each crafted with premium materials, eco-friendly paper, and thoughtful design. Whether you’re making a gift or a personal keepsake, this guide will help you find the best photobook type for your story.

What Is a Hardcover Photobook?

A hardcover photobook features a rigid, matte-laminate cover that gives it a professional, elegant look. It’s sturdy, durable, and built to last for generations.

Available Sizes:

  • A4 (21×30 cm / 8.3×11.7")

  • Square (21×21 cm / 8.3×8.3")

Specifications:

  • Matte-laminate hardcover finish

  • 200gsm gloss paper for vivid color and image depth

  • 24–300 pages

  • Perfect binding for a sleek, modern look

Best for:

  • Weddings, anniversaries, graduations

  • Family photo collections

  • Professional portfolios

  • Milestone gifts and long-term keepsakes

With its premium quality and durability, a hardcover photobook feels timeless — it’s designed for moments you’ll revisit again and again.

Custom photo book created with Little Emotions app showing multiple custom photo books.

What Is a Softcover Photobook?

A softcover photobook features a flexible, lightweight cover , perfect for casual storytelling, travel journals, or everyday memories.

Available Size:

  • A5 (15×21 cm / 5.8×8.3")

Specifications:

  • 150gsm gloss paper for bright, clear photos

  • 20–300 pages

  • Lightweight, easy to carry, and affordable

Best for:

  • Travel memories and vacations

  • Baby albums or everyday photo stories

  • Gifts for friends and family

  • Creative projects or event recaps

Softcover photobooks are ideal for those who love simplicity and flexibility , without compromising on print quality.

Soft Cover Photo book made by little emotions platformgood quality Photo book bindings made by little emotions platform

Hardcover vs. Softcover: Which One Should You Choose?

Feature

Hardcover Photobook

Softcover Photobook

Durability

Highly durable, long-lasting

Lightweight and flexible

Finish

Matte-laminate, premium look

Glossy soft finish

Best For

Weddings, professional albums, major milestones

Everyday stories, travel, casual gifts

Paper Type

200gsm gloss paper

150gsm gloss paper

Pages

24–300 pages

20–300 pages

Feel

Sturdy, elegant, timeless

Portable

Eco-Friendly

Sustainably sourced paper, local fulfillment

Sustainably sourced paper, local fulfillment

Both options at Little Emotions are printed using eco-conscious materials, including paper from sustainably managed forests and local fulfillment to reduce carbon emissions.

No matter which option you choose, your photobook will be both beautiful and planet-friendly.

Custom Photo book hard cover and soft cover book made by Little emotions

Why Our Customers Love Both

Many of our customers start with a softcover photobook for their everyday adventures and later upgrade to a hardcover version for milestone events.

Both styles let you:

  • Design easily online

  • Add text, captions, and layouts

  • Preview your design before ordering

  • Enjoy high-quality printing that brings your photos to life

It’s all about how you want your memories to feel , simple and playful or premium and lasting.

Our Eco Promise 🌿

Every photobook we print is made with care for both your memories and the planet.

  • Sustainably sourced paper or wood from certified forests

  • Local fulfillment to minimize shipping distance and carbon emissions

  • High-quality, responsibly printed materials

At Little Emotions, we’re committed to making sustainability part of every story we help you tell.

Final Thoughts: The Best Photobook Type Is the One That Fits Your Story

If you want something timeless, durable, and elegant — go hardcover.

If you prefer light, and flexible , choose softcover.

Either way, your story deserves to be told beautifully.

Ready to Create Yours?

Visit Little Emotions today to design your custom photobook in minutes.

Choose your favorite format, personalize every page, and preserve your memories sustainably , because every little emotion deserves a big story. 💛