How can I use a photo as a focal point in a junk journal?

To use a photo as a focal point, use a larger print or center it on the page. You can enhance the look by creating layers with cardstock, patterned paper, or fabric mats, and by adding frames like stamped borders or vintage slides.

What is a grid layout in junk journaling?

A grid layout allows you to include multiple small photos (like 2x2 or 2x3 inches) on one page in a geometric pattern. It works best when you stick to a single theme and fill the gaps between photos with fussy cuts, labels, and small ephemera.

What are interactive photo elements for journals?

Interactive elements add movement to your journal and can hide private journaling. Examples include tip-ins (photos glued on one edge that flip up), pockets, envelopes for surprise reveals, and photo waterfalls.

What is a photo waterfall?

A photo waterfall is a stack of photos that flips up and down when you pull on a tab, creating a cascading 'waterfall' effect. It is a fantastic way to add a whole set of photos to a single journal page.

What can I use if I don't have personal photos for my journal?

You can use aesthetic photos! These are pretty, themed sets of pictures (like cherry blossoms or pumpkin spice) that add color and style to your pages even if you don't have your own prints ready.

3 Creative Ways to Use Photos in Your Junk Journal

Colleen McCarthy
Mar 21
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

I love adding photos to my junk journal. It's an easy way to save a memory and it's fun to flip back on later. Including a picture helps tell the story of the page.

If I don't have my own pictures, sometimes I'll include aesthetic photos. Aesthetic photos are just pretty pictures! They usually come in a set with a theme, like cherry blossoms or pumpkin spice. They are bright and colorful and a wonderful way to add a little something to you journal pages.

Junk journal opened to a page with a photo waterfall of cherry blossom themed pictures. — One way to add a lot of pretty photos to your junk journal is by creating a photo waterfall.

This article may contain affiliate links. This means that I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.

If you're not sure how to start, here are 3 ideas for adding photos to your junk journal:

1. As a Focal Point: Let the Photo Lead the Layout

Sometimes, one picture is so pretty it needs it's own spotlight. Using this photo as the focal point helps you create a theme and choose the best colors.

When you use a photo as your focal point:

Go big: Use a larger print, or center a standard sized photo on the page.
Create layers: Instead of just glueing the photo directly to the page, create a mat using cardstock, patterned paper, or fabric.
Frame your photos: Use stamped borders, fussy-cut paper frames, or even vintage slides to draw the eye in.

Junk journal open to a page with a big photo of a train as the focal point. — Using one big photo is the perfect way to give your page a focal point.

2. The Grid Layout: Fill the Page With Pictures

What if you have too many great photos to choose just one? A grid layout can be your best friend!

A grid page will let you include lots of pictures on just one page. Try using smaller sizes, like 2x2 or 2x3 inch prints and arrange them in a geometric pattern.

To keep your grid layout looking neat:

Stick to a theme: Keep all photos in the grid focused on one topic. If you're using personal photos, choose pictures from the same day or event. If you're using aesthetic photos, look for photos with the same them, like flowers, or shells.
Experiment with your arrangement: Play with the arrangement of your grid. Try a few different patterns. Once you're happy with your grid, glue everything down.
Fill the in the gaps: Mix your small photos with fussy cuts, stamped images, tiny labels, and other small ephemera to keep the layout dynamic and interesting.

Arranging small photos in a grid is a great way to include a lot of pictures on one page.

3. As an Interactive Element: The Surprise Reveal

One of the greatest joys of junk journaling is the interactive nature of the pages. Photos are perfect for creating surprises that flip, lift, or slide.

Interactive elements will add a sense of fun to your journal. They can also let you hide journaling, when you want to keep your thoughts private. Interactive elements can also help you fit even more photos into a smaller space.

Try creating:

Tip-ins: Glued along only one edge so they flip up.
Pockets: Slide multiple photos inside.
Envelopes: Hide photos inside for a true reveal.
Photo Waterfall: A stack of photos that flips up and down when you pull on a tab, creating a waterfall of images.

Photo waterfalls are one of my favorite interactive elements for a junk journal.

How to Make a Photo Waterfall

I love making waterfalls in my junk journal. They seem complicated at first, but once you've got the hang of it, they're a fantastic way to add a set of photos to your journal page.

If you've never made one, don't worry! I've created a freebie that includes all the pieces (even some cherry blossom themed photos!). Download the freebie in the members area, then follow along with the YouTube video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PL4TR3_uax-lyzrU8LFgf-cYjh49ewEv54&v=EvcJATTH_R8

Follow along with the tutorial to create a cherry blossom themed photo waterfall.