Ive reviewed many custom photo printing services but none quite like Chatbooks.

So, who, exactly, is Chatbooks most geared towards: novices or more discerning users?

The answer is a bit complicated.

Chatbooks Photo Books

Chatbooks offers a subscription service for users who frequently order custom-printed photo books.

That doesnt mean Chatbooks skimps on options.

The app and the web software are similar in that they are straightforward and relatively painless to use.

A Chatbook photo book open on a kitchen counter

I chose around two dozen images from my computer and uploaded them to the software via a + button.

Once the upload is complete, Chatbooks automatically fills your book with photos.

I thought the square book format would cause some problems but images either appeared as full bleeds (i.e.

A Chatbook photo book open on a kitchen counter

edge-to-edge with no margins) or cropped to fit the page without cutting off much of the photo.

Once thats done, youre ready to check out.

Add your shipping address, shipping method and payment details and youre done.

Screenshot of the Chatbooks web interface

Wed recommend it over Chatbooks for more experienced book makers.

It certainly looks and feels luxurious and its page spreads lay flat like a professional photo book when opened.

The paper quality is also top-notch.

Screenshot of the Chatbooks web interface

Photos are printed on hefty silk paper thats five times thicker than whats in Chatbooks Classic Photo Books.

The print quality of my photos in the book was exceptional.

Color was also consistent throughout, particularly for light and dark skintones in portraits.

Screenshot of the Chatbooks web interface

(Inferior printing services can struggle with accurate skintones.)

I just wish there were a few additional sizes, formats, and layouts offered.

In the end, I think advanced users will find Chatbooks limiting overall.

Screenshot of the Chatbooks web interface

A Chatbook photo book open on a kitchen counter

Screenshot of the Chatbooks web interface

A Chatbook photo book open on a kitchen counter

A Chatbook photo book open on a kitchen counter

A Chatbook photo book open on a kitchen counter

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