How to Make a Photo Collage

Our photo libraries are brimming with snapshots of unforgettable moments, vibrant landscapes, and treasured memories.

If you’re wondering how to make a collage from photos to showcase these captured experiences, you’re in the right place.

Creating a picture collage is a wonderful way to combine multiple images into one cohesive piece of art. That will be perfect for sharing with loved ones or decorating your space.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of how to make a collage using Icecream Photo Editor, from selecting your images and choosing a layout to refining your design with creative features.

Step 1. Download and install the collage maker

Go to the official website. Download the free photo collage creator.

Download and install the free collage maker for Windows - Icecream Photo Editor

Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the installation wizard to set up the image editor on your computer. Once installed, start the free collage maker from the desktop shortcut.

Step 2. Import the main photo

Press "Browse for images". Select the primary photo you want to feature in your photo collage and import it.

Add the main image for photo collage to Icecream Photo Editor

Step 3. Choose a template

Find the "Collage Maker" icon located in the top menu.

Collage maker icon in Icecream Photo Editor

Browse through the available templates and choose one that suits your design preferences.

Choose the template for image collage in Icecream Photo Editor

Step 4. Add photos to collage maker

Drag and drop other photos from your folders directly into the designated slots on the photo collage. Arrange these images within the template to fit your desired layout.

Add new photos to the collage maker

Step 5. Customize your collage

Reposition each photo as needed to perfect your collage’s composition.

Customize frames to make a photo collage in Icecream Photo Editor

Use the provided customization options to enhance your photo collage:

  • Adjust the borders between images for a balanced look.
  • Choose the predefined frame color or use the color picker to match the tone of your photos.
Use the color picker in Icecream Photo Editor

Step 5. Save

Once you’re satisfied with your work, click the "Save collage" button. Decide whether to overwrite the existing file or create a new one. You can pick the file format for your collage (JPEG, PNG, or BMP) and adjust the quality settings.

Note that higher quality provides better clarity but results in larger file sizes.

Select the destination folder on your computer where you’d like to keep the collage. Enter a descriptive filename for easy identification.

Press "Save" to complete the process and create your photo collage.

How to pick images for a photo collage?

Creating a photo collage involves more than just arranging pictures; selecting the right images is key to crafting a visually compelling and cohesive piece.

Here’s how choose the perfect images for your collage:

  • Determine the theme or story you want to tell with your collage. This could be based on an event, a specific subject, or a color scheme.
  • Consider who will view the collage. Are you making it for personal use, a gift, or a professional project?
  • Select high-resolution images to ensure clarity and sharpness. Avoid blurry or pixelated photos.
  • Pick photos that align with your theme and purpose. Each picture should contribute to the overall narrative or aesthetic.
  • Include a mix of different types of images, such as close-ups, wide and action shots, to add visual interest.
  • Prefer graphics that complement each other in terms of color. Using a consistent color palette can make your collage look more cohesive.
  • Choose pictures with focal points that will stand out within the collage. This helps draw attention to important details.
  • Ensure there’s enough space between images to prevent them from blending together. Use photos with varying light and dark areas to create depth.
  • Mix portrait and landscape orientations if your collage layout allows. Take images of different sizes to fit various frames in your photo collage.
  • If necessary, edit pictures for consistency in brightness, contrast, and saturation.

How to make a collage from photos: conclusion

Crafting an image collage is a rewarding way to celebrate your memories and express your creativity.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—selecting the right footage, choosing a layout, and using tools like Icecream Photo Editor—you can create a collage of pictures that beautifully showcases your favorite moments.

Paul Skidmore

Tech Writer and Photography Aficionado

Paul is a self-professed photography and tech nerd and has years of experience working with various editing software. He has a passion for travel and has taken his camera to destinations including Antarctica, Singapore, Indonesia, and Greenland.
2 min read
Related articles:
Protecting your digital images is essential in an age where sharing and distribution are commonplace. Whether you're a professional ...
Capturing the perfect moment is only half the battle, the other one is ensuring that your photos are framed and in focus. Knowing how to ...
Are you looking to take your photography skills to the next level? In this article, we'll show you how to edit photos on Windows PCs with a ...
1,469