🖼️ Collage Layout Planner

Create professional photo collage layouts with drag-and-drop rectangle arrangement. Design custom templates and export as SVG files.

Width of your collage canvas
Height of your collage canvas
Choose from common photo sizes or use custom dimensions
How many photo rectangles to start with
Choose initial arrangement pattern
Gap between photo rectangles
Display alignment grid for precise positioning
Display dimensions on each photo rectangle
Automatically align rectangles to grid points
Visual styling for photo rectangles

Your Result:

11" × 8.5" Canvas
Photo 1
3.5" × 2.4"
Photo 2
3.5" × 2.4"
Photo 3
3.5" × 2.4"
Photo 4
3.5" × 2.4"
4 Photos
Rectangle Count
Grid Layout
Arrangement
0.25" Spacing
Photo Gaps
📐 Example collage layout with draggable photo rectangles

How to Use This Collage Layout Planner

How to Use the Collage Layout Planner:

  1. Set Canvas Dimensions: Choose your collage size using presets (4×6, 8×10, 11×14) or enter custom dimensions in inches
  2. Configure Layout: Set the number of photos (1-20), choose spacing between rectangles, and select a layout style
  3. Select Visual Options: Enable grid lines, measurements, snap-to-grid, and pick a color theme for your layout
  4. Generate Canvas: Click "Generate Layout" to create your interactive collage planning canvas
  5. Arrange Photos: Drag rectangles to reposition, resize using corner handles, or delete unwanted rectangles
  6. Add More Photos: Use the "Add Rectangle" button to include additional photo placeholders as needed
  7. Export Layout: Download your finished layout as an SVG file for printing or digital use

Pro Tips: Use snap-to-grid for precise alignment, enable measurements to see exact dimensions, and try different color themes to visualize your collage. The SVG export maintains perfect quality for professional printing and can be opened in design software like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.

How It Works

Advanced Collage Layout Technology:

Our planner uses sophisticated SVG-based rendering and interactive design principles to create professional photo collage layouts:

  1. SVG Canvas System: Renders layouts using scalable vector graphics for crisp display at any zoom level. Maintains precise measurements in real-world units (inches) with accurate aspect ratios
  2. Interactive Drag & Drop: Implements native browser drag API with real-time visual feedback. Calculates collision detection, boundary constraints, and smooth positioning animations
  3. Grid-Based Alignment: Uses mathematical grid snapping algorithms to align rectangles to precise intervals. Provides visual grid overlay with customizable spacing increments
  4. Dynamic Resize Handles: Corner and edge handles enable proportional and free-form resizing. Maintains minimum dimensions and prevents overlap conflicts during resize operations
  5. Layout Algorithms: Implements multiple automatic arrangement patterns including grid distribution, mosaic generation, cascade positioning, and random scattering with optimal spacing
  6. Export Processing: Generates clean SVG files with proper viewBox settings, embedded styles, and print-ready dimensions. Optimizes file size while preserving layout accuracy

The system is optimized for professional use with precise measurement display, multiple color themes, and export formats suitable for both digital sharing and high-quality printing workflows.

When You Might Need This

Frequently Asked Questions

What file format does the collage layout export to?

The tool exports layouts as SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) files, which maintain perfect quality at any size and can be opened in most design software. SVG files are ideal for printing because they preserve exact measurements and can be easily converted to other formats like PDF or PNG if needed.

Can I resize photo rectangles after placing them on the canvas?

Yes, all photo rectangles are fully resizable using corner and edge handles. Click and drag the handles to adjust dimensions while maintaining proportions, or use edge handles for independent width/height adjustment. The snap-to-grid feature helps maintain alignment during resizing.

How accurate are the measurements for printing?

The measurements are precise to 0.125 inches and designed for professional printing. The SVG export includes exact dimensions that printing services can use directly. Always verify with your printer that they accept SVG files, or convert to PDF for guaranteed compatibility.

What's the maximum number of photos I can include in one collage?

You can include up to 20 photo rectangles in a single collage layout. This limit ensures optimal performance and prevents overcrowded designs. For larger collections, consider creating multiple collages or using a larger canvas size to accommodate more photos comfortably.

Do the preset canvas sizes match standard frame dimensions?

Yes, all preset canvas sizes (4×6, 5×7, 8×10, 11×14, 16×20) correspond to standard photo frame and print sizes available at most photo services and frame shops. The custom size option allows you to create layouts for non-standard frames or specific project requirements.