Editing multiple photos into a composite

I have one of those composite frames meant to hold a bunch of pictures
of varying sizes and shapes.

I'd like to use software (I have an old copy of PSP) to lay things out
into one image file, then print as an 8x10 (the size of the frame) and
have everything fit.

I know enough to carefully measure the frame to get where each picture
will go and what size it is, but I'm wondering if there's a "fail-safe"
way to make sure that my layout in PSP is correct the first or second
time, without having to do a lot of trial and error.

Suggestions?

Also, any other tips for doing this type of project? For example, I've
learned to not crop photos too tightly, lest heads or other important
features get cut off once the photos are behind the matte.

In article ,
"Ed Ruf (REPLY to E-MAIL IN SIG!)" wrote:

On Thu, 15 Dec 2005 22:11:05 GMT, in rec.photo.digital TommyC
wrote:

I have one of those composite frames meant to hold a bunch of pictures
of varying sizes and shapes.

I'd like to use software (I have an old copy of PSP) to lay things out
into one image file, then print as an 8x10 (the size of the frame) and
have everything fit.

I know enough to carefully measure the frame to get where each picture
will go and what size it is, but I'm wondering if there's a "fail-safe"
way to make sure that my layout in PSP is correct the first or second
time, without having to do a lot of trial and error.

Suggestions?

Scan the mat at the ppi you intend for the composite image, have this as a
layer and use it to position the images.

Sounds simple. Thanks.

TommyC wrote:
I have one of those composite frames meant to hold a bunch of pictures
of varying sizes and shapes.

I'd like to use software (I have an old copy of PSP) to lay things out
into one image file, then print as an 8x10 (the size of the frame) and
have everything fit.

I know enough to carefully measure the frame to get where each picture
will go and what size it is, but I'm wondering if there's a "fail-safe"
way to make sure that my layout in PSP is correct the first or second
time, without having to do a lot of trial and error.

Suggestions?

Also, any other tips for doing this type of project? For example, I've
learned to not crop photos too tightly, lest heads or other important
features get cut off once the photos are behind the matte.

PSP can do it, with careful placement. Programs like Microsoft Publisher are better for
page layout.