PDF Layout Examples & Best Practices

Explore layout ideas and best practices for designing clean, compelling gallery PDFs using ARTERNAL’s PDF builder.

Written by Kalila Richards
April 7, 2026

Best Practices for Setting Up PDF Preview Layouts

Default vs. Customized PDFs

When a PDF is generated without edits, it follows a consistent structure:

• One artwork per page
• Image on one side
• Details aligned beside it

For example, in the default version, each artwork is presented in the same format across pages. This works well for quick sharing, but it can feel more like a list than a curated presentation.

By customizing the layout, you can introduce hierarchy, variation, and a stronger narrative flow.

Page 1: Cover

Example: Exhibition Cover Page

• Full-bleed installation image
• Large exhibition title
• Minimal supporting text

As seen on page 1, the artwork fills the page and immediately draws attention

Why this works:

It creates a strong first impression and draws the viewer in right away. If simple and clean isn’t your vibe, you can always add more text; it’s really up to you and the look you’re going for!

Artwork Pages: Clean + Consistent Layout

Example: Artwork Page

The artwork page of the PDF uses a consistent artwork layout:

• Large artwork image
• Details aligned to the side

On page 2, the sculpture is clearly presented with its title, medium, size, and price neatly organized.

💡 The captions displayed can be edited in the Brand Profile settings

Why this works:

Consistency makes the document easy to scan and understand quickly.

Detail Pages: Adding Context and Depth

Example: Detail Slide

Between artwork pages, detail or text-focused pages are introduced.

• Close-up or installation views
• Short descriptive text
• More visual breathing room

On page 4, the focus shifts to a tighter crop with descriptive text layered subtly over the image

Why this works:

It breaks repetition and gives the viewer a deeper understanding of the work.

Consistent Visual Language

Across the entire document:

• Typography stays consistent
• Image sizing follows a pattern
• Spacing is intentional

Even as layouts shift, the overall design feels unified.

Why this works:

Consistency builds trust and makes the PDF feel professionally designed.

Closing Page: Artist Feature Walkthrough

Example: Blank Slide

The final page shifts back to a more editorial layout, showing how a generated PDF can be transformed into a polished artist feature. The background uses a solid color instead of an image. An image of the artist is added alongside a short description.

Using a blank page allowed us to include

• Longer text to introduce the artist’s work
• Supporting image to add personality
• Add exhibition details

On page 12, the combination of portrait and text creates a strong, thoughtful ending

Why this works:

It leaves the viewer with context and a lasting impression.

What Changed from the Default PDF

Compared to the original generated PDF:

The customized version introduces:

• A strong cover instead of a simple title page
• More variation in layouts across pages
• Dedicated detail and text pages for context
• A more intentional beginning and ending

These changes turn a functional document into a curated presentation.

Pro Tips

• Use your Brand Profile to keep styling consistent
• Duplicate pages to maintain layout structure
• Use detail slides to highlight key works
• Preview frequently before downloading

Suspended States PDF Example:

This example shows how a generated PDF can be refined into a more elevated presentation.