# 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.