> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://helping.alive-pic.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# Understanding Templates and Layouts

Templates are the blueprint for your photo booth output. They control how captured photos are arranged, what text and graphics surround them, and how the final result looks — both on screen and in print.

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## What Is a Template?

A template defines:

* **Layout** — How many photos, their size, and where they're positioned
* **Background** — A solid color or custom image behind the photos
* **Text** — Event titles, dates, contact info, or any custom text
* **Overlays** — Textures, borders, logos, and decorative elements
* **Print size** — The physical dimensions of the printed output (2x6, 4x6, etc.)

Think of it as a frame for your photos. The photos fill the slots, and the template makes everything look polished and professional.

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## How Templates Work

1. You **select a template** for your event
2. Guests **take photos** — the number of photos matches the template's slots
3. Photos are **placed into the template** automatically
4. The result is displayed on the **share screen** and used for **printing**

[screenshot: Template with photos placed in slots]

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## Template Sizes

ALIVE supports several standard print sizes:

* **2x6 inches** — Classic photo strip (the booth standard)
* **4x6 inches** — Photo card (portrait)
* **6x4 inches** — Photo card (landscape)

Your template size determines the print output size. Make sure your template matches the paper loaded in your printer.

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## Photo Slots

Slots are the placeholders where guest photos go. Each slot defines:

* Position and size on the canvas
* Shape (rectangle or circle)
* How the photo fits (cover, contain, or fill)

A template can have 1 to many slots. More slots = more photos per session.

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## Built-in vs Custom

ALIVE comes with **built-in templates** for common layouts. You can also **create your own** using the template editor for fully custom designs.

| Start with built-in templates to get a feel for how they work. Once you're comfortable, dive into the editor to create templates that match your brand and your clients' needs.