Abstract: A leaf for a photographic album has a backing layer upon which a photograph may be mounted. On the backing layer is a frame layer has a central opening within which the photograph may be mounted on the backing layer. The frame layer is embossed adjacent to the central opening to form an embossed portion. The frame layer is attached to the backing layer along three of its four sides leaving a fourth side which is not attached to the backing layer, forming an access passageway. The embossed portion is spaced from the backing layer to form a slot therebetween. A mat layer is adapted to be inserted through the access passageway. The mat layer has an aperture through which a photograph mounted on the backing layer may be viewed. The outer edges of the mat layer are held within the slots formed by the embossed portions. The mat layer is locked in position by engagement with the embossed portions on all four sides of the frame layer.

Abstract: A hinge system for an album, such as a photograph album, includes a plurality of leafs each having a backing layer. The backing layer of each album leaf is folded along its inner edge to form interlocking portions which engage corresponding portions on adjacent leafs to interconnect the leafs. An album cover assembly includes a bracket along the spine of the album for retaining at least one of the interlocking portions to hold the interconnected leafs in the album. The hinge system relies upon the elements formed by folding the backing layer of the album leafs and eliminates the need for additional binding or hinge elements, such as wires, posts or rods that add to the cost and complexity of the album leafs.