Top 5 Pixieset Alternatives for Photographers

What We’ll Cover

In this guide from Picflow, we explore five great alternatives to Pixieset that will level up your workflow and simplify client interactions. We’ll cover features, pricing, pros, and cons to help you zero in on the right tool. 

Let’s go!

What is Pixieset?

Pixieset offers photographers a platform to create tailor-made websites boasting adaptable templates and design choices. It’s a popular choice for photographers seeking a quick and easy way to share photos with their clients thanks to features like:

• Customizable online galleries

• Straightforward client proofing tools

• Integrated print orders

While Pixieset can simplify a photographer's workflow, it's missing some potentially game-changing features you might benefit from.

A great example is image annotation—with a tool like Picflow, you can directly draw on images to provide creative input or mark areas of improvement. This feature is especially helpful when it comes to remote or virtual collaboration, as it eliminates the need for lengthy email threads back and forth.

Why Should You Explore Pixieset Alternatives?

Pixieset is a popular tool, but users still have complaints. In this section, we’ve summarized some of the more common pain points found in user feedback on sites like Trustpilot, GetApp, and Capterra.

Expanding Costs

While Pixieset offers various pricing tiers, it might not provide the best value for money. Some photographers feel alternative tools offer more competitive pricing packages that meet their needs without breaking the bank.

For example, Pixieset’s Basic plan ($8/month) offers 10 GB of storage across all the galleries you create. Picflow’s Plus plan (also $8/month) offers 100 GB of storage.

Complex User Interface

While Pixieset offers a solid set of features, its complex user interface can pose a challenge to new users. This steep learning curve dampens the initial experience. 

Picflow, on the other hand, prioritizes user-friendliness, sporting step-by-step guides (like How to Embed a Photo Gallery on WordPress).

Lack of Powerful Features and Integrations

Pro photographers require advanced features and integrations to boost their workflow. And while Pixieset offers a solid set of core features, it doesn’t always meet these needs. For example, its gallery customization features are lacking compared to alternatives like Picflow.

Poor Customer Support

Effective customer support is crucial for resolving issues quickly. There have been instances where users found Pixieset’s customer support lacking, reporting slow response times and unresolved issues.

What to Look for in a Great Pixieset Alternative

When scouting for a Pixieset alternative, keep specific criteria in mind to secure a platform that aligns with your needs:

• Image Format and Resolution Support: Although many image-sharing services cater to various formats, certain platforms have limitations. Make sure your tool can handle the image format and resolution of your gallery.

• Client Proofing Capabilities: Look for a platform that includes an intuitive client proofing process, enabling users to review, comment, and approve photos. This keeps communication crystal-clear—minimizing misunderstandings. Take a look at Picflow’s extensive review and feedback options, for example.

• Handling Large File Size and Quantity: Opt for a platform that efficiently manages large files without compromising on performance.

• Security Measures for Photo Delivery: Secure delivery of photos can make or break a platform. The photo gallery tool you choose should offer powerful security features, including private password protection, watermarking, and disabling right-click save.

Five Top-Tier Pixieset Competitors

If exploring alternatives to Pixieset seems a little daunting, don’t worry – we’ve got your back. We’ll help you find a winning solution that’ll take your gallery to the next level.

Here’s an overview of the platforms we’ll be covering: 

1. Picflow

2. SmugMug 

3. Zenfolio

4. PhotoShelter 

5. CloudSpot 

Now, let’s delve into the details.

Picflow

Picflow is an online gallery platform with a modern, intuitive design. It enables you to create sleek, responsive galleries quickly and easily—no coding required.

Our tool is designed to enhance and simplify your workflow with a set of features built around the ways creatives work. It features client proofing features like image annotation, comments, flags and tags, and lists, as well as full customization options to help you create unique galleries.

We also offer a flexible set of gallery sharing options, complete with roles, permissions, and authentication for added security.

Key Features

• Responsive Galleries: Create stunning gallery designs that look crisp on any device, ensuring your work is displayed in the best light regardless of screen size.

• Customizable Gallery Covers: Enhance your galleries’ appeal with a customizable cover image. Choose from different sizes, set an overlay color, and adjust the focal point to make a lasting first impression.

• Embedded Media: Enrich your client galleries by embedding videos, music, or social posts. Additionally, upload your logo and add contact information to convert visitors into potential customers.

• Versatile Client Reviews: Your clients can leave comments, mark their favorite shots, give approvals, annotate directly on the images, and use color labels—all contributing to a smooth review and approval process.

• Advanced Workflows: Activate Advanced Mode and unlock access to powerful tools like review filters, multi-selection capabilities, bulk editing options, and handy export tools.

• Multiple Sharing Options: Share your galleries via invite or sharing link, or embed them in your website. Set a time limits, add watermarks, and assign roles and permissions for added security.

Pricing

Picflow’s pricing ranges from a Free plan with basic features and 2 GB storage to Plus and Pro plans at $8 and $16 per month, offering up to 1 TB storage (expandable), advanced review options, and additional security and branding features. All plans include a free trial.

Pros and Cons