Earlier this month, I received a generic email (actually went straight to my promotions folder) “from” zenfolio’s CEO outlining their hopes for transitioning classic users to next zen.

Ask any zenfolio classic user and we are FRUSTRATED. The archiving has destroyed the look of our websites and our ability to deliver to clients. The email initially made me feel more frustrated and more judgmental. Referencing that over 2 million photographers have used zenfolio, but also highlighting that 20,000 have signed up for next zen. Not a great transition rate and now you are telling me I’m going to be forced to transition at some point. 

As you know, I use PhotoShelter (both for Brands and for Photographers) and SmugMug, and I have storage plans with DropBox, Google, Apple. I’ve looked into PixieSet, ShootProof and others. I went back down the rabbit hole and thought

I’m going all in on PhotoShelter-

Unlimited storage ( it currently offered but I’m grandfathered” in), can update metadata and filename ON the platform, can store RAW photos

But then I remembered, doh, they don’t offer video on the for Photographers plan, and the for Brands plan is way too expensive of storage for personal use

I’m Going All in on SmugMug

Unlimited storage, super fast, can share links for family and friends to upload, green certified, based locally

But then I remembered, no blog option, custom urls, 

I’m Sticking With Zenfolio

Alas. The zenfolio I use right now, is frustrating, but(mostly) functional. Now that I’ve found some work around for the archive, I’m just going to ride it out.

I almost view it like Olympus / OM Digital solutions, despite being sold and very uncertain future, it currently works for me, and I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it.

One key thing that made me feel like I’ll stay (at least for now) beyond just the intimidation of trying to move an archive, is that when I emailed with a few questions that weren’t answered on their FAQ, I quickly received a response that was not generic at all. Unlike my Peak Design exchange.

Check It

I was able to get zenfolio to delay my archiving for an extended time

Check In

Are you using zenfolio classic, do you plan to stay or leave?