[Naturenut]

I'm still trying to decide whether to go with smug mug or not. But in turn, I also like the idea of having my own domain name/set up.

Can you tell me a little about your experiences pro/con with creating your own photography site vs using a place like smug mug? What did you choose to do and why? Did you pay someone to create your site or did you use one of the free sites?

This is all very new to me so I'm really torn as to which direction to go regarding a having a website to showcase my work. I do know I don't want to use flickr though.

[CWyatt]

After having my own domain lying around and experimenting with some home-made design stuff I ended up looking into those paid template sights like smugmug. I went with zenfolio, because I liked the clear, basic layout and customisation options. Easy to set up, got the top account and within a weekend had it all going. In the signature if you're interested in a zenfolio example.

You may also want to consider whether you're trying to sell through a website. My personal preference was not to, and to cut out all EXIF/technical information, but there's the option to leave that stuff in.

[Adam]

If you have experience with web design and/or programming, I'd go with the personal website option, as it gives you better customization, control, and naming options. On the flip site, the photo sharing sites are really easy to use and quick to set up.

I'm working on revamping my personal photo site at the moment; some good software I've found for personal galleries can be found at phpalbum.net.

[hangu]

SlideShowPro is a decent software to create professional looking sites. Beware though, you will need to know some flash in order to customize it

If you're a serious photo professional who's deriving an income from it, then you definitely should not use Smugmug. A professional website is really not that expensive in this economy.

On the flip side, I know enough HTML/CSS/Flash to create a professional photo website but I haven't made one for myself yet. Why? Because it takes time to maintain it and I'd rather spend that time taking photos or wasting it on this damn forum.

Also you can register your own domain name and forward it to Smugmug.

[tuco]

It seems these days, and if the trend continues, you'll be cutting out users on some devices if you depend on Flash.

[hangu]

It seems these days, and if the trend continues, you'll be cutting out users on some devices if you depend on Flash.

I really couldn't give less of a rat's ass about people browsing my photo portfolio on a mobile device. They're not meant to be viewed on a 2x3 screen.

However, with all the continual rumors on flash's demise, you may be right to some extent.

[Adam]

Flash is bad. In any case, this thread has motivated me to get off my ass and finally redesign mosphotos.com! Stay tuned

Adam
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[tuco]

I really couldn't give less of a rat's ass about people browsing my photo portfolio on a mobile device. They're not meant to be viewed on a 2x3 screen.

However, with all the continual rumors on flash's demise, you may be right to some extent.

The new devices have 1024x768 screens.

[stover98074]

I have been using Smugmug and have enjoyed the experience. I do not earn a living from photography and wonder if a more robust solution would be better for professionals.

I have also posted an article on Inexpensive Macro Photography using Google Sites. While not a photo destination it works for explaining concepts.

[MRRiley]

Add another happy Zenfolio user.. I like the interface and the e-commerce features are easy to use.

Mike