Which Web host?

[camo]

Hi

I am trying to choose which host to use for a new photo Web site. I have been impressed with members sites here but can not decide on a couple of points.

As far as I can see the choices include; Zenfolio, Fotopic, Clickpic, Photium, Smugmug and Justhost. Important to me are: an unlimited account, professional look, galleries, ability to order prints, reasonable cost, file protection, file size, no adverts and domain name. Is there anything else members have found are more than nice to have features? Has anyone used a host and now regret their choice?

Specifically my favourite is the extremly professional Zenfolio but this uses mpix for prints, isn't htis an American print shop, can you order prints from your own site in the UK? For those that choose Z which level to you use?

I also like Fotopic which is easy to get prints off but I realise you need to upgrade to avoid adverts and get an unlimited store. What upgrade do members use and what is the maximum file size?

Should I dismiss the alternatives?

Lastly relative to all sites are the files well protected or do they need watermarking?

Sorry I have so many questions but I suspect a number of members will benefit from the more experienced members.

Roy

[Mungo]

Did you decide on any particular site Roy? I use photopic and must admit I don't keep it updated.
I for one would love to see your pictures on the web

[camo]

Hi Mungo

I think I prefer the ease and look of Zenfolio however my biggest negative is no UK print ability. I emailed Z who have confirmed this is an issue for them which they have recognised and they are close to agreeing an agreement with a UK printhouse. In their email they are confident this will be in place within two months.

I also like your Fotopic which is a similar price (free entry level with upgrades for file capacity) however has printing immediately available. Printing is important to me as I appreciate a picture much more in its printed form. As I generally use Asda to print I want to improve the eventual coloured prints.

I am pretty sure I will go for Z and wait for the printing to be available. In the mean time I have found lots more options although many are very limited or expensive. If i use Z I think I will opt for the middle upgrade which is about $40 pre year but gives me another remote storage facility.

The selection process is very grey and I would like to hear from other members experience.

Roy

[Keith Talbot]

hi roy,

im a zenfolio user,ive gone for the middle option and have found no reason to doubt i made the right choice.

its quick and very easy to use and you have control over a wide range of options,i was going to make the point of ordering prints but your already on that one

the tech support is very fast and freindly as well,not being over technical myself i needed to know how to link my domain name to the site,a few emails later and it was all done! ,i was expecting a ' go here go there click this ' etc but they emailed back and said ' give us all the relevant details and we'll do it for you ' brilliant!

also on the subject of protection i dont think any picture is safe on any site,there is always someone thats going to know how to get round it all but zen certainally seems to make it harder than any other site i looked into.

all in all im very happy.

[camo]

Hi Keith

I had all but made my mind up but your advice clinches it. I was impressed that Z answered my question immediately and members sites look fabulous.

I will go for the middle option as you have as I like the unlimited account however I think I will password protect some folders.

Regards

Roy