Photo gallery or cloud storage: which should you use for client delivery?

A cloud folder works for transferring files that have already been selected. A photo gallery is more suitable when clients need to discover a full shoot, select images or order prints. The difference lies in the experience you offer, not just the amount of storage available.

A shared folder delivers files; a gallery presents your work

A graphic designer waiting for six final images generally knows what to do with a well-named folder. A couple discovering their wedding photographs expects a different presentation: images to browse, moments to find and straightforward access for loved ones.

The choice therefore depends on the action required. If the recipient simply needs to retrieve files, a folder may be enough; if they need to look, choose or buy, a gallery offers a more suitable setting.

This distinction avoids comparing gigabytes alone. Two tools can hold the same JPEGs while creating a very different experience for the person receiving them.

What cloud storage does well

Cloud storage is convenient for exchanging files with a team familiar with that organization. A clear folder structure and explicit filenames can be enough for a technical delivery that has already been approved.

Set access permissions to match the recipient’s role: viewing, downloading or collaborative work. A final delivery should let the client find their files easily, with clear instructions.

A shared folder is less convenient when choices come back as screenshots or successive messages. You then have to identify which image each request refers to and establish which list is final.

A photo gallery makes choices clearer ✨

In a gallery, images take center stage. The cover and presentation order can introduce the story before the client thinks about downloading.

Pelli lets you personalize the gallery with your logo, colors and typography. This visual extension of your studio keeps delivery from feeling like a simple file drop.

In Pelli, your client adds preferred images to their favorites, then confirms their selection using the send button. You receive the list of selected photos by email. You can also enable comments to collect a request on the relevant image.

For example, you present thirty portraits for ten final images. The client marks their favorites in the gallery, sends the selection and adds a specific request to the relevant image; you work from the same references when editing.

Downloading should remain an obvious step

Clients should not have to guess whether they are looking at previews or final photographs. State clearly what is ready and what they can retrieve.

In Pelli, you enable downloads according to the stage of the assignment. You can present images for selection, then open downloads when the final photographs are ready.

Add a short instruction to your message: where to open the images, how to download them and whom to contact with questions. A precise sentence is better than a lengthy guide sent after the first difficulty.

Organize your deliveries and archives 📁

In Pelli, you guide clients through discovering the shoot, selecting images and receiving their photographs. Also keep independent copies of your originals, editing catalogs and the files you need to revisit a project.

Organize your archives by project and regularly check that you can restore your copies. Archives bring together the materials to retain; backups protect them over time.

Which option fits your next delivery?

For final files going to a professional contact, keep the exchange simple and clearly identified. For discovery, selection or sales after a session, give more attention to presentation and the client’s actions.

With Pelli, you present and deliver your photographs in a gallery that reflects your brand. Your client explores the story, finds their favorites and accesses the images you make available.

To explore that stage further, learn how online photo selection works.