I’ve been in business for over 10 years.
I’ve learned a lot along the way with lots of trial of and error with products, services, courses, etc.
This is my current list of essential programs that I cannot live without!
So, whether you're a new photographer or been business for a while, I hope you find this list helpful.

#1 ClickCommunity

The education that is available these days to photographers is just incredible.
I remember when I started out over 10 years ago, everything was so secretive.
Or if you wanted to learn more you had to travel to California for a very expensive in-person course.
I can't imagine starting out now and having so much knowledge right at your fingertips.


Just check out the site an I think you'll instantly see the value in the education provided.

#2 BackBlaze

I cannot put into words how thankful I am for this program and how many times it has prevented me from having a breakdown.

I learned about Backblaze a few years ago, and I’ve never once questioned my subscription.

This will constantly backup your computer to their cloud. You don’t have to remember to do anything!

A couple years ago, during the busiest time of year for me, my mac just crashed.
I had about 40 seconds of a “Holy $^*#” moment….and then I remembered I had signed up for this.
Up until this time I basically had forgotten I even had signed up.
Once I got my computer working again I went to the website, signed in, and alllll of my computer folders and files were right there! It was like the light beams of heaven shined down and the horns blew their triumphant song.

They have options to select specific folders or files to download (and that download is ready in just moments).
Or you can choose to order a USB or External Drive and have it sent to you (and you can even get your money back if you send the drive back to them!)

I can’t say enough good things about this program and I happily list it as my number one necessity.

$9 a month (Or I do the yearly option to save $$$). Absolutely 100% worth it!

#3 Sessions

This program makes scheduling sessions & especially back-to-back mini sessions, so streamline & easy!
You can also setup automatic email reminders, take contracts & questionnaires, and it’s super easy to set up.

#4 PIXIESET

I have tried other gallery hosting platforms over the years, and pixieset has been my favorite!
I easily upload the photos, it beautifully arranges them, and sends them off to the family.
Both my side, and my client’s side of the process is so simple and easy to use.
- you can set up an online shop with the best printing labs, and it ships right to your client.
I also have some products that i have found & loved, and even though those labs don’t work thru pixieset, i can set it up so i self fulfill those items myself.
Another thing i love about this, is that i had a client once whose order had been damaged in transit. I contact pixieset and they took care of the problem asap and my client had their order reprinted immediately.
- Pixieset also offers some extra “perks”, including a mobile album app, client invoices & questionnaires, and now even offers website hosting.

I can't imagine running my business without these 4 very helpful tools. I hope you find ways to utilize these in your business as well.