Replace Pixieset and Google Drive with One Tool

A common two-platform setup: Google Drive for file storage and backup, Pixieset for client gallery presentation. Each serves a different purpose, so the combination feels logical. But in practice, the double-platform workflow creates more friction than most photographers realize — until they step back and count the steps involved in a typical delivery.

The Double-Platform Problem

Here is the typical workflow when using both platforms:

1. Edit files in Lightroom and export JPEGs
2. Upload to Google Drive (for backup and raw file access)
3. Re-upload the same JPEGs to Pixieset (for client gallery)
4. Create the gallery structure in Pixieset
5. Set the PIN and share settings
6. Copy the Pixieset link and send to client
7. When the client needs files later, check Pixieset link still works or retrieve from Drive

That is two uploads of the same files, two sets of storage costs, and two platforms to monitor for link expiry and access issues. The platforms don't communicate — you are the integration layer.

Beyond the workflow inefficiency: Google Drive is not a client gallery. It has no gallery view optimized for photography, no branded presentation, no sections for navigating by moment or story, and no clear download UX. Clients who receive a Drive link have to navigate a file browser, which is a functional but poor experience for a professional deliverable.

Comparison: Pixieset + Drive vs Lumeny

Factor	Pixieset + Drive	Lumeny
Client gallery experience	Pixieset: good	Good (sectioned)
Raw file storage	Drive	Separate (not replaced)
Portfolio website	Pixieset add-on	Auto-generated
Shoot briefings	No	Yes
Project tracking	No	Booking overview
GDPR-compliant hosting	No	Yes (Hetzner DE)
Uploads needed per project	2 (Drive + Pixieset)	1 (Lumeny)
Monthly cost	€8–40 + Drive storage	€9–19

Note: Lumeny does not replace Google Drive for raw file backup. If you use Drive as your primary archive for RAW files, you should continue doing so. What Lumeny replaces is the second Pixieset upload for client-facing gallery delivery.

Lumeny's Role in the Stack

The streamlined workflow with Lumeny:

1. Edit files and export JPEGs
2. Upload to Lumeny gallery (one upload, one platform)
3. Organize into sections, set cover image and PIN
4. Send branded gallery link to client

Your RAW files and working files stay in Drive or wherever you archive them. Lumeny handles the client-facing gallery experience, the portfolio, and the project briefing — the parts that were split between Pixieset and a collection of Google Docs.

For photographers on Pixieset's free or Basic tier who use Drive for overflow storage, the consolidated Lumeny cost at €9/month is likely comparable to or less than their current combined spend — with fewer platforms to manage. See best client gallery platform for a broader platform comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Lumeny replace Google Drive entirely? No. Lumeny is for client gallery delivery, portfolio, and briefings — not bulk file storage. Keep Drive or another service for RAW files and project archives.

What happens to my existing Pixieset galleries? They stay live on Pixieset until you cancel your subscription. Migrate at your own pace — there's no requirement to switch everything at once.

Is Lumeny storage included in the subscription? Yes. Gallery storage is included in the €9 and €19 plans (25 and 100 galleries respectively). There are no per-GB charges for gallery content.

Can clients download the full resolution files from Lumeny? Yes. Clients can download individual images or all photos at full resolution. You control whether downloads are enabled per gallery.

Written by Christian Bauer, founder of Lumeny and photographer with 10+ years of experience.