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Format Review 2026

By Craig LeontowiczUpdated August 7, 2026
Format logo

Portfolio websites built for creative professionals.

4.5
/ 5.0

Quick Answer

Format is a portfolio-focused website builder with stunning gallery templates, client proofing, and Lightroom integration — ideal for photographers and visual creatives.

The Verdict

Format is purpose-built for visual portfolios. If you're a photographer, videographer, or artist who needs a stunning online gallery with client proofing, Format delivers better portfolio-specific features than general builders like Squarespace or Wix.

The templates are gallery-first — they prioritize full-bleed images, grid layouts, and slideshow presentations. The Adobe Lightroom plugin is a killer feature for photographers who want to publish directly from their editing workflow.

However, Format is intentionally narrow. If you need a business website, blog, or online store beyond selling prints, you'll outgrow it quickly.

Pros

  • Beautiful, gallery-focused templates designed specifically for visual creatives
  • Built-in client proofing and image protection tools
  • Seamless Adobe Lightroom integration for photographers

Cons

  • Very limited for non-portfolio use cases like blogs or business sites
  • Ecommerce is basic compared to Shopify or Squarespace
  • Free plan includes Format branding

Pricing & Plans

PlanPriceKey Features
FreeFree1 page portfolio · Format branding · Basic analytics
Basic$9/monthUnlimited pages · Custom domain · Client proofing
Pro$17/monthEverything in Basic · Adobe Lightroom integration · Blog · Store

Prices verified August 5, 2026

Who Should Use Format

  • Photographers who want to showcase portfolios and sell prints online.
  • Videographers and filmmakers who need a clean, video-friendly portfolio site.
  • Visual artists and illustrators looking for gallery-first presentation.

Who Should NOT Use Format

  • Businesses that need a full-featured website beyond a portfolio.
  • Bloggers or content creators who prioritize written content.
  • Ecommerce sellers with large product catalogs.

Conclusion

Format is the best portfolio builder for photographers and visual creatives. Its gallery templates, client proofing, and Lightroom sync make it the top choice for showcasing visual work.

Try Format

Alternatives to Format

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Squarespace logo
Squarespace 4.7|Top Choice|From $16/mo

The best design templates on the market.

Pixpa logo
Pixpa 4.4|From $8/mo

All-in-one portfolio, store, and blog for creatives.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Format free to use?
Format offers a limited free plan with one page and Format branding. Paid plans start at $9/month for unlimited pages and a custom domain.
Can I sell prints on Format?
Yes, Format includes a built-in store for selling prints, downloads, and physical products on paid plans.
Does Format work with Adobe Lightroom?
Yes, Format has a direct Lightroom plugin that lets photographers publish galleries straight from their Lightroom catalog.
Is Format good for non-photographers?
Format is designed for visual creatives. If you need a general business website or blog, Squarespace or Wix would be better choices.
Best Deal
$9/mo
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At a Glance

Free Plan
Available
Skill Level
Beginner