Proofing is not "send everything and hope."
It is a product decision: fewer decisions for the client, clearer rules for you.
1. Set expectations before delivery
Tell them how many favorites you need, by when, and what happens after. Ambiguity creates 40-message threads.
2. Cull before you share
If you would not print it, do not force them to rank it. Curate first.
3. Use a real gallery, not a folder
Folders dump files. Galleries create a path: view, heart, download, buy.
4. Structure by story
Ceremony, portraits, family, party. Clients finish sections. They do not finish chaos.
5. Mobile first
Most hearts happen on phones at 11pm. If your gallery is desktop-only theater, you lose.
6. One link, not five apps
If proofing requires a login gym, they delay. Pixbox guest links stay simple. Box Free · $19 · $49.
7. Deadlines with a reason
"Please select by Friday so the album design can start" beats "or else."
8. Prints when emotion peaks
Favorites → cart. Store tool is $5/mo when you want in-gallery buy.
FAQ
How many photos should I deliver for proofing? Fewer, better. Enough to cover the story. Not every burst frame.
Should clients download full-res during proofing? Your call. Many studios unlock full-res after selection or payment. Pixbox supports download controls on the delivery product.
Read more comparisons: pixbox.io/alternatives.