How to Build Your Own Pixieset
Replace Pixieset with a custom build. Client Photo Gallery, Website, CRM for Photographers
Build Difficulty: 5/5
Build a working replacement in a weekend with AI tools
Estimated Timeline
Based on 22 features at Weekend Project difficulty, expect about One weekend with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Type-safe ORM for complex relational data models
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 22 features
E-commerce(5 features)
Automatically handle print and digital order fulfillment
No commission fees on store sales for paid plans
Create and manage coupons and gift cards for store sales
Sell photos directly through galleries with integrated storefront
Sell prints and digital downloads online with automatic fulfillment
Photo Management(4 features)
Digital photo delivery and client gallery platform for sharing, proofing and selling photos online
Share photos with clients digitally through galleries
Allow clients to proof and approve photos online before purchase
Upload and store RAW photo files
Business Management(3 features)
Create and manage invoices and documents
Manage photography sessions and bookings
Simple booking and payment software for photography business management
Communication(2 features)
Send questionnaires to clients for gathering information
Pre-designed email templates for client communication
Storage(2 features)
Cloud storage for photos with varying capacity by tier
Store HD and 4K video content with capacity varying by tier
Website(2 features)
Use your own domain name for website and client galleries
Build a beautiful portfolio website and blog for photographers
Branding(1 features)
Add custom logo and branding, remove Pixieset branding
Infrastructure(1 features)
Secure and reliable hosting for website and galleries included
Cost Calculator
Keep Paying Pixieset
Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 22 features at very easy complexity.