# Page 2 | Format Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra

> Page 2 - Is Format the right Website Builder solution for you? Explore 207 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/157153/Format/reviews

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Format

4.7 (207)

Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/)

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Last updated March 13th, 2026

# Page 2 - Reviews of Format

## Showing most helpful reviews

Showing 26-50 of 207 Reviews

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Rating

Company Size

Reviewer's Role

Length of Use

Frequency of Use

IM

Ian M.  
freelance photographer and videographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: I used a free trial

### "A joy to use "

April 30, 2022

5.0

i'm still working on my site and and it wont be fully ready for another few weeks, but i really am enjoying the process of making it and its been fun using format. its all new to me making a website and the staff/ team have been so helpful. it been great!

Pros

its just so easy to use and get your head around and its fun trying to figure it all out. My favourite thing has been just playing around with the layout and getting things the way i want them to look for my site. the software really is user friendly and a pleasure to use.

Cons

nothing really, just kind of wished there might have been a few more simple/plain themes to choose from. that are so basic that they dont take away from the work or at least you have the option to further tweak the designs yourself.

Review Source

AG

Autumn G.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Format is a game changer!"

September 24, 2019

5.0

I’ve tried seemingly every common website building company out there - I’m so happy with Format after two years that I’m constantly raving about it to my photographer friends. It negates any need for separate cloud storage, client proofing software, and website/portfolio design products.

Pros

Amazing functionality and endless features that are constantly being improved and added to! The annual package is the most ideal solution for a small business owner like me who is focused on streamlining all of my storage, portfolio, proofing and website needs.

Cons

I would love to see an improvement to accessing site editing functions on mobile. I’m frequently traveling for work, and am often away from desktop/laptop access to my dashboard, which makes quick changes to the website difficult.

Reason for choosing Format

The seamless way all of the product features work together is highly desirable.

Switched from

[GoDaddy Website Builder](https://www.capterra.com/p/182500/GoDaddy-Website-Builder/)

Lack of product improvement

Review Source

Bartosz P.  
Freelance photographer  
  
Used the software for: 6-12 months

### "So far the best software for building websites. I can be focused on my work instead of fixing bugs."

September 19, 2017

5.0

Pros

Customer support is awesome here! They are answering my questions immediatelly. Format is nice because if you want to keep it simple you can, as I do. I just use it for simple gallery to showcase my photograph and never had any problems with that. Feature called "proofing" saved me a lot of time with selecting photos remotely with my clients. And also it is good because you look more professional with this proofing thing instead of sending numbers of files via email. I would highly recommend this for a photographers.

Cons

There are some times that working in "manager panel" is really slow but it's not a big thing. For now the only feature that is missing is uploading files in the background, so you can work on other things in your website while uploading a gallery.

Review Source

MP

Matthew P.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "A great product (though I found something better)"

August 23, 2022

4.0

Format served me well and provided very good customer service. I used it happily for a small number of years albeit at a fairly simple level. It allowed me to share galleries that provided a reasonable user experience for my clients and to promote my business with an attractive website.

Pros

I settled on Format because it offered most features I was looking for at an acceptable price point. At the time I was looking mainly for a way to share galleries with clients for review. What I liked most was the ability to customise templates via HTML. The customer service from Format was very good.

Cons

The e-commerce functionality did not meet my needs at the right price point, and I found the configuration options for client galleries limiting. It's important to note that I last used Format close to 2 years ago.

Reason for choosing Format

I trialled Squarespace briefly and preferred the ease of use of Format.

Review Source

TW

Tori W.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "I have been using Format for quite some time now and still think its the best option for me. "

September 12, 2017

5.0

The ability to easily customize and update my website without hiring out someone to do so.

Pros

I love that it is quick and easy. I can change anything I need to in a matter of seconds. I love that the format team is always making improvements and doing their best to keep the user interface simple while giving their customers what they ask for.

Cons

I think there could be more plan options. I recently had to upgrade my website because I was going over in image count due to a recent shoot I was proofing for a client. I was shocked at the huge jump in price just for more image count. Not a whole lot of bang for the amount of bucks ($$$) there. I'll be downgrading again as soon as my client is done proofing their shoot. I would like to see format increase the amount of themes available. I feel as though what I am using currently is \*almost\* what I want. But there are more things I would like to change but simply cannot. I would love to be able to create custom gallery sections, just like you are able to fully customize other pages (about pages, text sections, contact pages). I would also love to see some slideshow options - I want a rotating image section on my homepage and on my about page!

Review Source

BG

Bianca G.  
Manager  
Consumer Services  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Format"

December 4, 2019

4.0

Overall I’ve had for Matt for years and I’ve never had an issue with a customer support is speedy I haven’t gotten to meet up with any issues I may have

Pros

What I like the most is that it is extremely User-friendly. Setting it up your self explanatory. Nice modern layout

Cons

What I find most difficult is using it on a cellular device. On the computer it is quite easy to maneuver. However on his cell phone somethings need to be changed as far as downloading pictures

Alternatives considered

[Squarespace](https://www.capterra.com/p/143461/Squarespace/)

Review Source

CS

Celine S.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "I love using Format! The themes are clean and they always try to improve their product. "

September 12, 2017

5.0

It's always up to date, and I don't have to worry about trying to code myself. Most importantly, I have a modern, professional site to send potential clients that I can be proud of.

Pros

I really like how they upgrade and add new options continuously. Great support is there when you need it, and fairly quick as well. They added proofing, which was so important for me, and recently added some helpful tools like batch moving within the proofing category. This literally saves me hours of time. The themes are clean and versatile. If I want to have a change, it's really quick and simple to move to another theme. I really like that I can incorporate video, makes for a more interesting site for viewers.

Cons

I really don't have anything I dislike, except that I'm in Toronto, and that's their home base, however, I have to pay in US funds.

Review Source

ET

Emma T.  
Photographer  
Media Production  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Easy to update and great SEO functionality"

September 25, 2017

5.0

Ease of use, easy to understand and modify, great customer service very fast and very clear in their instructions.

Pros

I love its graphic style and easy user interface, it is easy to design your website by quickly reviewing your changes.

Cons

The inability to have different sorts of galleries within one website- I would like to display my images in different ways on different pages. I would also like to be able to link to individual galleries by clicking on a single image as opposed to that just bringing up that single image.

Review Source

AD

ANTONIS D.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "I currently use FORMAT as the main hosting service for promoting my portfolio. "

March 10, 2018

5.0

To promote and manage my Official website as a photographer.

Pros

FORMAT is my main tool for designing and managing my Official website as a photographer. I first tried and used it back in 2012. Since then, I am very satisfied and happy to be able to upload my work and feature my Photography work, as all the tools and design layouts are friendly to use and easy for managing different pages. The performance of the website is really good and I am very satisfied also by the fast response and kind guidance provided by their customer service.

Cons

It took me some time to realize that JPG picture format is running faster and its easier for upload and for loading the page. PNG Image format, especially if they are more than 5MB can cause delays in loading the pages of my portfolio, so I had to re-arrange the formats and re-upload only JPG Images. There isn't something particular that I dislike, maybe if the platform was supporting Flash video files and Intro pages it would be more enjoyable. But overall I am satisfied.

Review Source

JR

Jerry R.  
professional freelance photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "The Format system allowed me to finally concentrate on images, not site maintenance."

September 18, 2017

5.0

I started building websites in 1995, cut and paste using Windows notepad. I worked my way up through HTML, WYSWYG, Dreamweaver, the lot. I finally grew tired of the maintenance, just wanting to do what I do best... photography. Format offered the elegance and simplicity I was looking for after reviewing many different options (Squarespace, Wix, many others). Oddly enough, I am from Toronto, but am now based in Nairobi, Kenya, but wasn't aware Format was in my former hometown around the corner from where I lived. Canadian expertise.

Pros

Clean designs. Easy to upload and curate images. Provides an all-in-one package for any professional. Galleries, blogs, customization of presentation. Easy for viewers to navigate and professional content display. It allows me to spend little time on website updates and more time on creating content. Viewers appreciate the simplicity.

Cons

Not too many cons. Maybe some meta info on the files (file names and dates). Multiple windows would be nice to drag and drop from different pages/galleries, make it easier to move files. And maybe an archive function for protection.

Review Source

CA

Craig A.  
Artist  
Arts and Crafts  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "I am happy that I found Format, and want more people to know how awesome their product is."

September 22, 2017

5.0

So far Format is the only company I've found that has fulfilled my requirements for WYSIWYG site production at a reasonable cost.

Pros

Format is easy to use and offers many clean, non- distracting, and professional templates. The customer service crew is friendly and rapid in response. They want to know real details if you have a complaint. I've never had a problem with my site going offline or getting hacked. It is direct- unlike managing a site through wordpress. They surprise us with free new upgrades...like a store! I thought that was really cool.

Cons

I've been using the redesigned site administrator graphic upgrade and mentioned to customer service that I thought the earlier version was easier to navigate or see, perhaps it was a design/ contrast issue. I'm getting used to the new layout, so in some ways I'm used to the learning curve of a new graphic interface design. Perhaps another visualization option under the new scheme, or a few adjustments available for contrast settings would help.

Review Source

PK

Peter K.  
Artistic Director / Dance Artist  
  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "The overall experience using Format.com is incredible. From A-Z they have every aspect covered!"

September 12, 2017

5.0

Pros

That it's easy to use. I love the professional look of the themes but most importantly, I love the price point! If it was more money - it probably wouldn't be worth it but with the price point now in comparison to SquareSpace and other sites - its the best! I LOVE that it's a Canadian Company!

Cons

It has a few bugs with editing. I also wish the page designs were much for customizable! I wish that each page was able to have a separate "design theme". Sometimes certain galleries and projects deserve or need different designs or gallery viewings! Its limited for the entire website to one theme and type of gallery viewer!

Review Source

JB

Julia B.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Easy to use; Fabulous customer service!"

September 23, 2017

5.0

I've recommended Format to all of my photographer friends. It would be awesome if it were cheaper but I understand all the costs associated with running an interface like this and I'm happy to oblige with the cost!

Pros

Love the simplicity and functionality of the user interface. But my absolute favourite thing is the Format customer service. No waiting on the phone to get help from someone across the world needed... you message them over the website and they get back to you so soon! And they really do listen... if you ever find something you don't like or wish they had, they will most likely include this feature in their next update!

Review Source

CE

Cameron E.  
Artist  
  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Fantastic and amazing website builder that within a few clicks its professional. "

September 12, 2017

5.0

Pros

My friend told me about Format after i needed to find a decent website builder to show my work and they weren't wrong. Three months later of hard building I had the best possible site to show my art and the hits have been amazing. Its easy, fast and so clear and shows all styles for everyone that wants a professional website. Text fonts, tones and unlimited pages and amazing colours and templates. I would not suggest any other website builder then Format.

Cons

I do wish it would also offer a free usage for beginners or students who cannot afford to pay a month charge.

Review Source

Briana G.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 6-12 months

### "Very easy to use and figure out, great ability to customize. Affordable and amazing customer service"

September 12, 2017

5.0

A beautiful website and a one place to do most aspects of what I need from my site.

Pros

The drag and drop is easy to use, and it looks great. You can easily figure out what any problems or elements are, and how to adjust them. There's a easy web pop up to get to customer service if you have any issues. They offer a blog, store, portfolio, client gallery, and all sorts of templates so that you can "do it all". They also helped me with linking to my domain and everything that entailed.

Cons

There was a bit of experimentation necessary to figure out how to properly use the tag system, it's a bit different from others I've used, but easy to fix once I figured it out.

Review Source

AK

Andrew K.  
Creative Director, Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Format is the perfect interface to share my portfolio, proof and deliver images, and shop my store."

September 12, 2017

5.0

Pros

It's designed for creatives and so has all the necessary features built into the design. Presentation matters and my work always looks elegant on the site.

Cons

The easier it is to do complex things on the website, the better. I'm hoping (and maybe it's already happened) that you come out with a template that would allow me to organize all my projects visually on the home page in a way that would allow me to scan through images and also have a quick description. It might already exist and I haven't taken the time to find the right template or modify the code.

Review Source

JV

Jacob V.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Easy to navigate and use, creating pages and adding items really is a breeze."

September 13, 2017

4.0

I got a really sweet portfolio with Format. Enough said!

Pros

The accessibility, navigationsystems, the themes and clean UI/User Interface is what makes Format easy to use. What I do love the most with Format is how easy it is to create the pages you truly dream of.

Cons

Some pages won't show up in the correct order. An example would be: The pages come up alphabetically in the "Pages" menu, but when you want to import images or pick a site to link up, the pages in the menu would show the pages in "oldest to newest" order. Quite confusing at first, but I can get used to it.

Review Source

Joanne G.  
Filmmaker  
Philanthropy  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Very easy to update, smooth navigation and beautiful interface and templates available. "

September 18, 2017

4.0

Pros

The nice templates available, the way editing the content is easy, the format interface easy to navigate.

Cons

I don't think there is a template optimized for a film/video portfolio. Right now, the videos are managed just like photos but they shouldn't be. Also, some templates still don't work that well on mobile.

Review Source

AW

Alex W.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 1-2 years

### "Format for Photographers "

May 17, 2020

5.0

My overall experience with Format has been AMAZING! I have tried using Wix, Adobe Portfolio and SquareSpace for my online portfolio/website, but Format has been the software I Love the Most! Love the different design options and the ability to change colors, typography styles, and sizes.

Pros

I love all the features about Format. First and foremost, I LOVE the different design options depending on what kind of portfolio you want to have and to show to future employers. I love that Format lets you choose different subscriptions plans with different features and additions. I also love that format automatically saves your portfolio as you edit it. It's very easy to share your Format portfolio with others.

Cons

One thing I dislike about Format is that you cannot pay for a 6 month plan. Its either monthly or yearly

Review Source

CL

Chi L.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Portfolio for Artists"

August 8, 2019

5.0

Pros

\- Easy to navigate - Inexpensive - Simple to use - Many templates and themes that fit your style

Cons

To be honest? None. Because the pricing and customer service are better than anywhere else.

Review Source

WC

WISE C.  
Photogtapher  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "When ever I need help their customer service is always there to help"

September 18, 2017

5.0

Clients book me

Pros

I like how I am able to have a sleek website design at an affordable price. And how easy it is to customize it

Cons

There's not much I don't like about it but if I were to say it would be that I wish there were more design options

Review Source

NS

Nousha S.  
Photographer  
Arts and Crafts  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "I'm very happy with Format, being a user for many years!"

September 20, 2017

5.0

It helps me show my work to the world and connect with like minded people. Also helps me with ethics's business side of what I do.

Pros

User friendly, straight forward and clean. Anyone with min understanding of how to create a website can use and navigate it.

Cons

More options in designs and themes. Would love to see some new and exciting options, like when you can just roll the pages down instead of clicking and going to another page and...

Review Source

sS

sarah S.  
photographer  
  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Love the simplicity of use and clean look, but at times there are MAJOR malfunctions."

September 12, 2017

3.0

Pros

I like the easy to use, drag and drop software. I also appreciate the themes as well as the clean overall look of the portfolio website. The shop feature has much to be desired.

Cons

At times there are major malfunctions. For instance, I've had to disable my store because the same image is showing up for every single product. This is an image I initially used months ago as a placeholder, but have since deleted in each listing. When I try to edit the listing, I see the actual product images I have uploaded, but when I preview it on my site, it still shows that random placeholder image from months ago. The thing is I had NO idea that my shop looked like that and for how long? Who knows! It's quite embarrassing and I'm unsure how to proceed.

Review Source

EK

Edgar K.  
Photographer  
Arts and Crafts  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "My experience has been very positive"

September 18, 2017

4.0

Easy to access on multiple platforms and operating systems. Clean and clear design, totally focused on content.

Pros

Clean and focused on content. It's easy to access on multiple platforms. I believe this is the future of online portfolios.

Cons

The templates are functional but not so different between each other. I wish it could be more visual impact without neglecting its functionality - this is why I stick with Format.

Review Source

CK

Chris K.  
Photographer  
Photography  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Great Website, I love the options."

September 13, 2017

5.0

My website drives sales, and allows me to show my work to my customers.

Pros

I like the templates in Format and the ability to be able to use them and customise the different options. I like the way they work on mobiles and different formats.

Cons

I don not like the way the Videos are embedded on either Youtube or Vimeo, I would like them to be native to format. Also better options for Video style formats.

Review Source

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