[ELAY]

This post is just to relate my experience. I do not really want to wade into the which site is better debate, both because it seems (rather improbably) to be arousing some passion, and because I am not sure that I am qualified to comment.

I use flickr to post stuff here (mostly because that's how I learned -- thanks Nicole). If I were more into the social stuff I might use it more, but I get that out of my system here.

I use SmugMug for storage and for most sharing, for a few reasons.

First, and this isn't unique to SmugMug I realize, I can upload and store full-size originals there. This means I can use it as online backup, and also means that I can direct others there to download originals for their own use. I take pics for neighbours, friends, my kids' sports teams, and it's great to be able to put the photos there and point to them.

Second, I find their gallery system quick, easy and intuitive. I can stick passwords on galleries for different people very easily.

Third, they do a very nice job printing. Again that's great for me, but also great for aforementioned neighbours, friends etc., who can just order whatever they want within SmugMug.

On the con side, the name is stupid (though my wife has uncharitably observed that it suits me).

(As for the forums at SmugMug, I go in there occasionally, but I find this forum a lot more congenial.)

EL