jAlbum

jAlbum gives you the ability to process your photos into albums that can then be published online, either on your own Web site or on the jAlbum site. Once you've installed the app, you can quickly add your own photos, and then create albums to share. The program does the rest.

Pros

Straightforward interface: This program features a clearly laid-out interface, with tools arrayed around the main window to make them easy to find and access. Buttons at the top of the screen allow you to add photos, videos, or folders. You can then edit your images and add captions with just a few clicks.

Pricing structures: This app provides you with access to a service through the jAlbum website. If you have your own website, you can upload the albums you create directly there. But if you don't, you can use jAlbum to host your albums. Depending on which of these options you prefer and whether you want to use the service for personal or commercial purposes, there are different fee schedules available. This ensures that you're only paying for exactly what you need.

Cons

Setup: Setting up your account can be a little tricky at first. Tutorials assume that you already have an account; but when you download the app, you can immediately begin creating albums. What you do with them next, may not be immediately clear to inexperienced users, and the Help file isn't much help with this. But there is an Upload button at the bottom of the screen, and clicking that starts you down the road toward creating your online account and managing your albums.

Bottom Line

jAlbum is a useful and convenient service that, once it's set up, gives you great flexibility when it comes to publishing and sharing your photos. The flexible price structures allow you to pay for just what you need.

Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of jAlbum 12.1.