Online proofing explained: how clients choose their photos

Online proofing is the process of showing clients a preview of every photo from a shoot so they can choose their favourites — before you spend time editing. Instead of guessing which images a client wants, you let them tell you, then you only retouch the ones they've actually chosen.

How a proofing gallery works

A proofing gallery is a private online gallery of watermarked previews (proofs). The workflow is simple and happens in two steps:

1. You upload the proofs. Every image from the session is added to a private gallery and automatically watermarked, so it's safe to share.
2. The client chooses. They open the gallery, browse the proofs, and pick their favourites — adding extras beyond their package if they want more.
3. You deliver the finished photos. You edit only the chosen images, upload the final versions, and the client downloads them in full resolution, watermark-free.

This "two-step" flow — proofs to choose from, then finished photos to download — is the heart of a modern client gallery, and it's exactly how LensQuay works.

Why proofing saves you time

Without proofing, photographers often edit an entire shoot and hope they've picked the images the client wanted. With proofing you edit only what's selected, which can cut a wedding or portrait edit dramatically. You also stop the awkward back-and-forth of "which ones did you want again?" — the selection is recorded for you.

Why clients prefer it

Clients like proofing because they feel in control. They see everything, choose what matters to them, and there are no surprises at delivery. Watermarked proofs also reassure them that their images are protected until they're paid for.

Protecting your work during proofing

Because proofs are shared before payment, the watermark matters. A good proofing watermark is tiled across the whole image rather than tucked in a corner, which makes it far harder to crop or remove. On LensQuay you can watermark proofs with your studio name, the LensQuay mark, or your own logo — and the finished downloads are always delivered clean.

The bottom line

Online proofing turns "here are all your photos" into "choose the ones you love, and I'll perfect them." It's faster for you, better for the client, and it's built into every LensQuay gallery.