To Flash or Not to Flash… opinions needed!

Ok… I’ve struggled with this decision for a while, so I need my blog readers to help me out here…

I’ve always been attracted to those fancy Flash websites that most photographers have out there.  However, I’m a fan of being to easily navigate through a website, for instance being to press the “Back” button and not be redirected back to another website.  The music also irks me, although I like having music for just my slideshows.  Finally, even though my site seems to be boring, I love to be different and stand out from the rest.

Now, the pros of the Flash sites… they are sure pretty.  I love how my images can be huge and it doesn’t take forever to load, like it would on my HTML site.  I feel it could make me appear more professional.  And, the slideshows are built in right there to the Flash site.

I love my clientele and would fear losing the wonderful people I work with if I transitioned to a more generic Flash website.  However, most photographers out there use some kind of Flash website.  So, would it really make a huge difference if most every other photographer out there uses that same kind of programming for their website?

If you are having trouble visualizing a good example of a Flash website, click here to see one.  This is actually the one I’m contemplating purchasing from their website.  Another thing I should mention is that the websites are fully customizable, so I can choose colors, background, text, etc.

Here’s where you come in… I need opinions!  I really want to hear the opinions of the people who follow my blog to see what your thoughts are regarding this possible transformation.  I have created a poll over on the sidebar where you can cast your vote about transitioning my website.  You can also leave a comment as well.  I plan to make a decision by the weekend, so if you want to vote, vote now!

Thanks so much for your help!

Jackie