New Site is Updated...!!!

[Will Raybourn]

Hi all,
I just posted my new site today. First, I am not done with it be any means, probably a few more days of work, but I wanted to get some feedback from the members here on what you think about it. I am still in design mode, so that is why I'm asking.
Something to note...I opted to not use traditional galleries right now...This will more than likely change and I will add them, but I am trying to see what people think of using slideshow galleries...a test, so to speak. Anyway, I'm sure that there are little things I haven't caught yet, but again, just looking for that 3rd, 4th and 30th set of eyes :lol:
Feed back is greatly appreciated...

For those that saw my previous, personal site, this is a radical change, as I broke away from my previous business partner and am trying to start over from scratch...so, what was once a site showing my personal work, is now a business site...let me know what ya'll think.

http://www.willraybourn.com

[JamesB]

well the site over all looks very good and easy to navigate. However a few tweeks may be needed on the layout and text for a few of the pages.

Im using Firefox web browser (ver 1.0.4)

1. The main page bordered graphic is too far to the right. maybe bring it back to the left 50 pixels or so.

2. on the Gallery page the bridal graphic is too close to the menu list, maybey move it 15 to 20 pixels to the right or so

3. the about page needs the graphics and text to come left a little

4. Pricing page, maybe changing some fonts to a little bit small font (the large bold text only). This page also needs to be more centered i have to scroll right to see the stuff on the right hand side of the page.

5. Add ons page looks great

6. Prints page - looks great

7. Contact page - need to bring the text to center or more left

[JamesB]

I just noticed some thing else. when I am at the main page and I start clicking on menu items, some pages have more menu items than other pages. Not suf if this was your intention or not

James

[shoyles]

I use Mozilla Firefox and cannot see your site without downloading a "plugin". I'm not sure if people using explorer have the same issue but here is my 2-cents from a Firefox user.

It has been my experience that people will hesitate to download something to their computer if they can avoid it. You just never know when a plugin will corrupt your computer, change your settings or install unwanted adware. You will lose a certain number of potential clients because they will not want to risk their PC's to visit your site. Again, this might not be an issue for Exporer users.

[LoungeLizard]

I like it. Simple, to the point, easy to navigate.

Overall, well done.

[LowSpark]

Nice website...

I use internet explorer and everything seems to work fine


comments:
1> I agreee with above comment, not sure that I want to download a program to view a slideshow...

2> webpage is built a bit wide for my taste. I normally do not use full width viewing on my 19" monitor, but needed it if I wanted to view your page and keep the buttons in view.

making the page self centering with a min. width would be a better option


my .02

[Will Raybourn]

Thanks for the comments...hopefully more will keep coming. I did develop the page on a higher resolution, but I did check it on my laptop and didn't find it too cumbersome to navigate.
As for the plug-ins, I noticed two things when designing it. One, SP2 will block the active X on the page, but that is normal with any page using activeX unless you have allowed it. As for the gallery plugin, I intentionally put a disclaimer to accept the plugin from Photodex....
While I understand that this may deter some, I don't believe it will all that bad. But, I think I will add a link to the PhotoDex website so that people can see exactly what they are installing.
Again, thanks for the comments, and hopefully I'll get some more.

[markperez]

I have generally the same comments as everyone else. I think things need to move to the left just a little bit. Also I am at 1024x768 and on the pricing page the pictures are going off the left side of the screen so that I have to scroll to see all of the picture.

[briantsai]

Will, like others have mentioned about the plugin, the PSG slideshow is also going to be a problem for Mac users. They wouldn't be able to see it at all. For me, PSG plugin crashed my IE.

Brian

[Will Raybourn]

OK...first, THANKS for the input everyone, that why I put this post in here...I have adjusted the site for optimal viewing at 1024x768...I think that this should eliminate the biggest problem that was noticed. As for the slideshows, I added a bit of text with a link to the plug-ins website...I hope that will eliminate people's fears of installing the plugin.
As for the galleries...I haven't updated them yet, but I intend to offer both a slideshow link and a traditional gallery link...just haven't gotten around to it yet. If you get a chance, check it out and let me know if there are any other issues noticed. Again, thanks everyone for the feedback...I sure do appreciate it.

[WLPelzmann]

Will,
I use IE and WILL NOT download any plugins to view a site. Just not worth the risk, regardless of any assurances. So, adding a traditional gallery link, as you plan, is a good idea. Other than that, I think your site is very well done.

[Elsaspet]

I think your website looks fantastic! The photos are wonderful and everything works quite quickly. I like the fact that you have a FAQ page and pricing right out there. I think it all works very well together.
Fantastic job and wishing you all the BEST!
Cindy

[MyKey]

I like your site also, very easy to get around, which I think is the best thing about it. The only negative I have, which is not that big of one right now is you dont have enough images from different events on there. But I think the foundation you have is great!!!

Good luck my forum friend and if I find myself in San Anton I will make sure to let you know!

[Will Raybourn]

Thanks for the comments...I am still in the process of adding more and more to the site, so there will be more photos added soon...***so much to do***
As for the comment on the plug-ins...I can understand what you are saying. However, I also feel that by providing a link to the manufacturer's site is enought to prove the install harmless. While I understand that some will not do so regardless of assurance, I can live with that. The internet and our technology allow of to reach clients from many new and unique ways, and this is why I chose to go that route. But, I will be adding the standard galleries soon, so rest assured, I will not be leaving anyone out, per se...
Again, I really appreciate the feedback...

[Will Raybourn]

ok, Mike, got some more stuff out there... :lol:

actually, concerning the ProShow slideshows, I saw the other post and put some of my (and the wife's) shows out on the site tonight. The transitions are slower, as I described in my reply to your post...thought you might be interested in seeing them.