P: Information & Discussion regarding the recent (January 2025) Photography Plan changes
Hello Adobe Team,
First, I want to express my appreciation for the value I’ve received as a subscriber to the Photography Plan. It’s been an essential part of my creative journey, even as an amateur user. The accessibility and affordability of the $9.99/month plan played a significant role in my decision to choose Adobe over other options.
With the announced price changes, I understand that Adobe continues to invest in powerful AI features and other advancements that undoubtedly enhance Photoshop and Lightroom. However, I’d like to offer some feedback and comparisons to competitors that I hope will be helpful as you consider customer experiences and retention:
1. Competitor Pricing and Features:
• Affinity Photo: A one-time purchase of $69.99 offers a robust editing platform. For many amateur users, this presents a cost-effective alternative without ongoing fees.
• ON1 Photo RAW: At $7.99/month, it includes AI tools like culling and auto photo enhancement, which are incredibly valuable for streamlining workflows.
• Skylum Luminar Neo: At $8.25/month or a one-time fee of $149, its AI-driven editing features, such as Sky Replacement and auto enhancements, are compelling for photographers.
These tools might not offer the same depth as Adobe’s ecosystem but provide unique advantages that appeal to hobbyists and professionals alike.
2. Concerns About Entry-Level Pricing:
The 20GB plan has always been a fantastic entry point for creatives like myself. With the price increase, I worry that newer users, particularly those exploring photography as a hobby, may find themselves turning to alternatives that require less upfront investment or commitment.
3. Treating Loyal Users Like Partners:
As a long-time subscriber, I view my relationship with Adobe much like a committed partnership. In a healthy relationship, both parties grow together, and changes are made with mutual respect and consideration. While I appreciate the introduction of new features, such as the upcoming AI-powered culling tool and Generative Remove, the increased pricing feels like a unilateral decision that impacts loyal users. In a partnership, significant changes are discussed and navigated together to ensure both sides continue to benefit and feel valued.
4. Storage Considerations:
Many users, like me, don’t heavily rely on the storage features. I would appreciate an option to maintain access to Photoshop and Lightroom without the push for additional storage that isn’t utilized.
5. Loyalty Programs:
A loyalty reward system or discounted upgrade paths for long-term subscribers could go a long way toward making the transition smoother and ensuring that dedicated users feel appreciated.
I share this feedback as a long-time fan of Adobe and its products. My hope is that these pricing changes can be balanced with features and incentives that continue to make Adobe the go-to choice for creatives of all levels.
Thank you for taking the time to read and consider this. I look forward to seeing how Adobe continues to innovate and support its user base.
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