I was just wondering why there is a difference in prices on framing direct from mpix vs zenfolio.

It seem to me that the cost for framing on zen is around 15%  (some more, some less) higher than it is on zenfolio.  Isn't zen already getting a service fee?  Why the additional cost?  It looks like the print prices are the same (except maybe volume discount) but frame pricing is higher.

The only reason this comes up is I was working on designing a brochure to give customers.  I wanted to list the options available with pricing.  I contacted mpix and they gave me the ok to use the images of the frames they have on their site in my brochure.  That's when I noticed the pricing was off.  I believe the pricing was off for all the mounting options as well like backing, glass, or mats.  Can someone explain this?  I might just be better of not offering framing on zen, and tell customers to place the order direct with me if they want frames. 14% on a 20x30 frame is enough to ask what gives?

no answers yet?

Frame Size       Mpix Price     Zenfolio Price      Zenfolio Additional Markup

5x7                    $14                 $16.30                  16.4%

8x10                  $18                 $20.50                  13.8%

16x20                $70                 $77.30                  10.4%

20x30                $95                 $108.25                 13.9%

Zenfolio charges the same total. Backboards are required for every frame order. Mpix adds the cost of the backboard during checkout while Zenfolio includes backboards in the costs of the frame. So, if you go through the entire checkout process at Mpix.com and the required backboard is added in the shopping cart you will see that the total is the same as what Zenfolio charges.

It is worth mentioning that it is never our intention to cheat you in any way. One of our main goals at Zenfolio is to help you run your business smoothly so that you can focus on what you enjoy the most; photography. We truly have your best interests at heart.

Thank you for clearing this up for me. I see now that the default single weight backboard is added for small prints and double weight for larger prints. Glass automatically added if mat is selected.  I'm sorry for sounding like a complete a-hole.  I just couldn't figure out why there was a difference and didn't take the time to place an order on each site and see exactly what was going on.

Thanks Laura!