If you're a Graphic Designer or Photographer, you're probably familiar with Adobe Creative Suite and the Adobe Creative Cloud. Adobe Creative Suite is a group of software programs for design, web, and video professionals. 

The Creative Cloud All Apps subscription gives you access to all of the Adobe Creative Suite programs, as well as additional cloud-based services. The Adobe Photography plan is a subset of the Creative Cloud that includes Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, and Photoshop

It can be difficult to decipher which is best for your needs when looking at these two plans. In this article, we'll break down the key differences and similarities between the Creative Cloud All Apps subscription and the Adobe Photography plan to help you decide which is best for your creative goals.

Learn About the Software Offered in These Subscriptions

Adobe Photoshop

One of the most prevalent image editors, Photoshop is used for crafting layouts, touch-ups, illustrations, and web design.

Adobe Lightroom

Lightroom is a management and editing program that helps you organize your images and make global changes quickly. 

Lightroom Classic

Classic is a desktop-based version of Lightroom with more advanced features than the CC version. 

Adobe Illustrator

A vector graphics editing program used for logos, illustrations, and infographics.

Adobe Premiere Pro

Professionals use this video editing software to edit movies, TV shows, and commercials.

Adobe After Effects

This software is used to create special effects and motion graphics for video projects.

What is the Adobe Creative Cloud?

The Adobe Creative Cloud is a cloud-based subscription service that gives users access to the Adobe Creative Suite of programs, as well as any additional cloud-based services. 

With the Creative Cloud subscription, you have access to all of the Adobe Creative Suite programs, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects. In addition, you also get access to cloud-based services such as Adobe XD, Adobe Stock, and Adobe Fonts. 

The Creative Cloud subscription is available for both individuals and businesses. The individual subscription starts at $54.99/month, and the business subscription starts at $84.99/month.

What is the Adobe Photography Plan?

The Adobe Photography plan is a subset of the Creative Cloud that includes Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, and Photoshop. 

The Photography plan is available for individuals, with the subscription starting at $9.99 per month.

Adobe Creative Cloud vs. Adobe Photography Plan: The Main Differences

The main difference between these two subscriptions is the number of programs included. You have access to all 20+ Adobe Creative Suite programs with the Creative Cloud All Apps subscription. The Adobe Photography plan only includes Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, and Photoshop. 

Another key difference is that the Creative Cloud subscription gives you access to additional cloud-based services like Adobe Fonts and Adobe Stock. With the Photography plan, you don't get these extras. 

When it comes to price, the Creative Cloud is slightly more expensive than the Photography plan. The Creative Cloud All Apps starts at $54.99/mo, while the Photography plan is $9.99/mo. 

Additional Subscription and Customization Options

In addition to these plans, there are some options you can use to ensure you have access to the software you need.

If you're looking for a subscription plan that includes just one software option, consider the Creative Cloud Single App plan. The Creative Cloud Single App plan allows you to choose one program from the Adobe Creative Suite and prices range depending on the type of software needed. For example, Lightroom is available as a single app for $9.99/month or a one-time annual payment of $119.88.

Which Plan is Right For Me?

The most appropriate plan for you depends on your needs and budget. If you need access to the full Adobe Creative Suite, then the Creative Cloud subscription is the way to go. 

If you only need Lightroom and Photoshop, then the Adobe Photography plan will probably be a better fit. And if you're on a set budget, you can always use Lightroom as a standalone program on the Single App plan.

Still not sure which Adobe plan is right for you? Adobe offers free trials of both the Creative Cloud and the Adobe Photography plan, so you can try them before you commit to a subscription. 

Important Facts to Remember About These Photo Management Tools

  • These programs offer cloud-based backup and sync features
  • Storage will vary depending on the plan you choose
  • The subscription plans are recurring, so you'll need to cancel if you don't want to continue using the program
  • Adobe offers free trials of both the Creative Cloud and Adobe Photography plan
  • "All Apps" plan is great for those who need access to the full Adobe Creative Suite, while "Single App" plans are more affordable for those who only need one program.

How Can I Learn Photoshop?

If you're looking to learn Photoshop or build on your current skill set, consider taking Photoshop classes from a trusted provider like Noble Desktop. These hands-on classes will teach you everything you need to know about Photoshop, from the basics to more advanced features and techniques. Photoshop classes are available live online or in-person for those located near New York City, though the curriculum for both options is the same. 

Signing up for the Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp is an excellent way to gain an in-depth understanding of the software and the tools most commonly used by creative professionals. This option is also available live online and provides students an opportunity to build a portfolio of work they can use during their job search.

Photographers that want to build on their fundamental design skills should consider signing up for the graphic design certificate course. This is a great starting point for those new to the field or those who want to build on their current skillset. Students will learn how to use several different programs, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

Now that you have a better understanding of the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription and the Adobe Photography plan, you can decide which one is right for you.