We've simplified our subscriptions for 2026, and one of the questions we're hearing most is: "What's the difference between the Photo Library and EasyMaker?"

The short answer: Photo Library gives you images to use in your own tools. EasyMaker lets you create complete Easy Read documents in our platform. Some people need one, some need the other, and some want both.

Here's how to decide.

Choose the Photo Library if...

You already have a workflow you like. Maybe you design in Word, PowerPoint, InDesign, or something else entirely. You want high-quality Easy Read images you can drop into your own documents and control exactly how they appear.

The Photo Library gives you that freedom. Download images in PNG or JPG, choose your resolution, and use them wherever you need them.

We're also building tools specifically for people who want more control over their images. The most recent addition is DateMaker - a tool that generates custom images for dates and times. Dates underpin so much Easy Read (appointments, deadlines, events), and now you can create exactly the image you need rather than hunting for something close enough.

Every image comes with alt text descriptions and summaries already written, so you've got accessible text ready to go. You can also control safe search settings and switch off AI-generated content entirely if that's your preference.

The trade-off? You're responsible for your own document design and accessibility compliance. If you know what you're doing, that's fine. If you'd rather not worry about it, read on.

Choose EasyMaker if...

You want to create Easy Read documents without wrestling with Word's quirks or worrying whether your PDF is actually accessible.

Start however works best for you. Upload a document, point to a website, paste in some text, or just describe what you need - and let the AI assistant generate a first draft. From there you can tweak and refine until it's right. Or if you prefer full control from the start, build it yourself block by block - adding headings, pictures and text elements exactly where you want them.

Here's where it gets interesting. You create your document once, then share it however your readers need it. A4 PDF for printing? Yes. A web version they can read on any device? Yes. A mobile-friendly layout that works properly on a phone? Yes. An audio version they can listen to? Yes. All from the same document, all kept in sync. No more maintaining four different versions of the same information.

And you don't need to think about accessibility compliance. EasyMaker handles the technical stuff - heading structure, alt text, reading order, tagged PDFs - so you can focus on what you're actually trying to say.

Can't find the right image in the library? Generate a new one. EasyMaker's AI image tool creates clean, realistic pictures designed specifically for Easy Read - no clutter, no distractions. It's free and unlimited for all subscribers.

How they compare

Or get both

If you need images for other design work and want to create documents in EasyMaker, our Bundle subscription gives you both at 40% off the EasyMaker price.

This works well for teams where some people design in InDesign or Word while others use EasyMaker - everyone gets what they need under one subscription.

Still not sure?

Have a look at our pricing page where you can use the "Help me choose" tool to find the right option. Or just get in touch - we're happy to talk it through.