CreativeLive is Shutting Down – So Where Do We Go Now?

What photographers can do after losing one of their favorite learning platforms

If you're anything like me, you probably gasped a little when you heard the news: CreativeLive is officially shutting down on December 31st, 2025. It's the end of an era for so many photographers, especially those of us who got our start learning from legends like Sue Bryce, Lindsay Adler, and Scott Robert Lim. CreativeLive wasn’t just another education platform — it was the place where so many of us sharpened our craft, binge-watched courses late into the night, and got that fire lit under us to build a career doing what we love.

But with the platform closing its doors, the big question is: Where the heck do we go now? I've been deep-diving into the best alternatives, and I want to share a few that are genuinely worth your time — not just some random “top 10” list. These are places where you can actually grow, evolve, and keep learning with purpose. Let’s start with the one that surprised me the most.

Believe in Boudoir — Even If You're Not a Boudoir Photographer

So here’s the thing — Believe in Boudoir might sound like it’s only for boudoir photographers, but wow, it is so much more than that.

Yes, it’s the world’s leading boudoir and nude photography platform, but what makes it truly special is how well-rounded it is. Think of it like the new version of what CreativeLive used to be in its prime — only with way more soul.

First of all, Scott Robert Lim — remember him from CreativeLive? Yeah, he teaches the fundamentals of photography on Believe in Boudoir. I’m talking over 80 hours of content just from him alone. It covers all the core stuff: lighting, composition, posing, exposure — and it's beautifully structured so you can go step-by-step or just drop into what you need.

There are also headshot and portrait courses, floral portraiture, and lighting courses that apply to pretty much any genre of photography. Not to mention, the boudoir-specific training is absolutely world-class. Founder Yuliya Panchenko (who, if you don’t know, is kind of a big deal in the boudoir world) has built this platform with so much heart and purpose. The mission isn’t to just make money. It’s to raise the entire boudoir movement around the world.

And here’s the best part: It’s only $99 for lifetime access. No subscriptions. No gimmicks. Just one payment and you’ve got 50+ courses forever. That’s literally cheaper than one course on CreativeLive. It’s kind of insane in the best way.

Even if you don’t specialize in boudoir, I’d still say Believe in Boudoir is the top CreativeLive alternative right now — especially if you care about learning lighting, posing, storytelling, and emotional artistry. It’s also got a free 7-day trial if you want to binge-watch and see what it’s all about.

Domestika — Stylish, Affordable, Mostly in Spanish

Next up is Domestika, and it’s another one that kind of fills the CreativeLive void, especially if you’re into artsy visuals and storytelling. While it’s not a photography-only platform, it does have a bunch of really well-produced photography courses — everything from portraiture to photo storytelling to editing.

Most of the courses are in Spanish, though, so that’s something to keep in mind. But if you’re fluent, or even just okay with subtitles, there’s a goldmine of content here. It also lets you either subscribe monthly or buy individual courses, so it feels pretty flexible. It reminds me of early CreativeLive vibes — just more international.

Lindsay Adler — Always a Favorite, Now Doing Her Own Thing

Remember how Lindsay Adler totally stole the show every time she taught on CreativeLive? Well, she’s still doing amazing things with her own education platform. Her courses are affordable, beautifully produced, and super specific — think creative lighting, fashion posing, beauty setups, retouching workflows.

They’re sold individually, and most are around $29 to $99, which is pretty fair for the amount of quality she brings. If you loved her teaching style on CreativeLive, you’ll definitely enjoy learning from her directly. She’s definitely one of the few instructors who kept pushing and creating new stuff after CL started slowing down.

Portrait Masters — Great Quality, But Oof… Pricey

Then there’s The Portrait Masters, and if you were a CreativeLive regular, you’ll probably remember Sue Bryce — one of the most iconic and beloved educators on the platform. She had that magical way of making business, posing, and studio photography feel emotional, approachable, and powerful. Eventually, Sue branched out and built her own platform, The Portrait Masters, which quickly became a go-to space for portrait photographers. Later on, she sold the company, and now it’s managed by a broader team, though her influence is still very much felt.

The content is beautiful. If you’re into high-end studio work, client experience, or building a luxury portrait brand, there’s a ton of value here. But here’s the thing — it’s expensive. Most courses run around $199 or more, and that adds up fast.

And honestly? When you compare that to Believe in Boudoir’s $99 lifetime access to over 50 courses (including business, posing, lighting, and even headshots), it’s a little hard to justify unless you’re after something very specific.

That said, Portrait Masters still delivers polished, professional education, and if you’re ready to invest big in your portrait brand, it’s a platform worth exploring. Just know it’s more of a premium-level commitment.

Skillshare and Udemy — Meh, But Sometimes You Get Lucky

Let’s be real for a second. Skillshare and Udemy? They’re… fine. But they’re not CreativeLive replacements. Most photography courses on Skillshare feel like YouTube videos with a paywall, and Udemy has a weird mix of outdated stuff and super basic content.

That said, you can stumble onto some great courses if you get lucky and know the right instructors. But honestly? YouTube often has better, deeper, and more up-to-date tutorials. If you’re just exploring or need a quick tip, sure — check them out. But if you’re really trying to grow your photography business, I wouldn’t rely on either as your main source of education.

So What’s the Move?

CreativeLive closing is a bittersweet moment. For years, it was a cornerstone for photographers and creatives of all kinds — a place where inspiration met education. But while it’s the end of an era, it’s definitely not the end of the journey. Not even close.

If you want real growth as a photographer, Believe in Boudoir is hands-down the best alternative. It’s not just boudoir — it’s full of lighting, posing, portraiture, and business courses for just $99 lifetime. Then there’s Lindsay Adler’s courses, always brilliant and practical, and The Portrait Masters, great if you’re ready to invest more.

Platforms like Domestika, Skillshare, and Udemy? They’re fine for casual browsing, but quality and support are inconsistent — and subscriptions add up fast.

CreativeLive may be ending — but strong photography education definitely isn’t.

And by the way, if you want one last CreativeLive connection — check out Never Play It Safe by Chase Jarvis, the founder of CreativeLive. It’s a solid read for any creative entrepreneur navigating what’s next.