A system for creating image and text-based projects includes a server and software running from physical medium providing a first function for establishing a client-server connection between the server and a computing appliance, a second function for initiating a data session with a user, a third function for the detecting user activity relative to uploading of, or permitting access to one or more photos to the server, a fourth function for accessing copies of the photos before or during upload and compressing them at a pre-designated resolution suitable for printing, a fifth function for transferring the photo copies in the compressed state to the server, a sixth function for decompressing and displaying the one or more photos ahead of receipt of the photos accessed, and a seventh function for replacing the displayed photo or photos with the one or more photos upon receipt thereof.