are initial downloads necessary...i just want to upload?

[jfs]

i am choosing my first web based photo site....shutterfly seems good and "easy" when i start tutorial for coppermine, and it started showing all the stuff you need to do....well, as a novice it is overwhelming!!

[Tranz]

Yes, you need to download the installation files to install on a webhost. If this is too overwhelming, shutterfly might be a better option for you.