SMS capabilities are currently available to North American customers only. We look forward to implementing GDPR-compliant SMS functionality for our UK customers in the future.Table of contents
Overview
One-time messages (formerly called “Newsletters”) let you share special announcements or promotions with your customers. Like automated campaigns (communication profiles), they support customer targeting and dynamic placeholders. However, while automated campaigns are triggered automatically, one-time messages are sent manually.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to send a SMS one-time message. For instructions on email messages, see the article on how to send a newsletter email.
Set up SMS functionality
Before sending SMS messages, you must complete your SMS registration. This is typically done during your account setup. If not, follow the steps on how to register for SMS.
Create your message
You can send one-time messages using either of these two paths:
 |  | |
| A. From the Communication tab within a photo job [Classic Interface: From the Selling tab within a photo job] Sends a message to customers of that specific job. | B. From the One-Time Message tab on the Communication page [Classic Interface: From the Newsletters tab on the Customers page] Sends a message to all selected customers across your account. |
On the One-Time Message page, you’ll see the following settings:
- Name: Choose an internal name that helps identify the campaign later.
- Recipients: Click Add/Edit to select recipients using filters like job, status, year, or album.
- Sending time: You can send immediately or schedule it. Avoid late-night sends to prevent deliverability issues.
⚠ Important: You must still click Send Newsletter after scheduling to trigger the message. - Design: Create the message content. Click the SMS tab and enter your text.
You can use placeholders to personalize messages. SMS templates are not currently available.
There is a 150-character warning for older devices, which may split the message. Modern phones typically send it as one. Regardless, keep your message concise.
Preview and send your message
Click Save and preview newsletter to view the final message with placeholders. Make any edits, then send when ready.
FAQs
Can I send to multiple jobs or albums?
Yes, you can filter recipients using multiple jobs, years, or album groups during the recipient selection step.
Are there SMS templates available?
No, SMS templates are not currently supported. Each message must be created manually.
What if I forget to click ‘Send Newsletter’?
The message will not be sent, even if scheduled. Be sure to click the button after setting everything up.
Takeaway
One-time SMS messages help you communicate directly with customers, whether for a single photo job or your full list. With personalized placeholders and scheduling flexibility, you can send clear, timely updates and promotions.