I started out with a Brother PE-150 and bought PEDesign 3 on eBay. Since you've started with a Brother machine, too, stay with the Brother software. That being said, a couple of years ago I found Generations Digitizing software on eBay at an incredible price ($600 vs $1800 retail). I still use the PED 3, but only to write my Generations digitized designs to the card. Today I received the newest issue of Designs in Machine Embroidery. Inside is their latest software survey which compares not only digitizing software, but also editing software. Pick up a copy to study. I really like Generations; it is easy to learn by following the manual, there is a good user's group to learn more, and the features are incredible. And yes, you can digitize photos, too! I had my grandkids draw pictures that I digitized and put on t-shirts for them.

HTH,
Laurielu

Thank you for your reply. I will pick up that magazine today. Lord knows I need to study about this. I don't want anything too complex, hopefully then it costs less LOL.
I may have to wait until next years tax refund to get Generations. I keep looking on eBay and Craig's list to try and find a used reader/writer box. I'm so anxious to try something new with my machine since I already did the programmed designs!

Checking out for reader/writer box on ebay is worth but try on amazon also. Thing is you have decided 30 years after again sewing and emb... you have patience...I have put some videos here which may give you some ideas.

Here is a link that might be useful: Instructional Embroidery Videos