How to replace iPhoto?

This post is probably a clear candidate for cons, but still, I would like to learn from experienced Mac'ovodov how you organized your photos. The first thing that came to my attention was iPhoto. But I don’t like its kind of bulkiness, slowdown (it applies the applied filters and improvements every time I open the photo) and the system for storing photos on the hard drive. What do you use? Share best practice. Thank you in advance for your attention and advice! :)