There is a huge range of photo editing solutions on the market that go far beyond the filters and tweaks that mobile apps offer. Whether you are a professional, enjoy photography on the weekends, or you want to dip your toe into the field, you’re not limited to Adobe Photoshop. Some types of image editing software focus on traditional, typical changes: exposure, contrast, grain levels, bokeh shallow depth blur effects, and color changes. Others now implement basic machine learning (ML) to try and automate editing flows, and some are specifically designed for creatives who want to combine art and photography. To reduce professional workloads or to bring hobbyist photography to life, our top picks for photo editing software are worth considering.
Buyer’s Guide
Also: Adobe Photoshop is one of the most well-known image editing and manipulation software options on the market, and there’s a reason for that; it’s advanced and offers a wide variety of tools and options for image creation. Photoshop can be used for color adjustment, resizing, masking, layering, and more. Subscriptions are offered on a monthly basis and can be combined with other Adobe applications, such as Lightroom. Pros:
An extensive library of tools, brushesPlugin compatibility
Cons:
A steep learning curve
Subscriptions are offered on a monthly basis and can be combined with other Adobe applications, such as Photoshop. Pros:
Easy editing workflow managementCan be bridged with Photoshop
Cons:
The basic presets included are limited, so you may need to create extra presents yourself or purchase othersYou’ll want a larger screen if possible, as the zoom function can be frustrating
Pros:
User friendly Plugins available for Photoshop, Lightroom, and Apple PhotosmacOS and Windows support
Cons:
Not as advanced as other options on the marketNo subscription option is available
Pros:
Affordable licensingiPhone image support recently added
Cons:
Upgrade required to access ParticleShop and Artistic EffectsSome features are restricted to Ultimate 2022, including highlight reels
Pros:
Speed editing optionsStrong color processingRAW file support
Cons:
High price for a one-off license (although subscriptions are available, $24/month)Cheaper plans lock you in with specific camera formats
Pros:
Ease of useHundreds of effects to choose fromActive user community
Cons:
Only available on iOSSome tools need further development
Adobe Photoshop free tutorialPixlr.comCanva
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