Photography and graphic design in the modern sense cannot do without image editing. If you have the right editing software, your photos can look different.
When it comes to photo correction, brightness adjustment and filter application, as well as removing spots on the face or other parts of the photo, photo editing becomes a helpful tool to realize one’s imagination.
For both amateurs and experienced designers, choosing a suitable computer program that can edit images is sometimes quite complicated as there are many options available on the market. Here are important considerations that will allow you to make informed decisions when using the best image editing software.
Top image editing software for beginners
1. HitPaw FotorPea
If you’re looking for powerful AI photo editing software to make your pictures look professional, choose HitPaw FotorPea. With just one click, FotorPea is capable Improve your images with adjusted lighting, sharpened details and rich colors. It is the best photo editing software for PC.
HitPaw FotorPea Optimizes your photo editing workflow with the intuitive interface and intelligent AI algorithms. The software automatically analyzes your images using AI and makes them look like professionally edited photos. Additionally, HitPaw FotorPea improves old pixelated and low-resolution photos using artificial intelligence; They’re even rescaled to 8K resolution for crystal clear clarity.
Key Features
- AI photo enhancer to improve clarity and color
- AI image generator to create stunning works of art
- Passport photo maker
- AI portrait generator with natural results
- Object removal from photos
Advantages
- Easy to use one-click extension
- Upscales images to HD/2K/4K/8K resolution
- Restores old and blurry photos
- Available as a Photoshop plugin
Disadvantages
- The free version has limited export
- Need higher system requirements
2. Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is the industry-standard photo editing software used by professionals worldwide. With over 30 years in development, Photoshop offers unparalleled image editing capabilities.
Key Features
- Layers for non-destructive editing
- Advanced selection tools like Magic Wand
- Filters, adjustment layers and blending modes
- Content-focused tools for seamless edits
- Camera Raw for processing RAW images
Advantages
- Industry standard with broad community support
- Powerful tools for endless creative possibilities
- Ideal for print, web and layered compositions
- Integrates with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps
Disadvantages
- Expensive monthly subscription fee
- Steep learning curve for new users
3. Adobe Lightroom
Adobe Lightroom is a photo organization and editing software that focuses on developing RAW images. It offers a streamlined workflow for batch editing large amounts of photos.
Key Features
- Catalog system for managing large libraries
- Develop a module for non-destructive RAW processing
- Presets for applying edits to photo stacks
- Integrated printing and sharing features
- Sync with Lightroom mobile apps
Advantages
- Ideal for managing and processing large quantities
- User-friendly interface and quick edits
- Seamless workflow from import to export
- Affordable subscription prices
Disadvantages
- Less robust for creative compositing or manipulation
- Importing into Photoshop is required for advanced editing
4. GIMP
GIMP is a free, open-source image editing software with advanced features that rival Photoshop. Ideal for beginners and professionals alike. It proves to be the best photo editing software for Mac.
Key Features
- Layers and masks for non-destructive editing
- Extensive filters, brushes and effects
- Scripting and automation via Python plugins
- Supports third-party plug-ins for additional functionality
Advantages
- Completely free and open source
- Available for Windows, Mac and Linux
- Great community support for tutorials/resources
- Powerful features comparable to Photoshop
Disadvantages
- Steep learning curve for new users
- It lacks some newer features of paid software
- Less frequent updates compared to paid options
5. Capture One
Capture One is a professional RAW photo editor designed for high-end retouching and image editing. It is popular with commercial, fashion and studio photographers.
Key Features
- Powerful RAW processing tools
- Advanced color editing features
- Layers, masks and selection tools
- Connected capture and robust asset management
- High quality raw file rendering
Advantages
- Excellent processing and quality of RAW files
- Great customizability for workflows
- Excellent color correction tools
- Seamless studio tethered shoot
Disadvantages
- Expensive licensing model
- Steep learning curve
6. Skylum Luminar Neo
Luminar Neo is an AI-powered creative photo editor for photographers of all skill levels. It offers rapid automated improvements powered by artificial intelligence.
Key Features
- One-click AI photo enhancement
- AI sky swapping and portrait tools
- Over 70 filters and effects
- Layer support for compositing
- Plugin support for Lightroom
Advantages
- Easy to use automated editing
- Great special effects filters
- Affordable individual or subscription pricing
- Good selection of manual editing tools
Disadvantages
- Limited support for RAW photos
- Less advanced editing features
7. Affinity photo
Affinity Photo is a fast, affordable Photoshop alternative for creative photo editing and compositing.
Key Features
- Layers, masks, blending modes and other Photoshop-like tools
- RAW processing and HDR merging
- Retouching tools like inpainting brushes
- Video editing features
- No subscription – one-time payment
Advantages
- Powerful tools that rival Photoshop
- Great performance and speed
- Affordable one-time cost
- Available for Windows, Mac, iPad
Disadvantages
- Smaller user community than Photoshop
- Limited asset management features
Tips for choosing the right software
There are several key factors to consider when choosing image editing software:
- Assess your needs – Determine whether you need software for professional or casual use. Professional photographers require more advanced tools than amateur photographers.
- Budget – There are free options like GIMP as well as paid software like Photoshop. Evaluate your budget constraints.
- Trials – Most paid software offers free trials so you can test out features before committing. Use these.
- Community and Support – An active user community is invaluable for tutorials, resources, and troubleshooting. Prioritize software with strong communities.
- Ease of Use – The learning curve varies depending on the software. Choose an intuitive interface that matches your level of expertise.
- Features – Make sure the software has the editing tools and features you need. List your must-have features.
By carefully considering these factors, you can find the best photo editing software for your individual needs and budget. Don’t hesitate to try several options first.
Diploma
There are many good photo editing programs for different needs and budgets. Experts have a number of options available such as Photoshop, Lightroom, GIMP and Affinity Photo, while Luminar Neo and HitPaw FotorPea are two of them AI improvement Enabled photo editors for newbies.
Try several photo editing programs before choosing one. Let us know which photo editing program you chose and whether it meets your needs or not. Your feedback allows us to help others find the right tool.
