Adobe Photoshop’s status as the industry standard is probably what makes it also so well known as the most expensive photo editing tools on the market. The Photoshop Creative Suite provides pretty much everything needed to perform photo editing and manipulation. The only problem for many is that it is incredibly expensive. Depending on experience level, users sometimes have problems with the interface and its overall compatibility.
No matter your reason, there are quite a few other programs that are an affordable and great substitute to Photoshop. Here is a list of ten alternatives to the high-end program that still have the professional tools needed and are integrated into a fast and efficient program.
1. GIMP (GNU image manipulation program)
When it comes to getting the most out of a photo editing software, GIMP has all the features you need to create a variety of stunning effects. In terms of navigation, it has almost identical tools featured in Photoshop and allows them to be accessed with ease. Not only is it compatible with a variety of operating systems, but best of all, it is an open source program; which means it can be download for absolutely free.
2. Paint.NET
This is a Windows only based photo editor. It is great for those who want a basic and easy program to use. While may not come with the same bells and whistles others do, this software is in no way less efficient. Having a decent variety of simple user friendly features makes it perfect for photographers who prefer to focus more on taking photos than editing them. Also an open source program, it is simple to download for free.
3. PhotoLine
A Mac only based editing program that provides you with a wealth of features designed to make editing and fine tuning your photos a breeze. It’s not the most attractive of interfaces; nevertheless, it is user friendly enough to make the job easy. While not incredibly well known at the moment, it is definitely a program to keep in mind when it comes to simple and reliable photo editing programs.
4. Splashup
Splashup is a internet browser based photo editing program. No downloads are required; just “Jump Right In”, as their slogan goes. It features a wealth of popular tools, features and applications available. However, it is rather advanced so for the less expierenced user there is Splashup Lite. Best of all, both versions allow you to share finished photos to websites, such as Flickr, Facebook, Picasa and more, without a hitch.
5. FotoFlexer
Another one that runs through an internet browser, it is the simple solution when you want to just quickly edit a photo before sending it off to Flickr or Facebook. This is a very bare bones program which makes it ideal for the quick touch up. Don’t let its short list of features discourage you from trying it. You can still get the job done, but don’t think of it as a replacement for Photoshop. Consider it an accessory tool.
6. Picnik
Yet another internet browser based photo editor. This is what you could call an enhanced experience because it is just plain fun to use. The tools it offers are pretty much what you would expect from a free editor. There is a premium version with a few added features power users will probably miss but the additional cost is minimal. It also allows you to print which is lacking in some of the other browser based programs.
7. Pixlr
It is exactly what you would expect a copied version of Photoshop to be with the added bonus being free and web browser based. The tool panel and layering is done in similar fashion. It is even possible to edit multiple images simultaneously. You can also save directly to a URL. There is a tool that allows you to quickly access all the fonts and characters that you have stored on your PC.
8. Sumo Paint
Retouch photos, create logos, banners and even digitally paint. This software has many of the same features as Photoshop. From the simplest things like the Brush and the Pencil tools to being able to add layering effects, Sumo Paint has them all. It has even taken a hints from Adobe’s Illustrator program and added and ink tool for smoother lines when drawing. You can run this program from your web browser from any computer.
9. Corel PaintShop Pro
This powerful program is a tad easier to navigate than Photoshop. The mechanics involved in editing graphics, photos and such is more straight forward, which makes it easier to understand. It allows even a novice to create logos and banners without resorting to layering. Though not a freeware program it is still a lot more affordable that PhotoShop. Unfortunately, this is a Windows only program.
10. Corel Digital Studio
The newest addition to Corel’s software lineup this is a serious program. This is a cool alternative that allows you to get the job done without getting bogged down looking through a lot of tools you might not necessarily need. It has a very elegant interface. This is the only program mentioned in this article that also allows you to edit your digital camera’s movies and burn them right to DVD. Also not a free program and, like all Corel programs, Windows based only.
Equipped with these tools you will make short work of any photo. It all starts with great photos, so get out there and start shooting!
