If you’re really on a budget, you will be glad to know that there are many
free photo editors out there ready for your download.
These programs give you basic image editing features to perform standard
photo enhancement tasks. I
’ve compiled a list of 5 free photo editing programs for Windows which you
may like to look at. These are quality programs which give commercial ones a
serious run for their money.
Do take note, however, that some of these programs may be limited in features
unless you buy an upgrade version.
The GIMP
(GNU Image Manipulation Program) is an open-source program originally
developed by two university students in 1996. It has now morphed into a
powerful image editor with a huge user base. The latest version, the GIMP
2.0, has a revamped user interface that places it up threw with mainstream
image editors.
Picasa is a powerful and free software that helps you
instantly find, edit and share all the pictures on your PC. If you always
had problems keeping track of your pictures, Picasa will help you do that by
sorting them into visual albums. Moreover, if you want to quickly touch up
your photos, Picasa offers many one-click fixes to do just that. What’s
more, the program allows you to easily share those photos through email,
printing or CDs.
VCW VicMan's Photo Editor has a host of features similar to Adobe
Photoshop. With this program, you can easily zoom into and pan within your
image and perform standard image editing. The color adjustment options are
also very extensive. The program comes in a limited free version, as well as
a commercial Pro version which sells for $30.
ImageForge is a freeware image editor gives you a great set of tools for
painting and editing images and photos. Whether you want to touch up your
photo shots, or add a creative effect to a boring photo, ImageForge can
provide you with the tools to do it. You can even share your photos easily
by creating photo albums and simple slide shows.
Paint.NET is an on-going project at Washington State University, with
features that match commercial applications, including support for layers.
It is provided as freeware and is readily available for download. Besides
standard image editing features, there’s also a special Effects API for you
to create your own special effects. The program also has a strong user forum
that supports its progress and development.
Conclusion
I hope you'll learnt a thing or two about the
best free photo editors for Windows. Using a free photo editor is a great way to
save money, while satisfying all your photo manipulation needs. However, I do
advise that for serious, long-term photo editing tasks, go for commercial grade
software such as Ulead PhotoImpact and Jasc Paint Shop Pro.
Easily Organize
Your Digital Photos
If you're getting bogged down by thousands of digital photos, then you need a
good photo management program. One program that I like to use is ACDSee from ACD Systems.
This software allows you to organize your photos easily using a keyword tagging
system, while providing a full suite of photo editing and sharing features.
ACDSee is definitely worth a look if you're in the market for photo software.
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Easily Organize
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