With today's sophisticated smartphones, capturing a great photo on the fly or doing scenic portraits is as easy as sending a text or making a call. But that doesn't mean the photo is perfect. Given post-holiday bills, most likely don't have extra cash for that brand-name photo-editing software.
But there are some pretty solid, free image-editing tools within easy reach. Here's five to consider.
1. GIMP
GIMP, or the GNU Image Manipulation Program, is a program that will pop up a lot in the search for a free image-editing tool. It was first released in 1996 and has been regularly updated. GIMP includes features to correct colors, enhance contrast, edit brightness as well as some great paint tools. While the software might have a bit of a learning curve, as far as free image-editing tools, GIMP is one of the best.
2. Paint.NET
Not everyone needs software as powerful as GIMP, however. Paint.NET is great when it comes to image editing basics, allowing users to effectively resize, crop and rotate their photos. It also comes with some good paint tools and special effects. Not only that, but the software supports layers, too, meaning users can edit parts of their photos. One of the best things about Paint.NET is the fact it is very easy to use, meaning even image-editing novices can effectively edit photos.
3. Photo Pos Pro
Photo Pos Pro might have a little bit of a dated interface, but that doesn't mean it's not a great tool. The software includes support for layers and masks, and has a wide selection of effects, which can all be configured to the user's needs. The program also offers some more fun effects, such as the ability to add stardust, fireworks or bubbles to an image.
4. PhotoFiltre
PhotoFiltre is another program featuring excellent editing tools. While the software is more for image retouching than traditional editing, it can offer great results as it provides users with a number of paint tools, color correction tools and filters.
It's important to note PhotoFiltre is only free for personal use. If you're planning on making money by using the software, you need to pay for it.
5. Chasys Draw IES
Despite the strange name, Chasys Draw IES is certainly a very capable editor. It offers a range of drawing tools, support for layers, great special effects and lots of color and lighting adjustment tools. It even has support for Photoshop plugins, allowing the user to add a range of extra functionality.
