Top 7 Free Photo Editing Software

The perfect photo doesn't come out of a camera instantly. It makes no difference even if you have the best camera in the market. There will be circumstances that will not be under your control. For instance, since action cameras have wide-angle lenses, distortion is inevitable. Exposure problems are also common in photos taken using these cameras. These are examples of the elements that are sometimes out of control and need to be fixed. Thus, a little help from a photo editor can make you achieve the look that you are aiming for. There are many photo editors that are available nowadays. However, some of these software are only available for subscription. Here are some of the editors you can use for free.

#1 Canva

If you are looking for an editor that can do the job in a short amount of time, consider using Canva. With its friendly interface, you can easily edit your photos by dragging and dropping elements. It may not have all the editing tools that you need. But it offers a wide range of icons and templates that are useful in graphic design and social media posts. In addition, Canva is downloadable on your mobile phone. So if you need a quick edit on the go, you can instantly edit it on your phone.

#2 Fotor

Fotor is an online photo editor that uses cloud-storage to save your work in progress. Unlike other online editors, it keeps track of the changes you make on your images. You do not have to start over if you accidentally closed the window or if you want to continue editing it on the next day. It has various editing options that are easily adjusted using scales. You can also add stickers, frames and text from their selection. 

Fotor can be categorized as an image enhancer more than a photo editor. It lacks those manual options that photographers often use to edit their photos. Nonetheless, it can produce outputs that are ready for social media posting, advertisements and documentation.

#3 BeFunky

Another easy-to-use photo editor is BeFunky. Just like Canva, it has a user-friendly interface that enables you to drag-and-drop composition features. It has an editing history that allows you to undo or redo changes. It is subdivided into three sections: photo editor, collage and design sections. 

You can explore your creativity by using the large selection of tools and customizable templates. Although it has numerous tools and options that you can use in editing, most of them are paid and require a subscription. Still, you can produce high-quality results with the free available features.

#4 Pixlr

There are two available platforms for Pixlr: Pixlr Editor and Pixlr X. Pixlr Editor is often compared to reach Photoshop's capabilities in editing. Its interface is also close to the ones used by Adobe. At the same time, Pixlr X is the HTML version, which is also considered an alternative for Photoshop Express. Pixlr Editor's impressive features can support the needs of the professionals in editing their images online. Beginners and non-professionals, on the other hand, can use the Pixlr X that has one-click tools. There is a possible merger of the two platforms because a Pixlr Editor's plugin will not be available soon.

#5 Photoscape X

Sometimes the file formats of your images make it difficult to import them on your photo editor. The good thing is Photoscape X supports many file formats. It is known for being a comprehensive editor for having almost all the tools you need in editing. Besides, it specializes in one-click enhancement features. Beginners will not have a hard time using this editor. However, if you need help with something, you can visit their website for video tutorials.

Another thing is that you do not need to resize and change the format of your images one by one because you can edit pictures in batches. The only downside of it is that you might find difficulty navigating the editor because of the number of options on their interface, and also, there are no advanced tools.

#6 GIMP

When something is free of charge, there is an implication that it will have limitations. It doesn't apply to GIMP. With GIMP, you will use all of its features without a penny coming out of your wallet. The reason is that it is open-source software. It means that a community is maintaining it. There will be updates regularly. One thing that you will love about this editor is the customizable workspace. You can always keep your preferred tools right beside your work area. It is good to have this feature since the editor offers multiple features. 

Another thing to consider is how you can conveniently access this editor. Some editors are available through the mobile application, but they don't meet your needs when editing. GIMP has a portable version that can be downloaded and stored in a flash drive. So if you need a photo editor, you need to plug it in any available laptop or PC.

#7 Photoshop

Although Adobe Photoshop is not entirely free of charge, you can not deny what it can do to your photos. It is known for its retouching and layering tools. It may seem intimidating and only caters to the professionals, but beginners can use it as well. You do not have to learn how to use everything in an instant. It takes time to get the hang of it. 

That being the case, a part of the Adobe Photoshop family is the Adobe Photoshop Express. You can use this application at no cost. It offers quick-fix tools to enhance your photos. It is best used in mobile photography. If you are not satisfied with the edit, you can send the PSD files to Adobe Photoshop to advance.

Innovations when it comes to photo editing bring a lot of benefits nowadays. Even professionals use several software to improve photos and enhance their quality. Photo editing can both a passion and a skill to be learned. It will help you reimagine your images in a way that the camera cannot capture alone. You can start from the most user-friendly software until you can use those advanced tools powered by the high-end ones.