Using the top free photo editing software, you can enhance your photos without any cost! For dedicated photographers, photo editing is a crucial step in their routine. While many opt to pay monthly fees to Adobe or a hefty sum for standalone programs, numerous fantastic free editing options are available. We’ve tested and compiled a list of the best.
Since every member of the AP team is a photographer, we all engage in photo editing as well. This list is based on the best free editing programs we’ve personally tried. You’ll find a combination of browser-based tools, open-source software, freemium versions of premium programs, free applications, and more. All these options enable you to edit photos effectively and make them look outstanding.
Continue reading to find our selection of the top free photo editing software currently available.
Manufacturers’ Free Raw Photo Editing Software
A great starting point is the free software offered by your camera’s manufacturer. Typically, this software allows you to view and process raw files, providing extensive options for color adjustment, white balance, brightness, and tonality. You can also expect tools for correcting lens distortions and fixing perspective issues such as vertical lines. While these programs can be a bit basic compared to specialized paid software, some options are definitely worth trying.
The days of finding an installation disc in your camera box are long gone. Nowadays, you’ll need to download the necessary software yourself. The simplest way to find the right software for your camera is to search by its name. For some brands, entering a valid camera serial number is required to start the download. Here is a list of programs from various manufacturers:
If you have a new camera and intend to process raw files, one of these options will be the best starting point for free photo editing software.
Best Free Photo Viewer for Windows: Irfanview
Irfanview is exclusively available for Windows and primarily serves as an image viewer rather than a full-fledged editor. However, it is an invaluable tool for sorting through your photos and sending favorites to your preferred editor for further enhancements. With the accompanying plug-ins, it can handle both JPEG and camera raw files, displaying the embedded preview for the latter.
Features include batch resizing and renaming, an RGB histogram display, and the ability to create slideshows with selected images. There’s also a convenient thumbnail viewer for browsing all images in a folder. Mastering the keyboard shortcuts enhances its speed and efficiency.
While it doesn’t replace a comprehensive Digital Asset Management program like Lightroom—lacking features like keywords and star ratings—it makes for an excellent supplementary tool alongside other free software highlighted in this article.
Best Free Photo Editor for Mac: Apple Photos
- Pre-installed on Apple devices
- For macOS
You may have initially thought of Apple Photos just as a gallery viewer, but it also offers surprisingly proficient editing capabilities that rival those of Lightroom.
Its interface is user-friendly, placing all the controls within easy reach. The crop tool includes a built-in protractor for simultaneous straightening adjustments. If you’re fully engaged in the Apple ecosystem with iCloud and iPhone, image access across all devices is seamless.
While you can make detailed adjustments using curves and other Photoshop-like tools, the software often nudges you toward its auto-enhance features—these options are quite effective, allowing for quick enhancements with just a click.
Best Free Photo Editor for Hobbyists: NCH Photopad
NCH Photopad is an incredibly capable photo editor brimming with features while remaining relatively user-friendly. On Android, a basic version of the app is available for free, with premium features offered via in-app purchases.
On Windows or Mac, this software is marketed as free for non-commercial home use, but you’ll need to purchase a license for full access to all features. Moreover, the software will consistently remind you to buy a license upon opening or saving your work.
A series of tabs at the top reveals toolbars with clearly labeled buttons. You’ll find a good selection of brightness and color adjustment tools, cropping and rotating options, and even the ability to correct perspective. Various creative filters are also included.
The software can import raw files but only uses fixed ‘as shot’ settings. Edits stack up on the right side of the screen, allowing you to reorder or modify them anytime. You can save projects in a native file format or export to common formats like JPEG and TIFF. Recent updates have introduced features like AI-powered upscaling, letting you increase image resolution.
Best Browser Photo Editing Software: Canva
- www.canva.com
- Works in-browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera
- iOS and Android apps available
If you’ve ever needed to quickly create a design for social media or similar projects, you might be familiar with Canva. This popular online design tool works directly in your browser—no downloads necessary—and provides a fast solution for making graphics. Surprisingly, Canva also includes a basic but effective photo editor within its array of tools.
This platform isn’t built for processing raw files or extensive high-level editing. However, Canva’s photo-editing interface allows for simple functions like cropping, adjusting light, tint, and white balance, along with a selection of quick filters for specific styles. Premium subscribers gain access to advanced AI-powered features like one-click background removal.
If you’re seeking
If you’re looking to edit images for social media graphics or other promotional use, Canva is a lightweight and budget-friendly option. Its success can be largely attributed to its user-friendly and intuitive interface, making it far simpler to navigate than more complex software like GIMP (which is discussed below).
Canva is a suitable choice if you’re utilizing a Chromebook or similar device with limited memory.
Top Free Online Photo Editor: Google Photos
- Compatible with Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and Opera
- Available as an app on iOS and Android
Similar to Apple Photos, Google Photos is an editor that you may already have access to without realizing it. If you have a Google account, you automatically have access to Google Photos for gallery and storage. If you own an Android phone, it’s likely that your pictures are already stored there. Simply select an image, hit the edit button, and you’ll enter Google Photos’ editing environment.
Initially, you’ll see AI-generated ‘suggestions’ for editing your image, featuring terms like ‘Dynamic’ and ‘Vivid’, along with a basic ‘Enhance’ option. Honestly, these suggestions may not be very helpful—they often resemble Instagram filters, and the edited image may not even align with the keyword that inspired it.
However, if you switch to the editing tab, things become more engaging. You can modify parameters like Brightness, Contrast, Warmth, Tint, and others using sliders. While localized edits aren’t possible, it effectively does a good job for general enhancements, and integrates well with your existing Google photo library.
Best Free Photo Editor with Layers: Photo Pos Pro
Photo Pos Pro labels itself as a free image and photo editor, but unfortunately, it isn’t universally accessible. Windows users can download, install, and utilize the program for free; however, Mac users will not have the same opportunity. (For Mac users, the company has a more basic free tool called Photo Pos Snap, which functions as a browser tool or an Android app.)
The software features both Novice and Expert interfaces, with the latter providing a wide array of tools and options arranged in a way similar to Photoshop. You can opt for either automatic or manual edits for adjustments such as brightness, contrast, and white balance, and can also add text, shapes, or stickers to images. Plus, it supports layers with masks and grouping, allowing you to create composite images.
There’s a lot you can explore while editing your images. The main limitation of the free version is that you’ll need to request a free ‘Save key’ daily to save files larger than 1024 pixels square, or you could opt to purchase a full license to eliminate this issue.
Best Free Photo Editing Software for Windows: Paint.net
Paint.net is arguably the most polished free software available for Windows. You can acquire it from the official Windows store for a modest $9.99 / £8.39, while the Classic version can be downloaded for free (or as a voluntary payment). Originally intended as a more advanced alternative to Microsoft Paint, it has evolved into a simpler yet effective substitute for Photoshop.
It features a relatively easy-to-use interface equipped with essential tools for tweaking color and tonality while creating layered compositions. The program also includes a clone stamp tool to remove unwanted blemishes easily.
A variety of creative effects are available, and a simple History Palette allows you to revert any changes you make if they don’t meet your expectations. Layered projects can be saved in the program’s native format, and completed images can be exported in widely-used file types like JPEG, TIFF, and PNG. A minor drawback is that it does not directly handle camera raw files.
Best Free Raw Processor: Raw Therapee
If you’re looking for a comprehensive raw conversion program at no cost, Raw Therapee might be perfect for you. It’s a highly robust software that not only meets but exceeds the functionality of programs like Lightroom.
Its main drawback may be the complexity of its interface and the vast array of features it offers. There are numerous panels filled with options that you won’t find in other software—such as tools for demosaicing. While tech enthusiasts will appreciate the depth available, casual users might find it daunting.
This raw converter produces exceptional results and was last updated to version 5.11 in August 2024, with enhancements to functionality and added support for additional RAW formats and cameras.
Best Alternative Raw Processor: Darktable
Like Raw Therapee, Darktable is a free raw developer that offers more features than the software provided by your camera manufacturer. Its layout and user interface bear a resemblance to Adobe Lightroom while retaining its unique approach.
The left side of the window displays options for managing and handling files. Meanwhile, raw image adjustments are facilitated by a series of ‘modules’ arranged on the right side. However, the layout can be unusual; for instance, tonality controls for shadows and highlights are entirely separate from exposure settings.
It may take some time to become familiar with the software’s workflow. Yet, once you master the location of vital settings, it operates smoothly. The latest version, Darktable 5.0, was released in December 2024, featuring camera-specific styles for over 500 different models.
By default, the program renders colors somewhat muted, but there’s a special ‘Velvia’ module that enhances vibrancy effectively. You can also export files in 16-bit TIFF format for further edits or as JPEG for easy sharing. Overall, it’s a fascinating choice worth exploring if you’ve outgrown the software that came with your camera.
Best Free Photo Editing Software for Advanced Users: GIMP
The GNU Image Manipulation Program is one of the longest-standing free programs available. It’s a robust image editor similar to Photoshop, providing a wide range of features, including extensive color and tonality adjustments.
Editing capabilities and a variety of painting tools are available. While it doesn’t open camera raw files directly, you can import them using either RawTherapee or Darktable. Additionally, it offers comprehensive colour management. In theory, GIMP can accomplish nearly anything that most users would require.
However, one cannot overlook GIMP’s rather unusual and clunky interface, making it somewhat difficult to navigate. It uses dialogue boxes that may feel unconventional and require some time to get used to. The situation is further complicated on Windows due to inadequate support for high-resolution displays. Nevertheless, for those willing to invest the time to learn, GIMP certainly has many features to explore. The community is currently focused on developing the next iteration, GIMP 3.0, with the latest release candidate launched in late December 2024.
Top free photo editing software for mobile users: Snapseed
Snapseed is unparalleled for editing images on smartphones or tablets before uploading them to social media. Its intuitive tools are organized within a straightforward interface designed specifically for touchscreen devices. Its long-standing popularity speaks volumes about its effective design, and it received a noteworthy update in May 2024.
Snapseed supports both JPEG and DNG raw files, complete with a well-structured module for importing the latter. Beyond a selection of preset styles, it provides a robust set of adjustments for colour and tonality. Additionally, there are impressive film emulation visuals, available in both black & white and color, alongside an extensive array of filters that can give your photos a nostalgic touch.
Key features include an easy-to-use perspective correction tool and tonal contrast controls that enhance sharpness and detail on smaller screens. Once you finish editing, you can either save a copy to your camera roll or share it directly to social media. In summary, if Snapseed isn’t on your phone yet, it’s time to download it.
Top free Adobe photo editing software: Adobe Lightroom Mobile
If serious photographers seek another mobile editing option aside from Snapseed, they should consider Lightroom. Even without a paid Creative Cloud Photography or Lightroom subscription ($9.99/£9.98 per month), you can create a free Adobe ID to access ample colour and tonal adjustment tools. Certain advanced features remain subscription-only: perspective correction, healing brush, AI masks, and device file syncing. Notably, RAW file editing is also not available in the free version.
Lightroom is a highly capable image editor, even with its free features. The interface is well-suited for both phones and tablets, featuring sizable, responsive sliders. It offers an experience akin to using a “real” desktop raw processing application, delivering excellent results. This makes it a solid alternative for adjusting files transferred from your camera for social sharing.
Top free photo editing software for creative mobile photographers: Pixlr
Pixlr encompasses various image editing solutions. Among them is a free online image editor reminiscent of Photoshop, accessible via any web browser. Here, we’re focusing on the mobile application available for both Android and iOS, with the free version supported by ads that can be removed via payment.
Pixlr features a sleek, user-friendly interface and a standard set of controls for colour and tonal adjustments. Its main appeal for some photographers lies in the extensive array of creative filters and effects it offers. You can experiment with numerous colour effects and frames, catering to those who wish to extend their images beyond a straightforward representation of the original scene.
Some paid options
Currently, both Lightroom and Photoshop require subscriptions, with the most economical choice being the Photography Plan, which includes both applications plus 20GB of cloud storage for $9.99 / £9.98 (or 1TB of storage for $19.99/ £19.97). A more affordable subscription option is the Windows-only Zoner Photo Studio, priced at $5.99 per month or $59 per year.
Additionally, there are excellent subscription-free alternatives, such as Affinity Photo 2 ($69.99 / £67.99), Skylum Luminar Neo (£6 per month or £59 annually, $149 / £99 for lifetime access), and Corel AfterShot Pro 3 ($79.99 / £69.99). Most of these options provide 30-day free trials to help you identify which one meets your needs.
How to select the best free photo editing software?
Begin by assessing your requirements and listing essential features you desire in editing software. This will help zero in on your options. It’s clear that the ideal software varies based on your photography style, whether you’re a novice or an advanced user.
System requirements
Ensure your computer has sufficient capabilities to run the latest editing software; otherwise, an older computer may pose challenges. Visit the software manufacturer’s website for recommended RAM, graphics card specifications, operating system, and monitor resolution. For instance, Photoshop recommends 16GB of RAM but can function with a minimum of 8GB, although this may compromise speed and performance.
Consider whether you also have adequate hard disk space. This includes not only the space for software installation but also enough free space for smooth operation.
Another crucial factor is how frequently the provider releases updates. These often include new features like Photoshop’s Generative AI, as well as valuable updates for support with newly released cameras and lens profile corrections.
Cross-platform licensing
If you use both a MacBook or laptop on the go, along with a desktop PC or iMac at home, check whether your chosen software offers cross-platform licensing. This feature allows you to operate the same software on both devices without needing separate licenses. Some subscriptions also enable you to install the same software on multiple devices, allowing for easy transitions between them.
Workflow and organization
Are you looking to both edit and catalog your images? Many software options provide extensive cataloging and rating features to aid in managing your files. Given the rapid accumulation of images, efficient file locating is increasingly critical.
Features
All editors mentioned here include fundamental editing tools; however, your preferred editor will vary significantly based on your shooting and editing style. You may want built-in filters or presets for quick adjustments, AI features, or generative fill.
Alternatively, if you require collaboration across multiple images, as in event or wedding photography, ensure that batch editing is a supported feature.
For macro or product photography, software that allows you to compile focus-stacked photos is key, whereas effective noise reduction is essential for wildlife photography. Your choices ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Final thoughts
Once you’ve identified one or more potential software, download the trial versions. Actually working with them will help clarify your decision-making process. Select three images and edit them in each program to compare usability and features, giving you a better understanding of which software will be best for long-term use.
Curious about whether to shoot in raw or JPEG? Check out our guide on raw vs JPEG. For additional options, browse our guide to the best photo editing software, along with the latest reviews.
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