Best Free Photo Editors for Windows
There are several quality free photo editing programs available if your budget just cannot afford a software investment. These freeware programs are ready to be downloaded and will provide basic imaging editing options to fulfill your photo enhancement needs.
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 designed by two college students in 1996. GIMP has now grown into a powerful image editor with a large user forum. The latest version, the GIMP 2.0, rivals conventional editors with its revamped user interface.
Picasa is a terrific freeware program available to fill your photo needs. Picasa can help you find, edit and share all of the pictures in your computer. If you have a multitude of photos, Picasa will keep them organized and maintained by sorting them into visual albums. Even better, is Picasa’s ability to swiftly touch-up your pictures and correct most mistakes with an easy to use format. This software also provides the means to easily share these photos with friend and family 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 free software image editor providing an amazing set of tools for painting and editing images and photos. No matter if you need to touch up your photo shots, or add a creative effect to a lackluster photo, ImageForge can give you the tools make it happen. You can even share your photos easily by creating photo albums and simple slide shows.
Paint.NET offers features that can stand up to commercial applications and includes support for layers. It is a continuing project at Washington State University and is available for download as freeware. In addition to 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 base that supports its progress and development.
I hope this has given you a little bit more knowledge about the best photo editors free for Windows. These programs are easy on the wallet while fulfilling all of your photo needs from editing to effects. If you find that you still need more out of your editing software after trying these out, commercial grade programs such as Ulead, PhotoImpact and Jasc Paint Shop Pro to provide for the more in-depth, long term photo editing tasks.
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