The Best Free Photo Editing Apps in 2021 (according to PetaPixel)

Some of the categories they have chosen seem a bit random, and because they only allow one choice per category a lot of good stuff is missed out - e.g., for raw processors Darktable may be a solid choice, but they don't mention RawTherapee, ART or Lightzone, or the various manufacturer-specific packages like the Nikon, Sony and Fuji versions of Capture One Express, or Nikon NX Studio etc.
 
Retune said:
Some of the categories they have chosen seem a bit random, and because they only allow one choice per category a lot of good stuff is missed out - e.g., for raw processors Darktable may be a solid choice, but they don't mention RawTherapee, ART or Lightzone, or the various manufacturer-specific packages like the Nikon, Sony and Fuji versions of Capture One Express, or Nikon NX Studio etc.
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Yes. They don't even seem to be trying. Still, I thought it might help someone.
 
Why people want free editing is beyond me? - It cannot and will not ever equal paid software - simple

Les :)
 
Annet said:
Someone who doesn't really do much editing or just wants to try and see whether it's their thing is lucky to have free options instead of paying for something they probably won't need. That being said, aren't Gimp and Darktable good alternatives?
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No NOT when compared to the likes of Photoshop 2021 they're not in qualirty or function - all very subjective, I personally I don't mind the £120 a year subscription as I do make money from some of my images

Les

I did not say DON'T use free stuff- just dont expect any decent software with it being FREE
 
bulldog5988 said:
Darktable is very good.
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If you shoot RAW then yes I agree :)

top 5


Best graphic images editing softwarePricePlatformsLicense
--
Photoshop		$9.99/moWindows, macOSHagu
--
GIMP		FreeWindows 10/8/7; Linux; MacOSGPLv3+
--
Photopea		FreeWeb (in a browser)-
--
Paint.NET		FREEWindows-
--
PhotoPad		---
 
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I shoot RAW
 
Lez325 said:
Why people want free editing is beyond me? - It cannot and will not ever equal paid software - simple

Les :)
Click to expand...

Sorry, It's not so simple. It may give you a less efficient workflow, having to dot between different programmes at different stages, but I suggest you actually try darktable, GIMP, Rawtherapee at NX Studio and see how very effective they are. An amazing effort from the people who develop them. I wouldn't (and couldn't, obv) but I'm very grateful they do.
 
dweeble said:
Sorry, It's not so simple. It may give you a less efficient workflow, having to dot between different programmes at different stages, but I suggest you actually try darktable, GIMP, Rawtherapee at NX Studio and see how very effective they are. An amazing effort from the people who develop them. I wouldn't (and couldn't, obv) but I'm very grateful they do.
Click to expand...

I think you answered your own question right there :LOL::LOL::LOL:
 
I've always preferred the Nikon View/Capture/Studio raw conversions to those from Adobe Camera Raw. Even with the camera matching profiles, the ACR colours aren't quite the same, at least in versions compatible with CS6. Capture One, for which there's also now a free Express version, also seems to give me better output. ACR has good highlight recovery, though, so I use it occasionally for that.
 
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Les, why are you so worried about the only good software being paid-for? Does it make you feel more grown-up? Has it occurred to you that some of the OS stuff may perform better in some areas?
 
Lez325 said:
I did not say DON'T use free stuff- just dont expect any decent software with it being FREE
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That simply isn't true.

It's close to certain that you're using this forum courtesy of free software. The servers on which the files are stored are very likely to be running under Linux or FreeBSD. It's equally likely that the HTML is being managed by Apache or some derivative. If you use an Apple computer then much of the underlying operating system is a derivative of FreeBSD. Windows 10 contains various components from Linux to manage its interoperability mode.

Claiming that free software isn't "decent software" is somewhat insulting to the people who give up their time and effort to develop this stuff.
 
TP runs on Apache and Linux (both free and open source). If you're viewing it on an Android phone you are also using a version of Linux. If your web browser is Firefox it's free and open source, or if it's Chrome or Edge (or several others) it has an open source core. iOS and macOS have substantial open source core components. This stuff is commoner than you might think, and underpins much of what we do with computers and mobile devices.
 
dweeble said:
Les, why are you so worried about the only good software being paid-for? Does it make you feel more grown-up? Has it occurred to you that some of the OS stuff may perform better in some areas?
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Im not worried in any shape or form- if you want to use free editing then go ahead, I personally don't and no need for the personal insults is there???? 125 post and you think its ok to insult members ( reported) I don't use free editing software - if you want to go ahead - its only my opinion - I won't lower myself to your level by insulting you back, I'm bigger than that
 
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AndrewFlannigan said:
That simply isn't true.

It's close to certain that you're using this forum courtesy of free software. The servers on which the files are stored are very likely to be running under Linux or FreeBSD. It's equally likely that the HTML is being managed by Apache or some derivative. If you use an Apple computer then much of the underlying operating system is a derivative of FreeBSD. Windows 10 contains various components from Linux to manage its interoperability mode.

Claiming that free software isn't "decent software" is somewhat insulting to the people who give up their time and effort to develop this stuff.
Click to expand...

If you had taken the time to read the op's post we are discussing IMAGE EDITING SOFWARE - not software in general

I'm gussing you don't use either ?
 
Lez325 said:
If you had taken the time to read the op's post we are discussing IMAGE EDITING SOFWARE - not software in general
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I did read the entire thread and was responding only to your assertion.
Lez325 said:
I'm gussing you don't use either ?
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Then you would be wrong. I use the GIMP and Darktable, when I need them. In the interests of full disclosure: my favourite editor is Apple's Preview but that's free software too, in the sense that it's included in the price of an Apple computer.
 
Lez325 said:
Why people want free editing is beyond me? - It cannot and will not ever equal paid software - simple
Les :)
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OK so it's beyond you. But it's not beyond a lot of people. Many prefer software that happens to be free. And there are significant benefits to some of those applications.
"cannot and will not equal paid software -simple." I suspect you are very open minded, but your statement makes you look the opposite. Some have paid a lot of money out for some software, and it irks them in to bold statements when others don't appreciate their investment. Let's hope you are not one of those. There are some real gems out there, and although this article is not ideal for many who have detailed knowledge of this area, it can help some people discover new things.
 
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ianp5a said:
OK so it's beyond you. But it's not beyond a lot of people. Many prefer software that happens to be free. And there are significant benefits to some of those applications.
"cannot and will not equal paid software -simple." I suspect you are very open minded, but your statement makes you look the opposite. Some have paid a lot of money out for some software, and it irks them in to bold statements when others don't appreciate their investment. Let's hope you are not one of those. There are some real gems out there, and although this article is not ideal for many who have detailed knowledge of this area, it can help some people discover new things.
Click to expand...


FREE softward in regard to an editing suite, will not perform as well as paid for software FACT!

I have used the free stuff and for me it did not cust the mustard - when using it for Weddings/ Prom nights /Portraits etc etc- my investing in paid software is no ones concern but my own - I paid for the work that went into the software and the monthly sometimes weekly updates - I use Photoshop 2021 and Lightroom too both paid for and the work very well indeed

I also DO appreciate the work that goes into FREE editing software - just not for me-If anyone uses thhe free stuff that's ok by me - Just giving my opinion

I hope this clears this up?

Have a lovely weekend

Les :)
 
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Lez325 said:
FREE softward in regard to an editing suite, will not perform as well as paid for software FACT!
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You seem to be confusing the meaning of the word "fact" with the meaning of the word "opinion".
Lez325 said:
I have used the free stuff and for me it did not cust the mustard
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Now you have correctly stated a fact (which I have embolded and underlined) about your opinion.
Lez325 said:
my investing in paid software is no ones concern but my own
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...and again you have stated a fact, which applies equally to all.
 
Lez325 said:
FREE softward in regard to an editing suite, will not perform as well as paid for software FACT!
I have used the free stuff and for me it did not cust the mustard - when using it for Weddings/ Prom nights /Portraits etc etc- my investing in paid software is no ones concern but my own - I paid for the work that went into the software and the monthly sometimes weekly updates - I use Photoshop 2021 and Lightroom too both paid for and the work very well indeed
I also DO appreciate the work that goes into FREE editing software - just not for me-If anyone uses thhe free stuff that's ok by me - Just giving my opinion
I hope this clears this up?
Have a lovely weekend
Les :)
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Your bold statement, which doesn't take into consideration other user situations and means it looks very dumb. And even in your reply to clear up your first post you still get it wrong. Photoshop is technically poor solution for me for example. So despite you writing fact in capital letters Photoshop is still a fail. And so are your assertions.
 
ianp5a said:
Your bold statement, which doesn't take into consideration other user situations and means it looks very dumb. And even in your reply to clear up your first post you still get it wrong. Photoshop is technically poor solution for me for example. So despite you writing fact in capital letters Photoshop is still a fail. And so are your assertions.
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:LOL: :LOL: :LOL: :LOL: :LOL: :LOL: This is how much I care for YOUR opinion or your personal insults toward me either- Have a lovely day
 
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I'm just telling you how claiming something is a 'fact', that other people know is not the case, does look foolish. Not personal insults. But something that might help you understand what you are doing.
 
ianp5a said:
I'm just telling you how claiming something is a 'fact', that other people know is not the case, does look foolish. Not personal insults. But something that might help you understand what you are doing.
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Ok then :) I appologise if my comments offended you in any way :)

I have been on this forum many years and do not like to fall out or offend people

Les
 
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Challenge a comment by all means guys, but lets keep it friendly eh?
Ta (y)
 
Lez325 said:
Ok then :) I appologise if my comments offended you in any way :)

I have been on this forum many years and do not like to fall out or offend people

Les
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Les. Your posts were not offensive to me at all. No worries there.
 
Lez325 said:
If you had taken the time to read the op's post we are discussing IMAGE EDITING SOFWARE - not software in general

I'm gussing you don't use either ?
Click to expand...

Try reading the title. This discussion is FREE editing software. It was only you who introduced the paid for options. Personally, having paid for Photoshop CS3 and Lightroom 6 as outright purchases I am very offronted by Adobe now having shut them down and told me I have to RENT the modern version, whether I want it or no. The Lightroom programme version I had was way more capable than I am, I do not need any of their updates, I was quite happy with what I had, it did what I wanted and a great deal more that I would probably never understand or learn how to use..... I bought a product and the company has now come along and taken that product off me. I am not the only one. I will categorically state that I will give up photography before I give Adobe another penny of my money. They are an immoral company. Thankfully there are people out there prepared to share their knowledge and not try to milk people for it.
 
Lensflare said:
Try reading the title. This discussion is FREE editing software. It was only you who introduced the paid for options. Personally, having paid for Photoshop CS3 and Lightroom 6 as outright purchases I am very offronted by Adobe now having shut them down and told me I have to RENT the modern version, whether I want it or no. The Lightroom programme version I had was way more capable than I am, I do not need any of their updates, I was quite happy with what I had, it did what I wanted and a great deal more that I would probably never understand or learn how to use..... I bought a product and the company has now come along and taken that product off me. I am not the only one. I will categorically state that I will give up photography before I give Adobe another penny of my money. They are an immoral company. Thankfully there are people out there prepared to share their knowledge and not try to milk people for it.
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It ought to be possible for your IT support guy to re-install LR6 if you have the original installer and licence key. Adobe have not stopped it from functioning or stopped activating new installations as far as I know. I don't know how your system got in this state, but it sounds like you have installed a CC component at some point. Perhaps Adobe pushed this as an 'update', but it ought to be possible to revert to what you had before.

Unfortunately the same is not true for CS3 if it has to be installed from scratch, because Adobe killed the activation servers and now refuse to provide the activation-free version they used to make available to people with CS3 licences. So in this case I think your outrage is perfectly justified.
 
Lensflare said:
Try reading the title. This discussion is FREE editing software. It was only you who introduced the paid for options. Personally, having paid for Photoshop CS3 and Lightroom 6 as outright purchases I am very offronted by Adobe now having shut them down and told me I have to RENT the modern version, whether I want it or no. The Lightroom programme version I had was way more capable than I am, I do not need any of their updates, I was quite happy with what I had, it did what I wanted and a great deal more that I would probably never understand or learn how to use..... I bought a product and the company has now come along and taken that product off me. I am not the only one. I will categorically state that I will give up photography before I give Adobe another penny of my money. They are an immoral company. Thankfully there are people out there prepared to share their knowledge and not try to milk people for it.
Click to expand...
photorumors.com

How to download Adobe Lightroom 6 (hidden link) - Photo Rumors

A reader sent me this email on how to download Lightroom 6 – apparently Adobe has removed all download links, except one – if you need LR6, you better download it right away because I am sure Adobe will remove the link after this post goes live: “I’m sure this is info will make many […]
photorumors.com photorumors.com
 
SsSsSsSsSnake said:
photorumors.com

How to download Adobe Lightroom 6 (hidden link) - Photo Rumors

A reader sent me this email on how to download Lightroom 6 – apparently Adobe has removed all download links, except one – if you need LR6, you better download it right away because I am sure Adobe will remove the link after this post goes live: “I’m sure this is info will make many […]
photorumors.com photorumors.com
Click to expand...
It may be a bit more complicated than downloading the installer. Though LR6 can still be installed and activated, you can run into problems if any CC management components have been installed as 'updates'. Adobe tried to push users towards CC with this sort of behaviour, which from his previous posts might have happened in Simon's case. If so, it may be necessary to scrub the CC stuff from the system, maybe with the Cleaner tool, then do a fresh installation of LR 6.14 with the installer linked above and the 'perpetual key', then turn off updates. This thread discusses a similar situation with CS6 vs CC, and some solutions:
community.adobe.com

How do I prevent Creative Cloud from taking over my CS6 perpetual license? | Community

I have a perpetual license for CS6 Master Collection / Windows that I installed on my PC and laptop a couple of years ago. 12 months ago, I signed up for the creative cloud / all apps plan. I canceled the creative cloud plan yesterday and my CS6 perpetual license stopped working. A...
community.adobe.com community.adobe.com
This wouldn't help with Simon's other software, CS3, which can no longer be installed and activated in the normal way.
 
Retune said:
It may be a bit more complicated than downloading the installer. Though LR6 can still be installed and activated, you can run into problems if any CC management components have been installed as 'updates'. Adobe tried to push users towards CC with this sort of behaviour, which from his previous posts might have happened in Simon's case. If so, it may be necessary to scrub the CC stuff from the system, maybe with the Cleaner tool, then do a fresh installation of LR 6.14 with the installer linked above and the 'perpetual key', then turn off updates. This thread discusses a similar situation with CS6 vs CC, and some solutions:
community.adobe.com

How do I prevent Creative Cloud from taking over my CS6 perpetual license? | Community

I have a perpetual license for CS6 Master Collection / Windows that I installed on my PC and laptop a couple of years ago. 12 months ago, I signed up for the creative cloud / all apps plan. I canceled the creative cloud plan yesterday and my CS6 perpetual license stopped working. A...
community.adobe.com community.adobe.com
This wouldn't help with Simon's other software, CS3, which can no longer be installed and activated in the normal way.
Click to expand...
your spot on about the installer trying to push CC15 on you,which is the equiv cloud version,I got round it by uninstalling LR and signing in with a different adobe account
 
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