Photoshop is a powerful tool for manipulating images, but it cannot be easy to learn. Many alternatives provide similar functionality and have less complex interfaces than the original application. Here we’ll take a look at ten of the best options for Photoshop:
1. GIMP
GIMP is an open-source image editor that supports many file formats, such as PNG and JPEG. It was by Spencer Kimball in 1997 and had since then. The software runs on Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Unix-like operating systems.
GIMP offers a large set of tools for editing images, including layers, filters, selections, resizing/rotating tools, etc. The program also has its scripting language called GEGL, which enables you to create plugins for extra functionality like scripting actions or creating effects (such as blur).
2. Paint.net
Paint.net is a free graphics editing program that has a lot of plugins, which means creating a large variety of images. It’s easy to use and has a large user base, so if you’re looking for an alternative to Photoshop but don’t want the price tag or complexity of other options on this list (like GIMP), this might be your best bet!
3. Seashore
Seashore is a popular open-source image editor on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It has a simple interface with high-quality tools for editing images. The program has many filters and effects to help you create the perfect picture.
4. Acorn
- Acorn is a free image editing and graphic design application for Mac OS X. It is by the same developers who created Pixelmator and Aperture, so it’s no surprise that Acorn is an excellent alternative to Photoshop.
- Acorn offers a simple interface with only two panels at the top of your screen: the Toolbar and Library Panel. The Toolbar contains tools such as Crop, Rotate (45° increments), Delete, or Copy/Paste. The Library Panel allows you to organize your images into folders based on their names or tags (typically keywords associated with them).
- It Makes organizing your files much easier than having them scattered throughout different folders within an application like Photoshop—which can make it difficult to find specific types of images when needed later on!
5. Pic Monkey
- Pic Monkey is a free photo editor that can crop and resize images, apply filters and effects, add text directly to your photos, or even create unique collages. The app has over 1 million users worldwide who use it daily for all kinds of purposes.
- It’s also easy to use Pic Monkey—open up the app and start snapping away! There are icons at the bottom of each screen that take you directly into editing mode if you need them (for example, when cropping). Still, otherwise, everything else happens automatically for you with no need for complicated instructions or tutorials.
- You can also choose from tons of pre-made themes if none seem appealing enough for your taste; this way, every time you open a Pic Monkey account get greeted by something different from what had previously last time around!
6. Pixelmator
Pixelmator is a powerful and intuitive image editor that makes photo editing easy and fun. Its features include non-destructive layer support, professional color correction tools, advanced selection tools, a fast healing brush, sound blur effects, and more.
7. Sumopaint
Sumopaint is a free-to-use image editor that has tons of features and is easy to use. It’s suitable for beginners and professionals alike, but if you are starting with digital painting, it may be better suited. Sumopaint has been around since 2008, so if you want something more modern than Photoshop (or GIMP), then this could be your new favorite tool.
8. Krita
Concept artists, illustrators, comic artists, and matte painters may all benefit from using Krita, a free and open-source painting tool. Powerful image editing capabilities include painting with watercolor wash or pencil on top of your artwork (painting in layers). You can also resize images without losing quality by using the powerful liquify tool that lets you distort an impression like never before! Krita also has many plugins available, so you can extend its functionality even further if necessary.
9. Pixlr Editor
Easily modify your photos online with Pixlr Editor’s free selection of filters, effects, and layers. It’s a browser-based app, so you can use it on whatever gadget you choose. The interface has the same features as Photoshop, but it feels much more intuitive and easier to use. Once you get used to using Pixlr Editor, there will be no reason not to use it instead of Photoshop!
10. Canva
Canva is a free online tool that allows you to create unique designs for your social media posts, blog posts, and more. The site has a massive library of templates that are easy to use and ready to go. Canva has been around for a while, but it is still the best alternative for beginners who want their images to look professional.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has given you some ideas on how to get creative with your photos and make them stand out. This list is incomplete, so feel free to explore other options! Remember that plenty of great tools can help you create unique images—and if none of these apps do what you need, then maybe it’s time for a change.
