Completing photo editing tasks is often a part of the daily routine for many people who work online. Whether you’re writer, marketing, technician, or social media manager, you need to have the right tools on hand to edit images on the fly. And if you’re on a budget, you need free photo editing tools that can simplify your daily workload and empower you to produce effective results.
What follows is a collection of free photo editing tools you can download right now to edit photos for any purpose.
1. GIMP
GIMP is a well-known free photo editor. It’s specifically known for being open-source and includes many of the same tools as premium software products like Photoshop. It includes features that suit beginners and professionals and can be used for creating layer masks, gifs, and more.
2. Canva
Canva is another fantastic photo editor but this one is browser-based so you can use it from any device and from anywhere. It has many templates pre-built and ready to use for creating social media posts, blog headers, posters, invitations, and more. It also has an abundant database of free graphics and images you can use in your designs.
3. PhotoScape X
Another option you may wish to consider is PhotoScape. This free tool includes a number of features for beginners, like one-click photo enhancements. However, it also caters to advanced users with shape crops, clone stamps, and a RAW conversion feature.
4. Paint.NET
Paint.NET is a straightforward and easy-to-use photo editing tool that’s stood the test of time. It includes everything you need to perform basic photo edits quickly. It doesn’t have a ton of advanced features but not every person needs them. This is a great choice for the beginner demographic.
5. Apple Photos
Apple Photos is pre-built into Mac computers, iPads and iPhones and for many, it might be just be all they need to edit photos on the fly. It doesn’t have a ton of features or filters but it does easy-to-use quick edit options for exposure, cropping, and retouching. It’s well worth a look if you don’t anticipate needing complex editing tools.
6. Fotor
Fotor is a more robust free photo editor that includes a range of features appropriate for beginner and advanced users. It has one-click tools like a wrinkle remover and teeth whitener as well as tools for prepping images for sharing on social media. It comes with many enhancement options for adding stickers, frames, and more images as well.
7. Darktable
You might wish to check out Darktable if you’re looking for a free version of Adobe Lightroom. This photo editor includes standard image editing features as well as the lens, perspective, and layout options Lightroom offers.
8. Picktorial
Here’s another tool you should check out. Pictorial is Mac-only software that includes a set of basic features for free. However, if you want to gain access to more complex editing tools, you will need to pay for an annual subscription.
9. BeFunky
BeFunky is another freemium option but it includes a wide range of tools you can use without shelling out a penny. Some of these features include image adjustments and effects. If you want access to a wider range of options, however, you will need to upgrade to the premium annual subscription.
10. Pixlr
Last on our list is Pixlr. This tool has a free tier that includes web-based and desktop image editing options. Mobile and desktop versions of this software are available and you can use them to make simple edits to images as well as apply overlays and image effects.
Check Out These Free Photo Editing Tools
Before you dive into your next project, make sure you have a quality photo editor on hand. The above tools offer a range of features that suit a multitude of purposes. Be sure to explore them all to discover which best suits your project needs. While you’re at it, check out our collection of 90+ Photo Editing Tips.