Photoshop is the photo editing and manipulation software. Its many functions and its capabilities have cemented its place in the design world. Heck, even the word “Photoshop” is a verb, much like “Google”.
But while Photoshop is the omnipresent photo editing software, Adobe’s recent moves (READ: Creative Cloud) have prompted some people to look for alternatives to the software. Let’s face it. Photoshop is pricey, and the subscription-based model for Photoshop CC makes it a bit heavier on the wallet.
I’ve compiled some of the more prominent alternatives to Adobe Photoshop. Check them out below.
The list would never be complete unless we mention “GNU Image Manipulation Program” or GIMP for short. I think it is the best Photoshop alternative you’ll ever find.
The software supports a wide range of operating systems and file formats. Unlike Photoshop’s features, it also gives you access to a full set of tools. And if you really want that Photoshop feels, there’s a theme that makes GIMP mimic the Photoshop Interface.
Ever wish you could edit photos without the need to exit your browser and open up your photo editing software? Enter Pixlr, the best internet-based photo editing tool.
With hundreds of effects and overlays and the usual image editing functionalities, Pixlr is a great free alternative to Photoshop. Of course, you’ll need a good amount of RAM because this will definitely double your Chrome/Firefox memory. Pixlr is also available for iOS and Android.
Colorcinch is a must-have photo editing tool designed to take your creative projects to the next level. Colorcinch transforms ordinary graphics into spectacular masterpieces by seamlessly integrating user-friendly features with professional-grade capabilities.
With its simple interface and rich set of functions, Colorcinch lets you easily enhance and tweak images, bringing your vision to life. Colorcinch offers many customizable options –photo color changer, background remover, overlays, filters, and effects to ensure that every piece of your content shines out –
from stunning photo edits to compelling graphic designs.
Ignite your imagination and leave a lasting impression with Colorcinch – where creativity meets precision.
Seashore is another open-source photo editing tool, this time exclusive for Mac. It is based on Mac’s Cocoa framework. It features gradients, textures, and anti-aliasing for both text and brush strokes and supports multiple layers and alpha channel editing.
Seashore is based on GIMP’s technology, although not quite as powerful. It aims to serve the most basic image editing needs, so Seashore is perfect for you if you’re not doing anything advanced.
Do you know other free Adobe Photoshop alternatives? Share your thoughts below.