Let’s face it, even at $10/month for a year-long subscription, Photoshop is still a pretty big expense. So, is there a way to edit your photos aside from applying Twitter and Instagram filters or making the commitment to paying for Photoshop for a whole year? The answer is YES!
There are a bunch of free online photo editing websites available out there, and we’ve compiled a list of our favourites.
GIMP
GIMP is a downloadable Image Manipulation Program that allows you make a lot of the same adjustments that you’d be able to perform in Photoshop. It features tools from simple colour adjustments to more complex features like fixing barrel distortion and vignetting. With it’s wide array of functions GIMP provides tutorials on how to best use the program. It’s downloadable on Linux, MAC OS X and MS Windows.
http://www.gimp.org/screenshots/
Photoshop Express Editor
Run Photoshop Express Editor right on your browser to make simple edits to your shots like exposure, sharpness and white balance. The site allows you to quickly make changes by choosing one of its preset adjustment options, but doesn’t allow you to make precise changes with a slider like those in the full Photoshop version. The editor currently only accepts JPEGs for editing, and so it isn’t the best option for those of you who prefer to shoot in RAW.
Pixlr
Another web-based editor with lots of features to play around with. Pixlr has a little bit of a head up over Photoshop Express Editor because the adjustments allow you to use a slider to tweak just how much change you want to apply. The filter options are pretty crazy with the option to turn your photo into a heat map or kaleidoscope. We could see how Pixlr might keep someone occupied for hours.
Paint.net
Windows users that are a fan of Paint but need something more advanced are in luck. Paint.net has the familiar paint interface but allows you to get more in-depth in your editing. It goes so far as to allow you to use layers and special 3D effects. Can’t seem to find what you want in Paint.net? Connect with other users in their forum to get help.
http://www.getpaint.net/screenshots/pdn35_kirkland.jpg
PicMonkey
If you just want to play around and add some quick filters to your photos PicMonkey is for you. It has a cute and easy to use interface with sliders to change filters like exposure, colour and sharpness. Add a polaroid frame, some hearts and a nice outer space background and you’re set.
Practice editing your photos with these photo editing websites, and by the time summer rolls around you’ll be ready to take the plunge into Photoshop in our Editing Teen Camp!