The 16 best free photo editing software 2023

Catalogging: 6/10

Choose photo editing software: free or paid ? Lightroom, Photoshop,… ?

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A bit like the question of material, it often comes back: What to choose as software To touch up your photos and sublimate them ? What are the Best retouching software images to meet the needs of photographers ? What differences between them, the free photo editing software is they credible, if so which, and Adobe Photoshop is an essential tool for my photographer arsenal ?

These are legitimate questions, because when you know nothing about it and the offer is plethoric, as much to say that It’s a real labyrinth To choose the right photo editing software, and decide whether or not to pay or not.

Note that I use the term “retouching” in a very generic way in the title, in the sense of ” any modification that we make on the image “, But when you need to be more precise, I prefer to distinguish post-processing, development, and local retouching. I will talk about it very soon ��

Small point definitions ! In the rest of the article, the term ” post treatment »Include two steps:

– THE development, which consists in applying adjustments that apply globally To the picture

– There local retouching, who designates all work located on the image (as its name suggests)

Note that on the web, not everyone makes this choice of definitions (there is no consensus on this subject). Simply, any serious article must properly define the terms from the start ��

But first, as I know that some are very in a hurry, I will give you software names just below, then we will then come back in detail !

1. The best free or paid image editing software
   • Adobe Lightroom Classic
   • Adobe Lightroom
   • DXO Photolab
   • Capture One
   • Darktable
   • Rawtherapee
   • Art (Another Rawtherapee)
   • Luminar ai
   • Photoshop
2. 3 types of function for the photographer
   • RAW development
   • Sorting, ranking and cataloging
   • Local retouching
   • Do you need 3 software ?
   • Dermate the choice of software !
3. Lightroom, the all-in-one ideal for the photographer
4. Other paid photo editing software (apart from Lightroom Classic)
   • RAW post-processing software
     • Adobe Lightroom (short)
     • DXO Photolab
     • Capture One
     • Luminarai
   • Paid RAW post-processing software that I do not recommend
     • Affinity Photo
     • On1 Photo Raw
     • Photoworks
     • Photoscape X
   • Photo sorting software, classification and cataloging
     • Photomechanic
     • Narrative select
     • Acdsee Photo Studio Home
   • Local retouching software
5. Free photo editing software
   • RAW post-processing
     • Rawtherapee
     • Darktable
     • Capture One Express (for Sony or Fujifilm)
     • NX Studio (for Nikon)
     • Silkypix (for Panasonic)
     • Olympus Workspace (for Olympus)
   • Sorting, ranking and cataloging
     • Xn view mp
     • Simpler solutions: Google and Apple Photos
   • Local retouching
6. What to think of online photo editing software ?
   • �� We have prepared you a bonus video in which we compare Lightroom and DXO Photolab�� software

The best free or paid image editing software

here are the best free or paid photo editing software and their key characteristics:

Adobe Lightroom Classic

The ideal “all in one” retouching software available in subscription.

Adobe Lightroom

The light version of the previous software with photos on the cloud.

DXO Photolab

The best retouching software under permanent license (no subscription).

Capture One

The best retouching software For advanced management of colorimetry. Reserved for a more informed audience.

Darktable

One of the best retouching software free, powerful, but which nevertheless takes time of handling.

Rawtherapee

A Free retouching software and multi-platform (Windows, Mac and Linux), ergonomic for very satisfactory results.

Art (Another Rawtherapee)

A retouching software Windows compatible, developed from Rawtherapee and which wants to be very ergonomic.

Luminar ai

The cheapest of retouching software under permanent license. Excellent ergonomics.

Photoshop

THE retouching software The best known photo but which does not offer cataloging, and does not keep the history of modifications on the RAW file after recording.

Now let’s get back into detail: What do we really need as a tool as a photographer ? Above all of 2 essential tools, and possibly an optional third. It will determine which programs are necessary and how to choose them.

3 types of function for the photographer

RAW development

This is the main function you need as a photographer: being able to develop your RAW files in software. When I say develop, I insist on the term: these are settings that apply generally to the image, and are quite subtle and simple to set up, in Simply moving some sliders : adjust the white balance, contrast, saturation, colors, play on sharpness and decrease noise.

Speaking of RAW development, do not forget to calibrate your screen to show you loyal colors. I explain everything to you in this full article on photo screens ��

It is therefore a question here of sublimating his image by giving him the pep necessary that we cannot have in JPEG, but not to make heavy modifications, such as delete certain elements of an image. Sublimate your photos, This is the name of my flagship training on post-processing in case you do not know ��

Once you are satisfied with your settings on your RAW file, you can export it in image format (for example JPG) and share it. But your original RAW file will always remain intact : we say that The modification is non-destructive.

It may seem trivial to you now, especially if you start, but it gets very quickly essential, And I advise you to start as soon as possible, otherwise you will end up with tens of thousands of photos to sort all.

Local retouching

I am doing well with development, and voluntarily, because we do not necessarily use the same tools for that: Local retouching consists in modifying only part of the image. It has several levels: you can simply touch up differently from the areas of the image (contrast, colors, sharpness, etc.), or conversely spend 3 hours touching up one by one hair on a portrait photo. With all possible intermediaries obviously ��

Note that in software that includes local development and retouching, the latter is recorded in the list of non-destructive operations.

In the majority of situations and for amateur use, you will only have Little or no need to do local touch -up. In my opinion, here are the main things you will need to do sometimes (not all the time):

• Apply Different settings with 2 zones of the image, typically the sky and the floor for example (see photo above)
• enhance a subject by applying different settings to it (in terms of brightness in particular)
• retouch your photos at the level of a few annoying details : Remove dust on the sensor, hide a few buttons, eliminate an annoying element (an electric cable)
• do a few Beauty retouching : illuminate the eyes, whiten the teeth, soften the skin a little

And that’s about everything you need in your daily photo practice, for the majority of you.

Do you need 3 software ?

By reading this, you might fear that 3 software will be necessary as a photographer, each for their function. In reality, these functions are sometimes grouped in a single software, which reduces work, simplifying things and not juggling between several different tools, each with their codes.

Only here, in general the more it is practical, the more it is requested, the more expensive �� Do not expect to find the all-in-one ergonomic, efficient and free solution. But rest assured, hope is not lost !

Dermate the choice of software !

Choosing a photo software is far from being an easy task, I grant you, but you shouldn’t take the lead too much either.

A good way to choose is to test several – thanks to test versions – among those that I will quote just after.

These software that I will recommend to you have the essential technical functions to do your post-processing from A to Z (Catalogage, non-destructive RAW development, local retouching), but it is important that you also take into account The experience you have had with this or that software.

It is specific to everyone, but since you will spend a little time on this software, as much as this moment is pleasant for you, is it not ? Some tracks to precisely assess this subjective aspect:

• Do you like the interface, is it intuitive for you ?
• The main tools are easy to find and simply presented ? For example, if you need to click 10 times before you can apply a graduated filter, it can annoy you ��

Obviously, the price criterion will take into account, depending on your use of use and your budget. But be aware that it is more easily tended to spend money in hardware (boxes and objectives) than in software, while the latter are part of the photographic process.

Finally, know that If you limit yourself to the software mentioned below, There is no software much better than others in terms of processing power. You can even get satisfactory results with all the main software, even free, it is rather a story of tolerance for frustration !

Myself I use Lightroom, but most likely, if I had started with Capture One or Dxo Photolab 10 years ago, I will still be there today !

Dedramatize this choice and go take photos, Because it is not the choice of software itself that will impact your destiny as a photographer, but rather how you will use it ! A bit like the camera: this is not the brand that counts but what you are going to create with.

Having too much time to choose the software is a form of procrastination, know it ��

On these good words, let’s start !

Lightroom, the all-in-one ideal for the photographer

You’ve probably heard about it: Adobe Lightroom Classic (this is his full name) is a very well known software for photographers. I’m probably not going to be surprised if you follow me a little: for me, This is the ideal solution for photographers. Indeed, it absolutely includes All in a single reliable and efficient software.

In other words, within the same software, you can both sort your photos, THE develop, make a little local retouching If necessary, and at the end catalog your images with notes, keywords, and even export them directly from the software to your favorite online gallery (Flickr, Facebook, 500PX, website).

Look for example what I can do entirely in Lightroom in an animal photo:

If you want to see other examples of RAW development, I invite you to take a look at my series of videos “Give me your RAW”, where I retouch the photos of the subscribers, without preparation, to make it natural ��

In short, Lightroom does everything, very good, it is Ergonomic and well thought out, So I don’t see any reason not to adopt it. The only problem is that it is obviously paying. Its price is 12 €/month with the Creative Cloud for the photo (which includes Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom very short, that I evoke lower, as well as 20 GB of online storage), and there are regular offers at € 10/month for new customers, or even less.

A tip so as not to miss the discounts of the Adobe Creative Cloud on Amazon (and invest at that time): use Keepa To see price history. Then set up an alert to be warned as soon as the price descends under a threshold. At a time when I write these lines, I see for example that the price has dropped to € 9.20/month and even € 7.80/month over limited periods.
Tell me in comments if you know similar tips for other online sellers !

You can try it for free for 1 month on the Adobe website, which allows you to be sure that you want to put this sum ��

Another advantage of using the same photo retouching software as everyone is that you will find tons of tutorials and videos explanatory on the software, which will help all the more its handling.

Frankly, if you can afford this expense, that you do not want to annoy yourself too much to test several software (to use this time to take photos for example ��), take Lightroom you will not regret it. And I’m not paid for by Adobe to tell you that, it’s just a user experience that I am to save you time.

It is compatible Windows and Mac, But unfortunately not Linux.

ATTENTION : do not confuse it with Adobe Lightroom very short, which is much more software light And limit, since he was originally a Computer adaptation of the Lightroom Mobile application. I know, it is not very easy to follow, and giving two close names to different software is not very smart … just remember that the complete software is Lightroom Classic �� For Adobe Lightroom very short, we come back just after.

Other paid photo editing software (apart from Lightroom Classic)

If you do not want to adopt Lightroom Classic for an extravagant reason (for example if the boss of Adobe cut your hand with a lightsaber and you blame him a little: D), but you are still ready to spend to post-processing software, here are some alternative For the 3 functions we need.

Everything I quote you here are alternatives credible (= software with good value for money, the basic functions of the trio Catalogging – Development – Local retouching and pleasant ergonomics). I will not dwell at a long time on each, because the purpose of this article is to provide a Simple solution to the question of choosing retouching software Photo, not to confuse yourself by making a full panorama of existing software.

Precision : If some software is not present here, it is because I do not judge them advanced enough to do a job of post-processing a little pushed, or that they have other crippling defects that make the post -laborious treatment.

I did a part with the software that I do not recommend. The idea is not to put them in the pillory forever eh �� but to save you time. This list will evolve according to the corrections made by software publishers !

RAW post-processing software

Regarding RAW development, there are many credible paid alternatives.

Adobe Lightroom (short)

Launched in 2017, it is therefore a separate software of the Lightroom Classic of Adobe – already presented above – but which resembles it. It is included in the Creative Cloud offer for the photo, but you can buy it separately.

Here are its particularities:

• It is a softwarecloud -based : this means that your catalog and your original files (the RAW that you post-catch) are required online and not locally on a hard drive as is the case with Lightroom Classic
• Since the files are online, the application works at a time on your phone, tablet or computer.
• Lightroom is thought to be more General public : it does not include not certain functions of Lightroom Classic, however very useful, as Changes history, Before/after visualization tools, and many others.

Its price is 12 €/month With the Lightroom formula with 1TTO (this formula does not include Adobe Photoshop ni Lightroom Classic, note well !))

With this completely online software, I have the impression thatAdobe holds A promising concept for the future, But too ahead of his time ! Indeed, the storage capacity of 1TO will limit you quickly if you take a lot of photos, and Adobe invoices you 10 €/month all to additional.

So we end up with Software restrained in possibilities, With a limited photo storage, without Photoshop, and all at the same price as the Creative Cloud for the photo.

And if you are often on the go far from your hard drive containing your RAW files, it can be the solution ?

Well not really, for at least two reasons:

• Lightroom Classic already includes a “dynamic glimpse” function, which stores a lighter version of your RAW in your catalog, for Allow you to continue post-work When your main hard drive is disconnected.
• The Creative Cloud formula for the photo already includes Lightroom very short (in addition to Lightroom Classic, Photoshop and 20GB online storage, you follow me ?)). So basically the only thing that the Lightroom formula brings you very short It’s 1TB online storage. Let’s say that you really need to want your 1 to !

In short, you understood, I recommend the Creative Cloud offer for the photo that has much better value for money.

You can always use Lightroom on your tablet or smartphone by synchronizing certain dynamic collections from Lightroom Classic !

You can nevertheless try the formula for free Lightroom with 1 to For 1 month on Adobe’s site, to convince you yourself ��

Benefits :

• User -friendly interface (similar to that of Lightroom Classic but simplified)
• Basic post-processing functions RAW & Catalogage
• Post-processing RAW possible at any time on smartphone, tablet and computers (online files only)

Disadvantages:

• 12 €/month, less good value for money than Creative Cloud for the photo
• Online storage of 1 to too fair, 10 €/month per additional !
• Absence of certain useful functions from Lightroom Classic

DXO Photolab

DXO Photolab (formerly DXO Optics Pro), is an excellent French software, particularly efficient in the Correction of optical defects (distortion, chromatic aberrations, etc.), but also with regard to noise and clearness.

You will find functions equivalent to those of Lightroom Classic, with often a slightly different name. Ergonomics are excellent, the tools are easily found, and the software is fast.

For each function, the software even offers Personalized pre-regulating at each image, which can constitute a starting point in your post-processing (if you wish, of course !))

DXO has also bought u-point technology which allows a fairly different and intuitive local touch-up (basically, you have sliders that are directly displayed in the vicinity of the local retouching area), and the NIK Collection plugins which allow a different approach to black and white for example (these plugins are optional). The software is also good for reducing digital noise and correction of optical defects. I will not detail here, the best is still to test for yourself, thanks to the trial version 30J.

If you are allergic to subscription offers, In my opinion, this is the best value for money for a permanent license on the market today.

It is offered to 139 € About in essential version (which already includes the tools that interest us) or € 219 in Elite version, and is Windows and Mac compatible.

Benefits :

• 30J test version
• Ergonomic software with most RAW & cataloging post-treatment functions
• Fast
• Powerful and innovative correction algorithms (especially U points)
• Available in permanent license at only € 139 for the essential version

Disadvantages:

• No virtual collections (allows you to group photos located in different files)
• The user community is less important than for Lightroom

Capture One

Capture One is software that has risen in popularity in recent years, and offers excellent possibilities for post-processing photo. Many say that he is even better than Lightroom on this, especially on Colorimetry settings, even if personally I did not see a fairly important difference To justify going from the excellent Cataloggage of Lightroom (although Capture One includes this function).

He also offers work by layers, As we could do in Adobe Photoshop. It offers More possibilities When you’re an expert, But it is not always an advantage, because it can complicate things, especially by starting.

In addition, the software still costs 349 € for a permanent license, which is not to spend at once ! You have however 30 days of free trial To get an idea and decide if you prefer it to Lightroom, and you can choose to subscribe to the subscription formula that goes 18 € to 29 €/month depending on the chosen version. Windows and Mac compatible.

Benefits :

• 30J test version
• Ergonomic software with the RAW & Cataloggage post-processing functions
• Fine colorimetric settings and layers management (for the most expert)
• Available in permanent license

Disadvantages:

• Expensive: € 349 in permanent license, 18 € to 29 €/month in subscription (annual or monthly)
• Potentially longer to take control when you start

Luminar ai

You know, the software that makes its advertisement entirely on its sky replacement functions !

As this function did not excite me more than that, I had dragged my feet to test it and it is now done !

And you know what ? Software ergonomics is surprisingly successful. What marked me was not La-Super-Function-Qui-Permet-de-Ded-des-Montgolfières-Ou-des-Cœurs-Dans-le-Ciel, but utilisation facility and the presence of the main cataloging (stars), development (basic settings, curves), and local retouching tools (graduated and radial filters are a real happiness to use). We immediately understand everything.

On the other hand, AI tools are often black boxes of which it is difficult to understand the effect (apart from the function bokeh which works on the portraits which stand out from the background).

In short, it is a shame that their marketing is completely turned on the replacement of sky and functions based on artificial intelligence. Because in my opinion, the great strength of the software is not there, but rather in the fact of Offer the main Lightroom tools in a permanent license at € 62.

Despite my powerful computer, I had noticed in the past a slowness of the software. This is no longer the case: who knows, the engineers from Luminar may have heard me ��

Benefits :

• The price: only € 62, permanent license
• Well thought out ergonomics of the tabs “Basic tools” and “local masking”, fast software

Disadvantages:

• No virtual photo copy (to test two different post-work in the same photo)
• Basic cataloging: you can mark the photos of a heart but no keywords
• AI -based functions are quite coarse except “portrait with bokeh” which works in some cases

Paid RAW post-processing software that I do not recommend

I know I’m not going to make myself only friends with this paragraph, but too bad, since my goal is to help you without a wooden tongue ! I created this section to share with you the paid software that I tested and which in my opinion present A major major defect.

This may be An essential function that is missing (for example keep the history of the settings to be able to come back to it later), a dysfunction (RAW treatment algorithm, excessive slowness), or bad ergonomics.

Obviously, this is not a black list engraved in marble. Software will be able to go into the previous part as soon as I see an update that corrects the defect (this was the case of Luminar recently) !

Nevertheless, I invite you to test for yourself to make your own opinion like Saint Thomas. And if by testing you realize that the defect is repaired, signal it in the comments, it will help me be more responsive on the updates ��

Affinity Photo

A competitor has come off for some time: Affinity Photo. THE criticisms are very good, and it also allows retouch his raws.

Affinity Photo is unique software, since it combined Both post-processing RAW and complete local retouching at Photoshop. On the other hand, like Photoshop it does not offer integrated sorting and cataloging.

Before giving you my opinion on the software, let me summarize how a post-processing RAW takes place under Affinity:

• It all starts with the opening of your RAW file in the software
• Then the development takes place as in any other classic software. It should be noted that the Affinity Development Interface is really very intuitive and ergonomic, of the same level as Lightroom or Capture One or even above certain functions (it is a hell of compliment on my part, come into account !)). You will find all the tools, including local retouching (graduated and radial filters to modify part of the image). It’s really a good surprise for software much cheaper than its competitors ! We find the history of all the changes to the RAW file, as in other non-destructive post-treatment software.
• Once the post-processing is finished, you will have to Click on “Develop” And Affinity will create a file with the extension .AFPHOTO (equivalent to .PSD On Photoshop). At that time, all Photoshop type tools are unlocked to move on to an advanced touch-up. But unhappiness, All the history of your post-treatment RAW has disappeared, You can no longer go back !

You will understand, first enthusiastic about the ergonomics of the software interface, I didn’t like it at all The fact that we cannot keep the history of the RAW file settings. The software editor declares that it is a non-destructive post-processing because the original RAW file is not changed. Admittedly, but once the post-processing is made you can no longer come back on it, and it can be very frustrating if like me, You often post your photos in several times, to achieve the rendering you are looking for.

I would have preferred less advanced local touch -up possibilities, and a real reversibility RAW post-processing.

In short, you might think that the idea of ​​software that is both post-processing RAW and local retouching complete with Photoshop can be good, but I’m not sure it’s such a good idea for photographers. This software is in my opinion excellent but rather intended for touch -ups. Its big advantage remains its price: only 55 € ! (with a free trial version to get an idea)).

Benefits :

• The price: only 55 €, permanent license
• Only one software to post-catch your RAW and do the retouching of advanced images
• Very well thought out ergonomics, fast software

Disadvantages:

• No cataloging
• No recording of the RAW changes history (it is very annoying)

On1 Photo Raw

This software works well and has all key functions, even if the choices of the interface are questionable (why therefore add dedicated “portraits” and “sky” menus in addition to the development tab ?))

At 110 € per permanent license, I find that this software does not have enough arguments in its favor to be convincing. You might as well choose the excellent DXO Photolab in essential version which has a more ergonomic interface and high -performance treatment algorithms.

But test for yourself, there is a 15 J test version !

Photoworks

It had started so well for this software developed for Windows. The essential functions are there and easy to handle in a very User-friendly.

At one point, I push the loud shadows cursor and realize that the image becomes very gray, as if I worked on a JPG. After a few tests on the recovery of highlights and dark tones, I realize that there is really a concern with the RAW file processing algorithm.

It feels like the software is working on the JPG file included in the original RAW !

It would be quite consistent with the price of the perpetual license, at only 23 euros.

Despite my research in the software settings, I failed to elucidate this mystery. So if you have the answer, tell me in comments, thank you !

In the current state of things, I therefore advise you to flee this software ��

Photoscape X

The interface of this software is pulled by hair, and you cannot even test the curved tool in the test version. I failed to find the local retouching tool: very bad sign for the ergonomics of Photoscape X.

Fortunately, it’s not like there are no other software with which you will be much more at ease !

Photo sorting software, classification and cataloging

Photomechanic

Photomechanic is software much used by pros manipulate Many photos for customers (Portrait, wedding photographers, etc.))

The idea of ​​this software is to allow you to make an effective and fast sorting Before importing your images into your favorite post-treatment software.

Indeed, Photomechanic Displays RAW files at lightning speed And therefore allows you to save time and comfort.

It is certainly very efficient, but costs still 130 € and is only in English. On the other hand it fits perfectly with Lightroom. So for the amateur it’s probably a little expensive for that, but let’s say that if you are going to professionalize, it can be worth it: 30 days of free trial will decide you ! ��

Benefits :

• Effective tool for quickly visualize Many photos in RAW and take a first sorting (stars notes, keywords, colors)
• Good communication with Lightroom (via files .XMP created next to RAW)

Disadvantages:

• Paying: 130 €
• in English

Narrative select

Narrative Select is software arrived in 2022 which comes to jostle a little Photomechanic !

Like the latter, it is ultra-fast to display RAW files and make a first sorting.
Thanks to AI, it is also capable of detecting faces and helping you assess the clarity and opening of the eyes of your subjects.

It may seem anecdotal said like that, but in use it prevents you from zooming in the image on group photos to check the faces one by one. For use in marriage or family photo, this function therefore represents a significant time saving !

Local retouching software

For local retouching, this is where the purchase of dedicated software can possibly to justify oneself. If you use Lightroom, You will probably not have no need, Unless you want to do very heavy touch -up.

The king of the jungle is obviously Adobe Photoshop, undisputed master. He greatly exceeds the features that a photographer needs, And you will probably use it at 10 % of its capacities (which is already enormous).

It should be noted that Photoshop also allows you to develop RAW files (via your camera RAW module), but as for Affinity You will no longer be able to go back Once the file has been saved. This is the reason why I did not include it in the “Post-processing software” part.

It is now available only atMonthly subscription (which made a lot of teeth cringe, for 37 €/month. There is still an offer that can be interesting: Photoshop and Lightroom for 12 €/month . There already, it’s worth more !

You can also turn to Affinity Photo, which I mentioned above. Only 55 € (with a free trial version to get an idea)).

If you are on Mac, Pixelmator Pro can be a good alternative to Adobe Photoshop. It is offered at 40 € on the App Store.

Free photo editing software

Obviously, to pay for software is not possible, and fortunately There are free solutions credible. I am often asked the question: are they as well that paid software ?

Most often, no: there is no secret, we always have it for his money. Which does not mean that we cannot get good results with these photo editing software. Simply, they necessarily have more weaknesses.

Most often, they concern ergonomics (the software may look like a gas factory and you will take more time), the rapidity (the delay between the displacement of a cursor and the effect on the image), and finally the performance software (processing algorithms are sometimes less successful, such as for digital noise).

Software ergonomics are important for at least two reasons:

• If you prefer to take pictures like me rather than spending time behind the computer, you might as well make this moment as pleasant as possible !
• If I go struggling to find a function, that I have to watch 4 hours of YouTube video to find it, or that the software drives each time I apply an adjustment or crashes regularly, it will get me up, and above all To discourage me to experiment with several treatments in the same photo. And therefore make my post-translations less faithful to my initial intention.

So you see, the ergonomics of software is not just comfort of use, it goes much further than that !

RAW post-processing

Rawtherapee

In terms of free RAW post-processing software, I clearly recommend Rawtherapee : he is multi-platform (Windows, Mac and Linux), available in French, Quite ergonomic and well thought out, and delivers satisfactory results.

It is not free from faults either: noise is more present than in its paid competitors, the interface is a complex chouilla in places (you just have to ignore complicated features to focus on the essentials), and it is not very fast. Local touch -up tools (degraded filter and radial filter) are more limited than on their paid competitors (only exposure can be set). Despite that, it remains A great free alternative, Very good to start post-processing.

Note that this software has made a little – Art (Anotherrawtherapee) – which wants to be less gas machine and more accessible, but for the moment only available under Windows (so I will have to wait until I have a PC on hand to test it !))

Darktable

Darktable presents performance similar to Rawtherapee. Its interface is more modeled on that of Lightroom, So you will not be disoriented if you come from the trial version 30J ��

Note that the software interface Darktable is available in French, like that of Rawtherapee.

The basic stages of development are grouped in the “Basic modules” tab, but unlike Rawtherapee not all settings are available by default in the interface, and you must add those you need from the section “More of modules “, and that’s where it gets complicated.

Actually, It is not desirable to activate all modules, Because some are older than others and will duplicate.

For example, in the Darktable community, you will find developers who advise you to activate only the following modules:

• Exposure
• Film RVB
• Color balance
• Local contrast
• Objective correction
• White balance

I am for free software, but here it feels like the modules are not sustainable in time and can become obsolete from one version to another. Not very reassuring for software in which you will invest in time and which is supposed to be able to display your post-Traités RAW in 10 years to come !

There are two other points that have unfolded me:

The fact that RAW files are displayed with a all-gray (and frankly ugly, say it) rendering). Usually, software starts from a color profile defined by the camera, generally quite neutral but not all gray either. It is quite demotivating to have to resume all the colorimetry of an image from zero !

In short, if you choose Darktable, you will probably need A little learning time And a lot of perseverance to take charge of other modules and understand their respective effects ..

Note that coming from Lightroom where everything is very ergonomic, my opinion may seem a little “hard” to the most experienced Darktable users �� This remains my user experience, subjective by nature, and with the habit you could do this software fully configurable (Especially if you are the type to like to put your hands in the sludge in computer science ^^)

There is now a Windows version, Even if I understand that she still had a few bugs given her youth. Mac and Linux versions do not pose any concern ��

Capture One Express (for Sony or Fujifilm)

If you have a Sony or Fujifilm device, you can opt for this light Capture One version. Ergonomics are very good, but it is just missing the local retouching tools (graduated and radial filter). It is understood, otherwise DXO would no longer sell his baby capture one ! ��

NX Studio (for Nikon)

It is free software for Nikon devices owners, whose RAW files are in .NAVE

The main cataloging and post-processing features are present, even if the ergonomics of the application are quite rudimentary. For local retouching, it seems that the software is limited to radial filters. It’s already pretty good for free !

Silkypix (for Panasonic)

This tool has a very archaic ergonomics that really don’t make you want to work (it feels like Windows 98 !) The local touch -up tool is very complicated to use, it seems that we only have a brush.

In short, I advise you to go your way.

Olympus Workspace (for Olympus)

Olympus software to process files .Orf is quite basic, but the basic settings of post-processing are present. No local retouching possible. Another negative point is the slowness of the software between the moment you make the modification and application to the final image. We feel that Olympus has not put much heart (nor means) to the development of this software.

There is necessarily other free software that I have not tested. Some are not listed because it is not suitable for treating RAW (like Paint or Gimp among others).

A priori I did not miss a Exceptional outsider software who would surpass all the others. But if you discover a nugget, let’s say in comments ! ��

Sorting, ranking and cataloging

Free RAW post-processing software presented here integrate a cataloging function, but this is not always the case for paid software presented above (Affinity Photo). Here are some free cataloging software.

Xn view mp

One of the best free software, and that I recommend your eyes closed, is XNVIEW MP : It is multi-platform compatible (Windows, Mac and Linux), offers all the features you will need, in short, if you want a choice that does not require reflection, it is xnview MP that you have to choose.

Simpler solutions: Google and Apple Photos

There are also simpler solutions (a little too much for the serious photographer I find, but free and better than nothing to start): Google Photos, and software Apple photos If you work under Mac.

Local retouching

Finally, if you want to make local touch -ups (remove red eyes, soften the skin, etc.), there is a big winner in free photo editing software: Gimp. It is a little less simple ergonomically at first glance, although it has made great progress recently, but in the end The features remain similar to Adobe Photoshop : layers, fusion masks, and different tools after all very classic.

It has the advantage of being quite popular to get Lots of tutorials or videos available on the net to control the tool. Especially since it is quite complete, and that you will use 10 %.

(Do not be stopped by the website in English, the software is translated into French.))

What to think of online photo editing software ?

We are now in the 1920s, and it is legitimate to ask the question: do the today Online photo editing software are credible for the photographer ?

Obviously, if you only want to do some touch -ups of contrast or brightness, today any web or smartphone application a little known (as Snapseed Or Can go For example) is able to give you satisfactory results.

But let’s be honest: if you have hit “Best photo editing software“In your search engine, it is undoubtedly that you are looking for something more advanced, No ?

These applications are not bad in itself, but they are Designed for the general public : they generally manage not RAW files, and even less the sorting and the cataloging of your large photo library. So it’s Not really a solution suitable for us, But it will be perfect to advise your friends who just want to touch up their photos quickly on their phone, just editing contrasts and colors.

And if you want to do that, note that Lightroom has a mobile app Who does this very well and can even synchronize with your computer !

Here, I hope this article will have helped you find out in different software and their features. It’s not that complicated, just have the right tool for the right things. There are solutions adapted to all preferences and all budgets, but if I had to end up, it is test !

Paid software generally offers a 15 or 30 -day trial version, Who allows you to get an idea and know if you want to spend to pay the software or not. But beware, if you test excellent software, you will find it difficult to do without after ! ��

Finally, I know that some of you are reluctant On the principle of paying software like Lightroom in the form of a subscription, which is added to those we already have (telephone, internet, etc.). That’s right, and I understand.

But let’s also keep in mind that in the same way as shooting, post-processing is a full-fledged step in creating a photo.

So if you hesitate between spending € 1000 in the new box that has just been released, or in the paying software on which you feel good (7 years of Lightroom license), that deserves reflection ! If really, you are opposed to the subscription, take DXO Photolab Essential, the best value for money in my opinion for a permanent license.

And don’t forget to share the article and go to take pictures ! ��

The 16 best free photo editing software [2023]

Good photo editing software will help you pass all your images to the next level. Whether you want to improve color tone, modify the background of an image, replace the color of the sky, apply an aesthetic filter, a photo mounting software will allow you to refine and enhance several aspects of your photographs. Also, you don’t need to spend a fortune in order to find an effective solution, several free photo software will meet all your photographic needs. Our article will therefore present the 16 best free photo editing software taking into account their strengths and limits, as well as a comparison table and a detailed tutorial which will allow you to have a better idea of ​​all creative possibilities Offering you.

Free version
Secure download
Download on mobile for iOS and Android.

• The 16 best free photo editing software
• How to touch up a photo for free?
• Comparison table for best free photo editing software
• Download the best free photo editing software
• Questions Fair – Photo retouching software

The 16 best free photo editing software

1. Photodirector Essential (recommended) – Best AI software for any type of user

Compatibility : Windows, Mac

Global mark : 9.5/10

Layer tools: 10/10

Catalogging: 10/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Facial recognition by artificial intelligence to organize your photos
• Replacement of the sky by AI
• Intelligent content management
• Mask assisted by AI
• Animation and photo dispersion
• Photo adjustment guided tools

Photodirector is a powerful photo editing software combining the possibilities of Lightroom processing and cataloging, with the powerful Photoshop editing tools, All in a simple and friendly interface.

The free Photodirector version will be more than enough to retouch your photos thanks to its advanced editing features. However, if you want to have access to several million images and music free of rights provided by ISTOCE directly from your software, you can go to the paid version for an unbeatable price.

Whether you want to retouch the white balance, use advanced features such as replacing the color of the sky with artificial intelligence or making simple touch -ups in order to share your creation on social networks, Photodirector will fill all your desires thanks to Easy to use tools.

What’s more, Photodirector has a “guided” tab which will allow beginners to take advantage of powerful features assisted by AI without having to make all the modifications manually. Thanks to this tab for example, you can delete the bottom of your image and replace it with a new more attractive background, use animation tools such as dispersion effect, use cartoon filters, generate stickers by AI, apply embellishment effects to perfect your skin or simply add decorative elements such as frames and filters.

While you are a beginner in photo editing or a confirmed user, Photodirector is certainly the best software for any type of user. The guided tools will satisfy beginners who will need assistance when setting up their project and the freedom of use of the various manual settings will allow confirmed users to manually make all the necessary settings.

Price: free, or choose the subscription of € 3.33 per month to have the extras

• User -friendly interface, easy to handle
• Guided tools facilitating retouching
• Tools assisted by AI to transform the ordinary into extraordinary
• Easy creation of photo entertainment
• Powerful but easy to use layers
• Regular updates

• Asks for some gigas of free space on your hard drive
• To subscribe is necessary to take advantage of the millions of images and audio tracks free of rights

Free version
Secure download
Download on mobile for iOS and Android.

2. GIMP – Best open -source software

Compatibility : Linux, macOS and Windows

Global mark : 7/10

Layer tools: 9/10

Catalogging: 4/10

Adapted to beginners: 6/10

Best features

• Adjustable brushes
• Content improvement
• Color adjustment
• Entertainment

Gimp is by far the best open-source software, allowing you to modify the interface so that it is ergonomic and saves you precious time.

This free and open source software offers a full range of photo editing tools without any limitation. It offers an interface and tools similar to Photoshop, It’s a good free alternative to Photoshop although having a little fewer tools.

The program proposes to use the edition of the layers in order to create photo montages while independently modifying each component of your images.

All basic tools such as reframing the use of mergers mask or the addition of text is obviously included in Gimp. This solution will therefore be perfect for users looking for simple photo editing software to master.

Price: free and free

• Layers, masks and integrated effects
• Free additional plugins
• Interface customization
• Regular updates

• Hardly optimal workflow
• Difficult navigation

3. Photofiltre 7 – Best choice for beginners

Compatibility : Windows

Global mark : 7/10

Layer tools: 7/10

Catalogging: 4/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Hundreds of filters available
• Automatic color management option
• Simple layer tools

Photofiltre 7 is free photo editing software from Photofiltre Studio X. It offers Windows PC basic retouching functions, color adjustment and visual effects.

This free photofilter version will be sufficient to improve the rendering of your images by adding filters and effects. Moreover, The different adjustment brushes will make it the best solution on our list for novice users wishing to correct several aspects of their shots with ease.

Price: free

• Easy to handle
• Basic adjustment tools
• Superposition with layers
• Many filters

• Old interface
• Limited functions
• Only on Windows

4. Adobe Photoshop – Best choice for pros

Compatibility : Windows, macos, iPados

Global mark : 8/10

Layer tools: 10/10

Catalogging: 5/10

Adapted to beginners: 4/10

Best features

• Layer edition
• 3D modeling
• Vector masks

The fact that people speak of “photoshoping” an image as opposed to “edit” an image said everything about the fact that Photoshop is the reference on the market and is considered an essential option for professional creators. The software offers a 7 -day free trial period provided you enter your bank details beforehand beforehand.

The large number of publishing tools present as well as the accuracy of each of its functionalities undoubtedly make it one of the best choices in terms of paid photo retouching software for experienced photographers.

Also, Photoshop recently introduced a new feature called “generative Fill” which offers users the possibility of adding content to a photo from a text, to enlarge an image in a harmonious way and even to delete unwanted elements by replacing them with what is supposed to be in the background..

Strongly recommended for experienced users, Photoshop will not be a solution suitable for people with solid knowledge in photo editing. In addition, the price of the software will not be justified if photo retouching is not your job. No worries, if you are looking for software that is very close to Photoshop without having to spend a large sum of money, you can consult our article The best alternatives to Photoshop.

Price: 7 free days then € 23.99 per minimum month

• Easy to handle
• Basic adjustment tools
• Superposition with layers
• Many filters

• Steep learning curve
• High cost
• Image processing

5. Movavi Picverse – Best choice for a simple touch -up

Compatibility : Windows, MacOS

Global mark : 7.5/10

Layer tools: 7/10

Catalogging: 8/10

Adapted to beginners: 8/10

Best features

• Deletion of undesirable objects
• Image restoration tools
• Style filters such as sepia, black and white and oil paint
• Improvements with one click

Movavi Picverse is a photo editing tool using certain AI features to improve images as well as to delete the background of an image.

Beyond the removal of objects and displacement of elements, the software offers a limited range of tools. You can adjust the size and orientation of your photo using crop, rotation, level and resizing functions or apply stylistic filters such as sepia, black & white and oil paint.

Although Movavi Picverse is a good photo editing solution with all basic tools and a very effective object deletion functionality, the most experienced users will be quickly limited by the low number of functions available.

On the other hand, if you only want to make small touch -ups, Movavi will be a very useful ally. Its direct and simplified interface will be perfectly suited to quickly correct the few faults that may appear on your images.

Price: Free, monthly subscription for extras

• Intelligent background removal
• Easy to handle tools
• Simple interface

• Limited free features
• Monthly subscription for more features

6. Lightroom – Best choice for image processing

Compatibility : Windows, macOS, iPad OS

Global mark : 7/10

Layer tools: 6/10

Catalogging: 10/10

Adapted to beginners: 4/10

Best features

• Intelligent corrections and adjustments
• RAW file processing
• Automatic faces detection

Adobe Lightroom is another software developed by Adobe, it is a Good choice for professional photographers wishing to make their photos more beautiful by image processing and catalog them.

Among all the features offered by Lightroom, those that have impressed us the most are the clarity tool to give an ultra realistic texture to your shots as well as the brightness tools which thanks to preset sliders will give a completely different appearance to Your original socket.

Price: 7 free days then € 11.99 per minimum month

• Image processing reference
• Efficient work flow
• Fluid navigation

• Steep learning curve
• High cost

7. Photos – Best choice for guided tools

Compatibility : Windows, MacOS

Global mark : 7/10

Layer tools: 6/10

Catalogging: 8/10

Adapted to beginners: 5/10

Best features

• Batching
• Efficient catalog

Photoscape is free photo editing software that will allow you to improve your images in various ways.

In addition to basic editing tools, Photoscape will also give you access to several advanced features such as for example a batch processing function, An integrated screenshot tool and a large amount of filters and effects that will embellish all your photos in an instant.

Also, whether for the creation of slideshow, photo collage or animated gif, this software will provide you with all the tools you may need. In addition, if you are looking for software providing guided features during the publishing process, then Photoscape will be the solution you need. Many tools such as replacement of color, adjustment of sharpness and more will be assisted. You will only have to drag the sliders to change the rendering.

Its unconventional interface could ask you for a little time of adaptation. However, once you are familiar with this solution, you can then pass all your images to the next level.

Price: Free with limitations or from 40 € for the paid version

• Guided retouching tools
• Large catalog of editing features
• Optimal working flow

• Somewhat muddled interface

8. DXO Photolab – Best choice for correction of the lens

Compatibility : Windows, MacOS

Global mark : 6.5/10

Layer tools: 2/10

Catalogging: 7/10

Adapted to beginners: 7/10

Best features

• Automatic lens correction
• Improved photos in low light
• Additional tools
• Advanced history
• RAW file conversion to jpeg

DXO Photolab is the best photo editing software for users needing lens correction tools. The automatic objective corrections of the program compensate for all possible objective defects, such as distortion, sharpness, chromatic aberrations, vignetting, etc.

Also, DXO Photolab is one of the best photo editing software thanks to its deepprime “artificial intelligence technology which will allow you to remove the mosaic effects and the noise of your images in order to obtain a quality photo exceptional.

This solution will be a perfect alternative for all professionals needing powerful software to perfect their media. On the other hand, the complex interface of photo software is a major obstacle for all neophyte people.

Price: 30 days free then 219 € after the trial period

• RAW treatment
• Full range of tools
• AI features
• Automatic adjustments

• Little intuitive interface to start
• Workflow

9. Picmonkey – Best choice for creations on social networks

Compatibility : Web browser

Global mark : 7/10

Layer tools: 6/10

Catalogging: 6/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Many thematic models
• Customizable collage
• Effects and filters
• Embellishment tools

Picmonkey offers an online photo editor that will interest bloggers, influencers or marketing and communication professionals. Its simple interface will allow you to find most of the features necessary for your creations quickly.

Picmonkey will be particularly effective for everything related to banners or publications on social networks. For example, you can use 9 format models for Facebook publications and 9 other Instagram publication models. The different models will allow you to create images to publish a new profile photo, post a story, create a cover for your personal pages and many more.

3 purchasing plans will be available after the free trial period. If you want to switch to one of the paid versions, we recommend that you go to the Pro version which offers the best quality/price ratio with a large range of features and free media

Price: Free trial 7 days, then from € 7.99 per month

• Quick image creation
• Adjustment tools
• Access to a collection of rights free of rights by Getty Images

• No automatic option to resize an image
• Export valid only with the subscription
• Only available online

10. Paint.Net – Best choice for minimalist touch -ups

Compatibility : Windows

Global mark : 8/10

Layer tools: 8/10

Catalogging: 6/10

Adapted to beginners: 8/10

Best features

• Customizable interface
• Layer tool
• Lots of export formats

Paint.Net is a free photo assembly program with several advanced features that will delight intermediate level photographers. The software is only available on Windows operating systems.

The number of options proposed by Paint.Net is impressive. For quick touch -ups, You can adjust the brightness, the contrast and the different levels of saturation of your images. Regarding more advanced touch -ups, this software offers a layer functionality that will allow you to create a surreal image by stacking several images on each other and then retouching them in order to ensure optimal rendering.

This software has very little defects, however the absence of a mask functionality and customizable brushes could frustrate users looking for very professional photo software.

Price: Free

• Easy and quick to use
• Several plug-ins
• Many backup formats

• Lack a few professional features

11. Pixlr – Best in -line solution

Compatibility : Web browser

Global mark : 7.5/10

Layer tools: 9/10

Catalogging: 7/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Layers
• Color correction
• Paint brushes

Pixlr publishing software is ideal for companies needing a quick solution for basic touch -ups. Beginners will find little support on the platform, although familiar users with Photoshop will probably be able to sail in the software fairly easily. Among all the in-line photo editing solutions, Pixlr is the one that provides the best results, especially thanks in particular to superb correction brushes to perfect areas of your images of your images. With 26 tools available on the left of the Pixlr interface, You will not miss a choice to improve your shots.

One of the strong points of Pixlr is the management of layers and masks tools as well as several essential editing features such as customizable brushes and visual effects that will greatly facilitate photo retouching of non-experienced users.

Unfortunately, the software does not provide users with a professional range of photo retouching options. In addition, the program will sometimes tend to appear slowly, resulting in frustrating and inconsistent movements of your mouse or your touchpad.

In addition, the banners advertising and the pages that are difficult to navigate reduce the workflow and the aesthetic attraction of the platform. That said, the simplified layout of Pixlr and a minimalist range of tools help simplify the publishing process for absolute beginners.

Price: Free but with limitations, or from € 3.99 per month for the premium version

• Both browser and mobile
• Easy to use
• Many models and filters

• Few professional photo retouching tools
• Some users note its slowness
• Only available online

12. Fotor – Best choice for IA art effects

Compatibility : Web browser

Global mark : 7.5/10

Layer tools: 6/10

Catalogging: 6/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Painting effects with various styles
• Many photo assembly tools by AI
• Wide range of embellishment tools

Fotor has won us over by these many artistic effects that will transform your photos into canvases worthy of the greatest painters.

The Fotor platform is very complete and its interface intelligently organized to ensure an optimal workflow. Whether you are looking for basic editing tools to crop and resize, artistic effects to change the appearance of a shot or add decorative elements to give a modern touch to your images, you will always find a tool that will correspond to your expectations.

In addition, many tutorials are also highlighted in order to allow everyone to improve photographs without any experience limit.

However, it is a shame that many effects and tools are not available in the free version. You can still make a screenshot but please note that a watermark will apply to your retouched image with the premium effects.

Price: free but with limitations, or from $ 2.66 per month for the premium version

• Tutorials to guide beginners
• Effects and tools covering all editing needs

• Filigrane on the free version
• Too many advertising posters

13. Befunky – Best choice for portrait retouching

Compatibility : Web browser

Global mark : 7.5/10

Layer tools: 7/10

Catalogging: 7/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Guided editing tools
• AI assistance
• Editing layers

This site will be very practical if you wish to retouch your portraits in just a few clicks. Befunky is the software that we consider the best for portrait improvements with no less than 18 tools dedicated to retouching the face and the silhouette. Among other things, you can Modify the color of your eyes, whiten your teeth, remove dark circles, adjust the tanning of your skin and much more.

With a dozen editing tabs, including choosing, you can quickly browse the software interface to modify the layout of the models, download images and make minimalist modifications. The free version will allow you to access only a third of the platform tools, novice users will be able to benefit from simplified features. However, publishers with more experiences will likely wish more options – and much fewer advertisements.

Price: Free but with limitations, or from € 4.99 per month for the premium version

• Effective interface
• Easy to handle

• Majority of tools available in the paid version

14. Darktable – Best choice for RAW file processing

Compatibility : Windows, MacOS

Global mark : 7/10

Layer tools: 6/10

Catalogging: 7/10

Adapted to beginners: 7/10

Best features

• Color correction tools
• RAW file processing
• Addition of metadata

Darktable is an excellent photo editing software that will be particularly interesting if you want to do the RAW file retouching.

With this program, you can access excellent cataloging tools to organize, sort, tag your images and also add metadata. Darktable is divided into 2 tabs “Lightable” and “Darktable”. The first will mainly be used to use the different cataloging tools in order to organize all your photos. While the second will allow you to use the many editing tools To touch up your images as well as RAW files compatible with more than 400 cameras of cameras.

The software is regularly updated and offers a large number of learning tools such as forums, video tutorials as well as publications dedicated to learning certain features. Among the retouching features available, we particularly appreciated color correction tools as well as fusion masks.

On the other hand, this software still has its share of defects. It will not be as fast as other solutions present in this list and certain advanced editing tools such as the replacement of the sky or the automatic cutting of an image by artificial intelligence will not be available.

Price: Free and open-source

• Exceptional RAW files
• Constantly updated

• Lack a lot of powerful photo features

15. Ipiccy – Best choice to give a paper effect

Compatibility : Web browser

Global mark : 6.5/10

Layer tools: 7/10

Catalogging: 1/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Texture effects
• Blurring tools

IPICCY is an en-line photo mounting site that will simply correct several aspects of your shots without the need to download software.

This solution offers a very large number of photo editing tools which will be separated under 5 tabs (Basic Editor, Photo Effects, Retouch, Designer and textures) . Each of these tabs will meet different needs. For example if you want to correct imperfections of your skin then you will have to go under the “Retouch” tab, while if you want to add a filter to change the coloring you will have to click on the “Photo Effects” tab.

Among the very large number of tools provided by Ipiccy software, we really liked The texture effects that will apply an aesthetic layer to give it a very elegant 3D appearance.

Admittedly, the editing options offered will not be as numerous as a real photo retouching software but for a simple photo montage without the need for professional tools, this program will be satisfactory.

Price: Free, obligation to create an account to take advantage of all content

• Simple to use
• Pleasant interface that will suit beginners

• Not many powerful tools assisted by AI

16. Photo POS Pro – Best choice for photo retouching neophytes

Compatibility : Windows

Global mark : 7/10

Layer tools: 6/10

Catalogging: 5/10

Adapted to beginners: 9/10

Best features

• Color correction
• Crop an image

To conclude our selection, we invite you to try the POS Pro photo software, perfectly suited to neophyte users thanks to a customizable and intuitive interface.

For simple adjustments such as reframing an image, the application of filters or the addition of a movement effect, few solutions will be as intuitive as POS PO.

In addition, a help page dedicated to software learning will be available on the site. Through this page, you can learn to use all the photo features that may be useful to you. Unfortunately the tutorials will only be in English.

Price: Free with limitations, or from € 40.99 for the PREPEUTUAL PREMIUM version

• Lots of tutorials available on the site (in English)
• Simplified use perfect for novices

• Slowdowns on complex manipulations

You are looking for a mobile application?

Take a photo, edit it to share it online directly with a mobile photo retouching application.

There are very powerful solutions for smartphones and tablets, discover our selection of

How to touch up a photo for free?

Now that you have a precise idea of ​​the best photo editing software available, let us show you several ways to retouch your photos in order to embellish all your media. We will use the Photodirector edition software available below for free download.