Omnivorous Surfer

I'm always on the lookout for FREE alternatives to expensive software. While Photoshop is probalby the best-known photo editing software package, with incredible features and results, its pricetag is a little high--well, extremely high--for the average user. I do appreciate the features in Irfanview, which I have used for years, but sometimes I need--well, want--more advanced options. I have found GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) to be a viable alternative for those times when a little more power is needed.

GIMP is not for the faint-hearted. Any software which can accomplish a wide variety of more complicated operations such as this will not be as easy to learn as simple word processing software. It does have built-in help, and a user manual is available for downloading. The GIMP website offers tutorials for various levels of expertise, and a Google search for "GIMP tutorials" yields even more. Perusing a few of those will give some idea of the amazing finished products which can be produced.

Oh, and for those of you who use portable apps, try GIMP Portable for your on-the-go photo editing.

GIMP is freeware, but of course you are encouraged to make a donation if you like the software.