Photo editing software suggestions

[Scottl]

Not a product announcement per se, but I am interested in getting a photo editing package for retouching skies and similar tasks.  I have used graphics packages extensively, including Corel products, but I was hoping to find a good open source package to use that is ideally low or no cost.  I have found Inkscape (https://inkscape.org/en/) serves this role with vector and general graphics work very well.

Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

[jmlaboda]

Since upgrading to Vista ruined my ability to use Microsoft Picture it! I have been using Photoscape.  While it took a little time and practice to learn the various features I have found it to be a great program.  It is free to use...

http://www.photoscape.org/

[Scottl]

Thanks, it looks like just the thing I was looking for.

[sirenwerks]

GIMP is another option - http://www.gimp.org/

[robert3985]

I'm a dyed-in-the-wool Photoshop and Corel (Painter & Draw Graphic Suite)...but these are part of my illustration and photo business, so I can justify their high cost.

Adobe Photoshop Elements is a bargain, and is only slightly less powerful than full-bore versions (frankly, I am very happy with my CS4 version of Photoshop and I doubt I'll ever upgrade).

If you want "free"...as has been suggested, I recommend GIMP, which is a very powerful and well-supported photo editing solution.

Just remember, if you want features and powerful capabilities, whatever program you decide on is going to require a steep learning curve.  Luckily, the popular ones always have tutorials available, which makes things a lot easier.

[Palouse51]

Another vote for GIMP here.

It's cross platform and runs on Linux, Mac and Windows. Although it is very full featured it also has some extra plug ins available to extend it's capabilities ever further. As Bob mentioned there is a learning curve for any of these programs but there are tutorials available.

[Scottl]

I tried GIMP and found it more to my liking.  Both packages have a lot to offer.  Thanks for the suggestions.