Photo editing software

[JKMJ441724]

I am new to photo editing but very eager to really get started. I'm looking for software that let's me brighten photos which are too dark, basic cosmetic issues (hide blemishes, whiten teeth, spray tan). I would like to be able to edit out random items from my photos. I need something that's pretty easy to learn and navigate. I also want to stay below $100.

What software do you use? What do you like? What do you dislike? And what does it cost?

Thanks friends!
Kim

 

[DoDaLeCa]

At that pricepoint I like Photoshop Elements which can be found on sale for around $80 quite regularly.

There are some web add-ons that allow more functionality (like layers on older versions, etc.) which brings it closer to the more powerful Photoshop. Even without them Ps Elements is a great program.

There are also some freebies like Irfanview that can do some but not all of the things on your wish list.

 

[photo_chick]

Download the 30 day trial for Photoshop Elements from Adobe.com and see if it works for you.

 

[jcb]

I cannot disagree with photoshop elements as introductory photo editing software. It has been years since I used it but it should provide you with a good simple means of editing photos.

Your other option at present is to get full photoshop and lightroom for $10 a month at https://creative.adobe.com/plans/offer/photoshop+lightroom?mboxsession=1389545087957-619227

To be honest, there are aspects of photoshop that still intimidate me even after using it for the last 5 years or so but then most folks use only about 20 percent of any software.

 

[havoc315]

You can't really go wrong with Photoshop Elements, it is the standby.

But if you want to consider an alternative, look at Perfect Photo Suite 8... it is more task-specific. Arguably, it can be a bit simpler to accomplish some of the core things you would do with Elements, and even has a few features that aren't in basic Elements. For example, it includes Perfect Portrait, specifically designed for smoothing skin, fixing blemishes, etc. Can totally do the same stuff with Elements, but it is boiled down simply. Same with using layers, changing backgrounds, etc.

Not saying it's better than Elements, just different and could be worth a look for some people.

 

[JKMJ441724]

Photoshop Elements seems to be the consensus so I downloaded the free trial. I'm trying to work my way through it.

Does anyone have (and is it ok to post) links to some tutorials to help me learn my way around faster than just stumbling through it?

Again, thanks.
Kim

 

[DoDaLeCa]

Watch Adobe TV lessons

http://tv.adobe.com/product/photoshop-elements/episode/most-viewed/playlist/

You can also download the help and tutorial file.

http://helpx.adobe.com/pdf/photoshop-elements_reference.pdf