What are the best software programs to use to create the disigns here?

[DLBDS]

I know Photoshop is considered to be the ultimate mack daddy but what others are there that can do almost as well but for considerably less money? The only other one I've seen mentioned is PhotoImpact. Thinking of trying the free trial version of this. I have absolutely NO experience in any of this. I'm not crafty but would like to personalize my own templates that I find on the DISigns forum. Advice? TIA!

DARA

 

[MomETC]

I use and prefer Paint Shop Pro. I guess I'm so used to using it that I have a hard time with PS. I think it over complicates things. lol I have both PS and PSP...I always go back to PSP. I would get the different free trials and try them to see what fits best for you. Good luck! I

 

[RustManFan]

I use Adobe Photo Elements. Just upgraded to version 7 and love it!