What Affordable Image Editing Software for Retouching?

[randy9378]

I am trying to learn how to edit and retouch photos. I am finding it a very tough thing to do. I used to paint and draw and even published in newspapers and magazine, so I was quite confident of my abilities to make the computer do what I want. I am not able to do much. I am not sure how to crop photos. I cannot seem to correct colors and especially skin tones. I can see something is not right, but I cannot make correctit. Usually, I am just undoing the numerous changes that I make. I am wondering if it is not me but the software I am using. What should I do? Should I just worth through the softwares I have right now? Is Adob'es PS indispensible? I would rather not dispense with the high cost of it. Which of the softwares I have is something I should plough on?
Thanks for your suggestions and time

[1840dsgn]

Give GIMP a try...

[Lchad]

Here's a software that I love. http://www.xara.com/products/xtreme/
It's a vector program with sophisticated photo touch up, etc. There is a learning curve to id, but there is a forum that you can join and they have many many tutorials to get you started. A very friendly group that will help you achieve what you want. $79 US

Another one of my favorites is Ulead Photo Impact. This is great for web graphics, photo touch ups with an express fix. You can alter colors, beautify skin. Again a great forum for help and assistance. People will even write you up a tutorial if you are really stuck. Go online and search Ulead PhotoImpact tutorials and you can be busy for weeks. $89 US

With both of those programs there isn't much you can't do. But again, you'll need time to learn them. But once you do, wow.. what fun.

[haden24jj]

I also started editing photos a few months ago. There are several good photo editing programs but I use Image Photo. I find it very useful and well explained. You can download easily from You should download and read their tutorials. This should get you on the right path.
Good luck!

[pa007]

Photoshop Elements is well priced considering the features. I use it often despite having PS CS3 Extended. For simple jobs and basic retouching Elements is brilliant.

Pete.

[sannbe]

There is always open source and freeware....neither cost a cent and fequently work as well as or better than the costs money stuff. Gimp, mentioned above is one of many.

[pa007]

That's very true. I guess, despite my spiritual leanings, I'm just capitalist scum at heart.

Oh well.

Pete.

[sannbe]

You're forgiven, Pete. I am feeling generous today. lol Besides, I think Jacob wants to be by himself in the closet today.

[Paramiliar]

Originally Posted by randy9378

I am trying to learn how to edit and retouch photos. I am finding it a very tough thing to do. I used to paint and draw and even published in newspapers and magazine, so I was quite confident of my abilities to make the computer do what I want. I am not able to do much. I am not sure how to crop photos. I cannot seem to correct colors and especially skin tones. I can see something is not right, but I cannot make correctit. Usually, I am just undoing the numerous changes that I make. I am wondering if it is not me but the software I am using. What should I do? Should I just worth through the softwares I have right now? Is Adob'es PS indispensible? I would rather not dispense with the high cost of it. Which of the softwares I have is something I should plough on?
Thanks for your suggestions and time

Well the best one on a budget is GIMP, the reason? well simple it is free!