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The best image editing programs for beginners

Joachim Rodriguez y Romero
Joachim Rodriguez y Romero

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The best image editing programs for beginners

Imagine you've taken a great photo, but it needs a few tweaks to look its best. You want to learn more about photo editing, but terms like "curves," "exposure," or "layers" can quickly seem overwhelming. Once you open a program like Photoshop, it can seem almost unusable without a tutorial. Does this mean photo editing is only for professionals? Of course not.

A good image editing program for beginners can significantly improve even novices' photos. In this article, we'll show you various tools with clear functions, helpful presets, and just the right amount of support to help you become more confident in using image editing software.

Briefly presented: the best image editing programs for beginners
Briefly presented: the best image editing programs for beginners.
Photo by Getty Images @gettyimages, via Unsplash

1. Luminar Neo

This image editing program for amateur photographerscombines AI-powered enhancements with manual settings. The tools work in a supportive manner, without sacrificing the naturalness of the images, while giving you enough control to further develop your skills.

The desktop version (~$114) is available for Windows and Mac. If you want to work flexibly, you can also choose the Cross-Device (~$149) or Max (~$160) version, which additionally include mobile apps for iPhone, iPad, and Android.

Advantages

Disadvantages
AI tools deliver rapid, visible improvements without overwhelming users. The price may be off-putting for users with a limited budget.
Presets (Looks) help to better understand how colors and moods affect an image. If you're just looking for a simple image editing program for cropping and filters, Luminar might be too comprehensive.
Beginners can start with simple adjustments and later move on to layers, masks and advanced features. The program may run slower on older devices. It's worth checking the system requirements before purchasing.

2. BeFunky

Are you looking for an answer to the question "what is the best photo editing program for beginners"? If you're unfamiliar with photo editing terminology and don't know exactly what you want to change, but want to quickly improve your photo, BeFunky might be a good choice.

The platform relies on a browser-based design, a simple, template-based workflow, and AI-powered tools for rapid improvements, retouching, and image cleanup.

BeFunky is a web-based tool with mobile access, so you can work from anywhere. The basic version is free, and there's also a Plus version with extended features (approximately $14.99/month or $83.89/year).

Advantages

Disadvantages
Very easy to use thanks to its visual, browser-based design. RAW support and advanced color correction are limited – quickly too simple for advanced users.
Photos, collages, maps and social media graphics in one app. Many AI features are only available in the paid version.
Free entry with no financial risk. Performance depends heavily on the internet connection.

3. PicMonkey

This simple image editing program is well-suited if you want to transform your photos into practical, easily shareable content such as social media posts, cover art, or promotional graphics. It's less suitable for complex, precise image editing – but that's often not what beginners need. With PicMonkey, basic adjustments feel quick to understand and immediately applicable.

The tool is accessible via modern web browsers on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Mobile apps are also available for iOS and Android. Pricing varies depending on the features included and ranges from approximately $104 to $316 per year.

Advantages

Disadvantages
Efficient tools for texts, layouts and finished social media content. The image editing functions are limited compared to specialized programs.
Simple and clear user interface for beginners. The subscription model can be inconvenient for occasional users.
Free trial version to try before you buy. Primarily supports PNG and JPG (PDF only available in more expensive plans).

4. Ribbet

This tool enables straightforward photo editing for beginners thanks to its intuitive, user-friendly interface and quick enhancement functions. Collages and simple design extras are an added bonus for anyone who wants to visually enhance their social media content.

The program is available for Mac and Windows and is primarily aimed at beginners and hobby users. A free version is available, while the premium options (approximately $8.99/month or $76.99/year) include additional AI features and an object removal tool.

Advantages

Disadvantages
Clear and easy-to-understand layout – even for beginners without experience. Focus on beginners: Professional tools are largely absent.
Can be used as a desktop app or directly in the browser. Smaller ecosystem and less of a community compared to larger providers.
Easy file management, especially in premium versions with cloud storage. The free version is limited, and premium options are not particularly cheap.

Conclusion

Choosing the right photo editing software can help beginners improve their photos more easily and safely. Whether it's the AI-powered features of Luminar Neo, the user-friendly interface of BeFunky , or the practical tools of PicMonkey and Ribbet – there's a suitable solution for every need. The important thing is to choose a program that fits your workflow and supports your learning in the long run.

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Freelancing

Regardless of your field of activity as a web designer, graphic designer, game developer, photographer, programmer, product designer, journalist, content creator or influencer, as a self-employed person you have a wide range of tasks to manage.

From customer acquisition and successful project implementation to time management and financial administration – including the often unpopular tax matters.

Good information and the right online tools are crucial for a successful career as a freelancer or content creator.

In this section you will find helpful articles and valuable advice with tips specifically for freelancers.

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