I'm one of those people who can't resist tweaking photos until they look just right. You know, the kind of vibrant, scroll-stopping images that make you do a double take (and hopefully a double tap).
Photo editing software has been my secret weapon, whether fixing a slightly dull sunset, popping the colors of a flower, or turning a simple portrait into Picasso's work.
But I know (believe me!) how frustrating it can get to spend hours fiddling with settings and filters only to end up with a photo that still doesn't feel right. That's why I set out to find the best photo editing software that struck the perfect chord between powerful features, ease of use, and creative freedom. After testing 25 options, I discovered 8 photo editing apps that truly stood out, turning my photos into stunning artworks– all without the editing process, making me want to chuck my device at the wall.
So, whether you're a pro photographer, an Instagram enthusiast, or someone who wants their photos to look amazing, this list has something for everyone. Let's make those pictures (picture) perfect.
* These photo editing tools are top-rated in their category, according to G2 Grid Reports. I’ve also added their monthly pricing to make comparisons easier for you.
Photography is one of those skills that always warrants improvement. But when it comes to editing and sharing my pictures, I want my tools to help me perfect those shots.
Today's photo editing tools go far beyond basic filters. They have the power and "intelligence" to revamp pictures, whether taken on a smartphone or a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. The tools I rely on for editing help me reshape images, enrich details, adjust hues, add special effects, and easily remove unwanted elements.
That said, choosing the right editing tool isn't always straightforward. What am I looking to enhance? Where do I plan to share these images? And how much does image quality matter to me? Answering these questions helped me find tools that fit my style.
My goal was simple: to find photo editing software that offers creative freedom, is beginner-friendly yet powerful enough for professionals, and easily handles varying file sizes and complex edits. Over several weeks, I tested each tool, used artificial intelligence to analyze hundreds of product reviews on G2, and checked the G2 grid report to see how these tools performed for me and other users so you can decide if they’re a good fit for you.
Photo editing apps are everywhere—free ones, expensive ones, basic tools, and advanced programs. Some focus on overall improvements, while others excel at detailed, pinpoint editing. So, how do you find the best fit? Here are the six things I look for in photo retouching software.
Considering all of this, I tested over 25 applications in the past few weeks, and the eight best photo editing software listed here are the ones that I liked best. I was impressed by their extensive photo enhancement features, intuitive design, AI automation, and creative possibilities.
To be included in the photo editing application category, a solution must:
*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.
Adobe Photoshop is widely popular—and for good reason. Whether I'm retouching portraits, adjusting colors, or completely transforming images, the tools at my disposal blow my mind. My favorite feature is the layering system, which lets me stack edits, play with transparency, and blend everything perfectly. Layer access makes it easy to separate different parts of an image, apply adjustments independently, and merge elements without altering the original file.
Masks are another of my favorites. I can selectively apply changes to specific areas without affecting the entire image. It’s no wonder professionals across creative industries rely on it. Even for tasks that seem simple, Photoshop offers a dozen different approaches, letting me choose the one that fits best. The flexibility is truly unmatched.
Plus, I rarely need other programs since Photoshop bundles everything into one platform—graphic design, photo editing, and even 3D rendering are all covered.
However, as with all good things, Photoshop has some challenges. The biggest is that it gets intimidating at first. There are countless tools, menus, and submenus that can overwhelm a beginner (I’ve taken my sweet time understanding the software). The learning curve is steep, and while there are tons of tutorials online, you must be ready to invest some time in getting things right.
Photoshop also demands a powerful system to run smoothly. I recommend using it on newer-generation PCs to enjoy its full potential. And yes, the cost. Photoshop isn't cheap. For frequent users, you're definitely getting a bang for your buck, but if you only need it occasionally, I'd give it a second thought.
That said, the 7-day free trial is a great way to dip your toes in and see if Adobe Photoshop fits your workflow.
“I always tweak my photos in Photoshop before uploading them to any social media platform. It's a great tool for photo enhancement. You can do various things, such as color correction, image manipulation, and optimizing for social media resolution, all while maintaining the highest quality. I frequently use the incredible Generative Fill tool, which makes the process very easy. Photoshop integrates seamlessly with After Effects, which is a great feature.”
- Adobe Photoshop Review, Sonu Kumar J.
“Due to its extensive features and tools, Adobe Photoshop can be quite complex and overwhelming for beginners. It’s also resource-intensive, making it run slowly on older computers, and the frequent updates may disrupt familiar workflows. Additionally, the subscription may be expensive for some users.”
- Adobe Photoshop Review, Sanampreet K.
If you’re a beginner and just looking for some basic photo editing, Photoshop Elements may be worth a look. Or, if you want to make on-the-go changes to your creative pixel creations, try Adobe Photoshop Express.
Here’s a detailed comparison between Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Photoshop Express, and Photoshop Elements to give you a clearer idea.
While Canva is best known for its design templates, I’ve found its photo editing tools surprisingly handy. The intuitive interface and drag-and-drop functionality make editing effortless without dealing with the complexities of professional software.
I can fine-tune colors, add text or image overlays, and use simple retouching tools to polish images without spending hours editing. Cropping, rotating, and resizing is as easy as it gets, and with just a click, I can apply filters to change the vibe of a photo completely. When I need more precision, brightness, contrast, and saturation adjustments, help me get the look I want.
The background remover (which I unlocked with Pro) is unlike any other. With just a few taps, it completely changes or erases the background of a photo, saving me a lot of time when I want to isolate a subject or create a collage. Magic Switch tool is another gem—I can edit a photo once and resize it instantly for different platforms, which saves so much time when creating social media content.
However, there are areas where this online photo editing software falls short. I’ve noticed that Canva can't compete with tools like Photoshop for more detailed photo retouching, like clone stamping or blemish removal. It’s also frustrating that finer controls for shadows, highlights, and gradients are limited.
The tool also lacks advanced brush tools for precision work, which makes it challenging to fix minor imperfections in photos. Lastly, the file organization system could be improved. As I create more projects, finding specific designs becomes chaotic without a robust folder structure.
Try out the free plan first, and if you need more, consider Pro or team-oriented plans like Team or Enterprise.
“What I like most about Canva is how easy it is to create posts and the high-quality ideas that are offered for free to new users. For me, Canva is the best image editor because it’s lightweight, allows me to edit from anywhere, and provides many features at no cost. In addition to photo and post-editing, I also edit videos thanks to the updates made in 2022.”
- Canva Review, João Paulo C.
“Canva is primarily cloud-based, meaning it requires an internet connection to use, making it inconvenient in situations where connectivity is limited or unavailable.”
- Canva Review, Peter M.
If you’re already familiar with Canva and have wondered is Canva Pro is worth it, find out here.
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom is one of those tools that makes life easier if you're dealing with a ton of photos. The batch editing feature allows me to throw on a preset and apply it across the board—done in minutes. This massive time-saver eliminates the need to manually edit each image while maintaining consistency and reducing errors.
It's also easy (after you've gotten used to the tool) to adjust shadows, tweak colors, fine-tune details, add effects, and give your photos that professional pop. The sliders and controls make precision editing accessible even to those without advanced editing skills.
Additionally, the organizational capability is a major pro because I can pick up where I left off and, with a few clicks, rate, label, and categorize multiple shots.
However, you should know that Lightroom is another software you need to be patient with. While Adobe provides tutorials, I took a few weeks of regular use to feel completely comfortable navigating the platform.
You also won't get heavy-duty manipulations like in Photoshop. If you need to do complex composites or layer-heavy designs, you'll need to switch between the two programs. I also wish there was another way to access Lightroom besides the subscription model.
If you're considering Lightroom, I suggest utilizing the 7-day free trial to see if it meets your needs.
“It has a user-friendly interface and offers almost all the required features, such as color grading, exposure, lens correction, RAW image support, etc. Cloud sync is another great feature for users with multiple devices for editing photos and videos.”
- Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Review, Aniket V.
“While Lightroom offers a comprehensive desktop experience, its mobile version falls short of expectations, lacking some of the advanced features and capabilities of its desktop counterpart. Additionally, when working with high-resolution files, the software tends to strain in performance, which slows down the editing process and affects overall user experience.”
- Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Review, Baris E.
If you prefer storing your projects locally on a PC and want to avoid cloud storage costs, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic is worth considering.
Here’s a detailed comparison between Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic.
If you’re like me and love snapping tons of photos, Apple Photos is a fantastic tool for managing and editing your growing library. It’s more than just a photo viewer – you'll get everything from light adjustments to cropping, filters, and even noise reduction.
One feature I frequently use is the auto-suggested adjustments. With just one tap, the app intelligently tweaks brightness, contrast, and color balance to improve the overall appearance of the photo. While the results aren’t always perfect, they often provide an excellent starting point.
Organization is another area where Apple Photos shines. Location-based sorting and smart tagging make it easier to keep track of your memories without manually creating albums. For someone like me who takes hundreds of photos on trips, having the ability to search by a specific location is incredibly convenient.
Despite its strengths, Apple Photos isn’t without its drawbacks. While sufficient for light adjustments, the editing tools feel limiting if you're used to dedicated professional software. I occasionally find myself exporting photos to another app when I need more granular control over the picture elements. Indeed, it isn't designed to replace full-fledged photo editing suites.
The limited cross-platform compatibility between Apple and non-Apple devices is also a huge issue. It makes it challenging for me to maintain a cohesive photo management system across all my devices. Moving things from one device to another is just too tricky.
Lastly, while iCloud integration is a huge plus, the limited free storage fills up quickly. If you have an extensive library or frequently shoot high-resolution photos and videos, you'll likely need to pay for additional iCloud storage. This isn't a deal-breaker for me, but it's something to keep in mind if you're trying to manage costs.
You’ll find Photos pre-installed on all your devices if you’re an Apple user.
“The filters are very similar to what you would find in a professional photo editor like LightRoom. Their auto tool is also very user-friendly.”
- Photos Review, Alicia C.
“Some of the more advanced features of the Photos app, such as portrait mode editing and AR effects, are only available on the latest iPhones.”
- Photos Review, Shyam P.
Apple Photos does a great job organizing your photos, but if you want to take the matter into your own hands, read this article on photo management.
I’ve been using Picsart for quite a while now, and it was the first photo-retouching software I downloaded on my phone. The range of features is impressive—filters, effects, background changer and remover tools, animation options, and design elements. It's perfect for turning any basic image into an Instagram-worthy post.
I especially love the selection of filters: everything from turning your photo into art to turning it into a cartoon or making it HDR. The filters are truly unique. Whether I want a bold, vibrant look or a soft, subtle edit, there's always a filter that fits the mood I'm going for.
Picsart also regularly introduces new tools, filters, and templates so I can keep my designs fresh, stay current with visual trends, and add new effects to my projects without needing extra software. It’s great knowing the platform evolves with creative needs.
And for the best part, the application works powerfully on mobile. I can make high-quality edits directly from my phone, whether I’m traveling, at an event, or just relaxing at home—no laptop needed.
However, the free plan has limits, with many features behind a paywall. After a while, I found that some of the best filters, effects, and tools are restricted to the Pro version. The free version may suffice for casual users, but the Plus or Pro plan is worth considering if you're serious about editing.
Another thing I've noticed is that Picsart occasionally lags or glitches, particularly when applying multiple effects or working with large files. While this doesn't always happen, it’s frustrating if you're trying to complete a quick edit.
I also wish I had more control over export settings in Picsart. The app works fine with standard formats like JPEG and PNG but doesn't offer high-resolution exports or support for professional formats like PSD or TIFF.
“It includes the most common editing tools such as filters, drawing options, effects, stickers, and text addition. However, the standout feature is layering, which allows for numerous creative possibilities when working on image projects.”
- Picsart Review, Pratush R.
“The app's filter and effects sometimes lead to over-embellished photos. The text editing feature may feel awkward with few font choices and limited options.”
- Picsart Review, Puja M.
If you're looking for a beginner-friendly masterclass on photo editing and want to understand the essential elements, check out this article on how to edit photos and get editing ideas.
Need to fill in parts of an image or generate new elements from scratch? Run to Adobe Firefly.
Firefly isn't your typical photo editing tool, but it’s more of a creative sidekick. With Firefly, you can remove objects from images, add new elements, or swap out backgrounds—all powered by AI.
The generative fill option works well when I want to fill in an empty space or remove an object to even out the background. You simply highlight the area you want to make changes to and write your prompt. Then, Firefly will offer multiple generative options for each prompt. The ability to choose from several variations not only saves time but sparks creativity by presenting ideas I may not have considered.
Another highlight is the integration with Adobe's ecosystem. Since I already use Photoshop and Lightroom, Firefly naturally fits into my workflow. I can start a project in Photoshop, tap into Firefly for AI-powered enhancements, and bring everything together without ever leaving the Adobe suite.
At its core, Firefly taps into Adobe Sensei (Adobe’s AI engine), using deep learning to make edits based on your prompts.
While it’s pretty polished for abstract and artistic designs, Adobe still has some work to do for hyper-realistic projects. When generating photorealistic faces or hands, the results look a bit off. Currently, I use it more for stylized or illustrative edits rather than lifelike imagery.
Also, if you use Firefly in the browser with the free plan, you only get 25 monthly credits. Each prompt consumes credits, and it gets frustrating when unsatisfactory outputs eat into that limited pool. I wish there were ways to refine prompts without losing credits.
“Adobe is marketing it as: Dream it- type it - see it. And it’s exactly that. You can type anything in text format, and Firefly will generate that effect in a matter of 2-3 seconds. You don't even need to purchase an Adobe Photoshop subscription to experience this breakthrough feature; you can just launch the free web-based service provided by Adobe (firefly.adobe.com). Unlike other AI-based generators, it will accept most of your requests to generate a near match of your particular requirement. Adding, extending, and removing objects from images has become extremely simple and a matter of typing few words.”
- Adobe Firefly Review, Verma S.
“The generative effects in some photos feel artificial, and since the product is still in Beta, errors are to be expected. You can provide feedback using the beaker icon in Photoshop. Currently, Firefly's generative fill is available only in Photoshop, though it’s much needed in Illustrator as well. Additionally, the technology requires constant internet connectivity for cloud processing.”
- Adobe Firefly Review, Shiwam S.
Image generators are trending for all kinds of reasons, from creativity to controversy. Discover what they can do and explore our top 10 free AI image generators list.
I stumbled upon Spyne while searching for an AI-powered photo editing app. The interface is refreshingly simple, with its one-click editing process— a big plus when you need to edit in bulk.
Spyne is created to make life easier for dealerships, e-commerce brands, and anyone who relies heavily on crisp, marketplace-ready images. I noticed that the AI does a lot of the heavy lifting, from background removal to enhancing product details; it churns out professional photos without needing a photographer on speed dial.
One feature that stood out to me was the 360° vehicle spins. This feature allows potential buyers to virtually "walk around" a vehicle, viewing it from every angle. It's an immersive experience that enhances customer engagement and gives buyers the confidence to make informed decisions. One look and I knew this feature could significantly improve how dealers present their inventory online.
Spyne’s biggest strength also lies in the quality of its output. The AI doesn’t just slap a white background on your image—it actually fine-tunes lighting, shadows, and even reflections to make products pop.
Spyne isn’t without its quirks, though. Uploading photos can be a bit slow, especially if you’re working with high-resolution files. It also doesn’t cater to those who enjoy fine-tuning every little detail. Spyne’s approach might feel a little restrictive if you thrive on pixel-level perfection.
Although Spyne has expanded into sectors like food, e-commerce, and fashion, its main focus continues to be the automotive industry. I've observed that the platform's tools and features are best suited for car dealerships, which may limit its effectiveness in other industries. This makes it less versatile compared to some general-purpose editing tools. However, for professionals in the automotive sector, this specialization is undoubtedly a benefit.
While Spyne might not be my go-to, it could be yours if you want to elevate your product images or create a marketplace with consistent, pro-level visuals. It’s easy to use, smart in all the right ways, and supported by a responsive team—something many G2 users have praised.
“Spyne is a great tool for dealers in a seasonal climate, like my dealership in New York. The seasons change faster than the inventory at the shop, and processing our vehicles with Spyne saves us time taking new pictures! It looks very professional and has already increased our online lead counts. The representative who helped us sign up thoroughly explained how it works, and for someone good with computers, it’s easy to use their software. They even allow you to flag certain photos that the AI did a less than perfect job, and their team will correct them for you.”
- Spyne Review, Beverly C.
“The processing time with the QC should be shorter.”
- Spyne Review, Usman G.
Spyne also offers dedicated applications for editing fashion, food, footwear, and e-commerce products. Explore their "Spyne Food" or "Spyne Fashion" landing pages for more details.
If I have to summarize my experience with Luminar Neo– it lets me make dramatic edits in the best way. The photo enhancement tools make my shots look sharper and more vibrant without feeling overprocessed. It makes complex tasks, like masking skies or enhancing details, almost effortless. Magic? Close enough! From simple touch-ups to complex color grading, there’s a lot packed into this software, and it’s definitely worth checking out.
One of Luminar Neo’s biggest selling points is its AI-powered tools. Features like Sky AI (sky replacement) and Structure AI (structure enhancement) feel intuitive and make a noticeable difference in just a few clicks. I’ve always found sky masking tricky in other software, but with Luminar Neo, it feels almost too easy. It’s the kind of app that makes you feel like a pro, even if you’re just starting out.
Another reason I stick with it is that it can be used as standalone software or as a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, and Apple Photos. It blends magically into my existing workflow, so I can jump between apps without losing momentum.
But again, Luminar Neo isn’t flawless. One of the most noticeable issues is the lag during intensive tasks. The software slows significantly when working with RAW files or applying heavy AI edits. The slowdown is really evident when processing large batches of photos.
I’ve also occasionally encountered glitches, like the app freezing unexpectedly or AI features not working as they should, making me start over. These problems aren’t frequent, but they’re disruptive enough to throw me off my creative flow when they happen.
Additionally, the pricing model feels a little convoluted. There are different add-ons and features you can purchase separately, and it gets confusing (and pricey) if you want the full experience.
“The AI capabilities, such as noise reduction, upscaling, and background removal, are impressive and incredibly time-saving. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible for beginners and professionals, bridging the gap between mobile and desktop photo editing. Additionally, the ability to make changes without altering the original image is crucial for my work, and Luminar Neo handles this beautifully.”
- Luminar Neo Review, Mahmoud G.
“Luminar Neo can be demanding on system resources, potentially leading to slower performance on less powerful computers, hindering the efficiency of the editing process. The app had occasional crashes and instability, affecting the overall editing experience and causing frustration.”
- Luminar Neo Review, Pranshu M.
Before I wrap up, let me answer some common questions about photo editing software.
The best software for photo editing depends on your needs. Adobe Photoshop is a top choice for professionals due to its advanced features. Adobe Lightroom is a good option for professionals and beginners, offering decent features and ease of use. For casual users, apps like Picsart provide a variety of simple and straightforward editing tools.
Yes, free photo editing tools such as Pixlr and Canva are available. Although these may have limitations, such as watermarks or fewer advanced features, they provide basic editing features like cropping, resizing, and applying filters. Check out the 16 best free photo editing software.
Consider your goals and requirements when looking for photo editing software for Mac. Popular options include Adobe Photoshop for advanced editing, Luminar Neo for AI-powered enhancements, and Apple Photos for basic edits and organization.
Software like Lightroom, Luminar Neo, or Apple Photos are great beginner options. They offer user-friendly interfaces with powerful tools to enrich photos without being overwhelming. Lightroom, in particular, is a great entry point for those new to photo editing but also has plenty of advanced features for when you're ready to grow your skills.
Professionals mostly rely on Adobe Photoshop for its wide array of editing tools, versatility, and industry standards. Lightroom is also highly recommended for photographers.
The choice is yours to make. Lightroom is better for photographers who need to quickly organize and edit large batches of photos, focusing on exposure, color, and basic retouching. Photoshop, on the other hand, is more versatile. It offers advanced tools for detailed editing and compositing. Lightroom would be the way to go if you're focused on photography, while Photoshop is ideal for more complex editing tasks.
Ready to make those photos pop? These eight best photo editing software tools cover everything from basic touch-ups to detailed edits, giving you the freedom to create exactly how you want. Each tool offers something unique and is powerful enough to handle essential tasks like resizing, color correction, brightness, contrast, shadow adjustment, and fine-tuning details.
Whether you’re just starting out, aiming to level up your skills, or adding another tool to your creative stack, these options have got you covered.
For me, the key was finding the right combination of tools that matched my style and workflow. I experimented, explored their features, and discovered how to mix and match—or switch between them—depending on the photo I was editing.
Your needs and creative flow are uniquely yours—so now it’s your turn. Dive in, try them out, and find the tool (or tools) that feel like a natural extension of your creative process. The perfect edit is just a click away!
Are you looking to turn your photos into stunning designs or marketing material? Explore the best free graphic design tools for 2025.
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