GIMP

GIMP (the GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free photo-editor that’s powerful enough to rival paid-for software like Photoshop, and it’s surprisingly straightforward to use.

Its array of picture-perfecting tools make it easy to boost colors, correct tones, erase unwanted objects, apply artistic effects and even animate your pictures.

Why you need it

Editing photos with GIMP can be as simple or involved as you like. Its convenient automatic picture-enhancing tools include automatic white balance adjustment to correct color casts caused by lighting conditions, saturation enhancement, sharpening, red-eye correction and noise removal.

There are also fun Instagram-style filters, including settings for ageing your pictures, applying filmstrip effects, replicating the effect of an old photocopier and even adding coffee stains. There are also automatic ‘beautify’ filters to perfect your portraits.

More advanced options include a clone stamp for removing flaws and unwanted objects from pictures, manual adjustment of color curves, and support for layers.

If all that isn’t enough, GIMP can be expanded further still using downloadable plug-ins. If you’re looking for a great photo editor without the expense of Photoshop, GIMP is the best around.

Download here: GIMP