Introduction

This article will explain the basics of different types of image editing programs out there, a sample of what they offer and what you can do with them in terms of digital enhancing and manipulation.

Ranging from the very advanced to the utterly simple, image editing software allows you greater freedom in tweaking your images to get your desired look. Most cameras include a “basic” software as part of your camera package, giving amateur users the chance to adjust brightness, remove red eye, improve saturation, crop and other limited features. Examples of these are Photoshop Elements for both platforms, iPhoto for mac, and Picasa for windows.

More advanced programs such as the the GIMP and Photoshop, give users almost limitless control of the way their photos look via layers and masks. Techniques such as sharpening, curves and levels adjustments, sharpening, channel mixing and many others are easily available each with many options for the desired look. These features are not limited to the ones specified, as most of these programs allow for plugins that can be added to extend their features. One of the main advantages to these programs is the inclusion of RAW conversion software in some programs such as Photoshop, making exporting to 16bit tiff while upsizing and controlling white balance much easier. Those who print their photos for work or at home will appreciate color management found in most advanced programs, delivering true to life colors via color profiles.

Specialty image editing programs also round out the list, programs such as Noise Ninja et al. which give users specific options over certain aspects of the image (in this case over noise). While some of this can be done in the advanced editing programs, stand alone specific software can sometimes do the job better with more options to control what you are doing. Certain programs allow you to stitch together panoramas or enhance RAW workflow. An endless variety of these programs exist, and a simple Google search will turn up hundreds each tailored to fit your need.

— Mauricio Ubach 2005/10/26 21:45