If you want to preserve a memory forever, take a photograph. In some cases however, the shots you take might not be what you hoped for or expect. Post photo processing is slowly becoming an important process even for people participating in free photo contests. If you want to adjust the color, improve saturation or add filters, you need to have a photo editing software to help you do just that.
There are many options and thus it can be difficult to find editing software that works perfectly to cater for your needs. This article looks into some editing software that can help you perfect the pictures you take for different photo competitions.
What should you look for in editing software?
Choosing photo editing software is largely dependent on a few factors. If you are looking for free editing software there is a wide range of options you should consider like Gimp or Darktable. Photo editing can be a daunting task that can take a lot of time. Processing photos automatically is not a good choice especially if you want control over features like Exposure or Contrast. Photo applications like Apple Photos are some of the best ways to organize and categorize different pictures.
GIMP
GIMP is a short form for GNU Image Manipulation Program. This program is highly technical Photoshop alternative and offers more power and features more long term development compared to other free applications. It can be used on Mac, Windows and Linux and is an open source program meaning it has been developed over a long period of time by a lot of programmers. It requires a lot of practice before you learn how to use GIMP and you need to be patient in order to master it and use it for your photo contests entries.
Darktable
Darktable is like using free Lightroom; it replicates its functions and layout. Using Darktable you can import images into a database. The program also offers nondestructive editing tools such as perspective corrections and lenses. Though it is not as powerful or slick like Lightroom it is absolutely free and you do not have to worry about any nagging regarding upgrades or locked “premium” features.
Apple Photos
Apple Photos might be limited in some aspects but it provides a small range of filters and does not need any local adjustments. Its regular adjustment tools for cropping, color, retouching and exposure are as effective as other free apps. Apple Photos provides nice cataloguing and searching tools which you can use to categorize different photos for different free photo contests.
