Photo Editing Apps in 2024: Editing photos can enhance their appearance, giving them a polished and professional look. However, traditional desktop editors can be inconvenient and costly for photographers.
Thankfully, the era of smartphones and tablets has ushered in a new wave of convenience for photo editing. These tools are not only powerful but also incredibly user-friendly, and most importantly, they’re free. With these Photo editing apps, you can enhance your photos on the go, whether you’re on a bus, a plane, or simply relaxing at home. This level of convenience puts the power of professional photo editing in your hands, making you feel empowered and efficient.
We understand that the wide range of options available can be overwhelming, but that’s where our expertise comes in. Here, we present our top 15 Photo editing apps that cater to a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced. Our goal is to guide you through the process of selecting the ideal app to meet your photo-editing requirements, instilling a sense of confidence in your choice.
Are you looking for a photo editing apps that’s not only efficient but also user-friendly? Let’s get started! These apps are designed to be intuitive and easy to use, making you feel at ease and comfortable with your editing process.
Top Photo Editing Apps in 2024
Here, you’ll find a selection of Photo editing apps perfect for general adjustments. These apps offer a range of editing features, allowing you to adjust exposure, enhance colors, crop, sharpen, and more.
1. Lightroom
Almost every photographer is familiar with Adobe Lightroom, which is widely recognized as one of the most popular editing programs globally. However, Adobe also provides Lightroom Mobile, a mobile version of its robust desktop editor packed with powerful features.
The app can be downloaded for free, and the limited free version allows you to perform most basic editing tasks. There may be no need to upgrade if you’re seeking a simple editor.
For those who want to delve deeper into photo editing, consider an upgrade to a paid plan. Multiple options provide access to the Lightroom Mobile app, various Adobe desktop apps like Lightroom or Photoshop, and cloud storage for easy editing across multiple devices.
The paid plan provides a range of extra features that enhance your editing experience. These include a healing brush, selective adjustments, geometry tools, batch editing, RAW editing, and perspective corrections.
2. Snapseed
There’s a reason Snapseed is so popular among Photo editing apps. It’s incredibly user-friendly and perfect for new users. Additionally, Snapseed provides a wide range of advanced editing tools, including selective editing, curves, perspective correction, and more, catering to the needs of experienced users.
Snapseed is free to use, with no fees or in-app upgrades required. It is an excellent option if you’re looking for a photo editor that is perfect for beginners and offers many features.
3. Pixlr
Pixlr is a versatile editing app that provides all the necessary post-processing tools and a wide range of presets and features to enhance your creativity.
You don’t have to create an account to get Pixlr. It’s completely free to download. However, you may encounter in-app purchases for overlays and stickers.
Pixlr also provides two convenient free browser versions. Alternatively, you can subscribe to access browser versions and additional valuable assets.
4. Photoshop Express
Adobe Photoshop is widely recognized as the go-to software for professional photo editing. The mobile version is divided into three smaller and specialized apps, with Photoshop Express being the basic editor.
Photoshop Express provides convenient features like an auto-fix option and filters for quick and effortless editing. Additionally, you have complete control over editing and retouching as desired. It also includes a variety of enjoyable features like stickers and collages.
It’s simple to crop to various platforms’ formats and easily share directly from the app. Although an Adobe subscription is not required to use Photoshop Express, a free account is necessary.
5. Prisma Photo Editor
Prisma is perfect for those who appreciate art. Prisma goes beyond filters by using artificial intelligence to transform your photos into stunning artworks that draw inspiration from the most renowned artists in history. In addition to its daily filter updates, Prisma sets itself apart from other apps.
Editing is also available, like with most filter apps. However, I miss having the rotation tool available to correct the horizon if necessary.
6. VSCO
VSCO is a versatile photo editor that falls into the fun and filter category due to its artistic and social-media-focused features.
To use VSCO, you’ll have to set up an account, which is completely free. Once you’ve completed that step, you’ll be able to continue using VSCO at no cost. However, please note that most filters are available for purchase individually.
For just $19.99, you can get a yearly subscription with 200 filters. Plus, you’ll have a 7-day trial to test it out and see if it’s worth your while.
Your creations can be shared with the community, and there are no restrictions on likes or comments. Simply put, the VSCO community values the quality of the work above all else. Additionally, you can easily share your VSCO creations with other social networks like Instagram or Snapchat.
7. PicsArt Photo Editor
PicsArt Photo Editor is a highly versatile photo editing app with a wide range of features. Our app offers a robust in-app camera, along with an abundance of tools and presets. PicsArt allows you to explore professional applications such as time-lapse photography and enjoy fun stickers and drawings.
PicsArt Photo Editor offers social media integration and exciting thematic contests to inspire creativity.
8. A Color Story
A Color Story is an ideal app for managing your Instagram account. Editing your images and videos is a breeze with essential editing tools and a variety of filters to choose from.
We frequently update our filter collections to reflect the latest trends. However, most of these collections are available for purchase separately.
The Grid feature makes planning your Instagram feed simple. You can use this feature to preview your feed after adding pictures or link it to your Instagram account for post scheduling. That’s why A Color Story is perfect for keeping your Instagram feed consistent, whether you’re a photographer, influencer, or community manager.
9. Afterlight Photo Editor
With Afterlight, you’ll find a wide range of filters, textures, and frames to enhance your images effortlessly. These tools have both paid and free options, and you can choose from a range of high-quality effects.
Afterlight has 15 tools to handle basic editing tasks and make the necessary adjustments.
The Crop tool is versatile, offering options to straighten, flip, and crop freehand or to various standard ratios.
10. Photo Lab Picture Editor
Hoto Lab offers a wide range of filters and effects, allowing you to enjoy yourself or create professional-looking results. Transform your photos into cartoons and effortlessly create collages by swapping faces.
Photo Lab is an app that allows you to unleash your creativity. Its large and supportive community of followers keeps you motivated.
11. Foodie
Foodie is primarily designed for food photography, even though it has all the standard Photo editing apps.
With Foodie’s in-app camera, you can easily snap pictures and instantly see how they look with your chosen filter. Various food filter series, such as Fresh, BBQ, Yum, and others, are available.
After selecting a filter, you can easily compose your image with the help of the smart grid. When the camera is perfectly level, a yellow band will appear across the edges of the screen for flat lays.
Foodie needs a crucial editing feature: a crop tool. This omission is significant and impacts the app’s overall usability. Having good composition skills or access to another photo editor is essential to avoid cropping issues.
12. SKRWT
If you enjoy capturing images of buildings, properties, or cityscapes, you will appreciate SKRWT.
This app is designed to correct distortions and includes a convenient auto-cropping feature to guarantee optimal results.
It can correct lens distortion in images taken with any type of camera, including interchangeable lens cameras, GoPros, and smartphones.
13. TouchRetouch
We all encounter removing unwanted objects from our photos, regardless of our photography type.
Use the brush and lasso tools in TouchRetouch to select an object for removal. If you want to remove a line, such as telephone wires, in the background, tap on it, and it will be automatically selected and removed.
TouchRetouch offers a clone tool and a convenient Quick Fix feature for effortlessly removing blemishes. Numerous apps provide a healing brush feature, but TouchRetouch stands out as a specialized app that delivers superior results.
14. Motionleap
Have you ever encountered images where everything appears frozen in time, except for the flowing water or the rising steam from a cup of coffee? Cinemagraphs, or living photos, can be easily created using Motionleap’s intuitive interface. You can bring your images to life with just a few taps and swipes.
It can also include filters, make simple adjustments, and apply overlays. However, the free version does not allow project exports and lacks some tools. Therefore, it may be worth considering a paid subscription.
15. Canva
If you’re looking for an app perfect for marketing purposes, Canva is the one for you. It offers a wide selection of graphic design templates to suit all your needs.
Canva is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making creating eye-catching Facebook posts or designing entire menus simple.
Some templates are available for free, while others require a separate purchase. Canva also offers a browser version for convenient access to your projects on your computer.
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How to pick the perfect app for editing photos
When choosing the best Photo editing apps, it’s essential to consider whether it meets your specific requirements. Different apps offer different tools and features, so take the time to find one that suits you. When selecting an app for post-processing, it’s important to consider five key factors:
Ease of use and interface
Photography is meant to be enjoyable, and that applies to editing as well. It’s essential to select an app with a simple and intuitive interface, which is particularly crucial for beginners. Numerous apps are available, some of which are simple and enjoyable, while others can be complex and confusing.
If you have experience in photo editing, you may need more than a user-friendly interface. Instead, you can prioritize exploring the app’s advanced features. However, it’s essential to remember that each app has distinct qualities. It can be beneficial to try out various options.
Luckily, most apps on this list won’t cost you a thing. Many options, even those that require payment, are available and often provide trials or demo versions. Feel free to grab a couple. Give them a try. Take a moment to gauge their comfort level before making any commitments.
Editing features
Photo editors vary in their features, so finding one that meets your specific needs is crucial.
Do you have experience in this field, or are you just starting out? If you’re looking for an app that offers simple editing options like cropping, rotating, and adjusting brightness, contrast, and saturation, then this might be what you’re after. Filters can also add an element of enjoyment to your editing process and significantly boost your editing efficiency.
If you’re looking for a user-friendly app to enhance your workflow, consider an editing app incorporating AI tools. These apps are perfect for streamlining the editing process and can be incredibly helpful when working with many photos.
Additionally, it may be worth considering a specialized editing application if you’re looking to achieve precise editing. Some apps on our list specialize in different edits, like fixing perspective or removing objects. Although they can only make one adjustment, they do a great job.
Key accessories
An editing app primarily serves the purpose of editing content. However, it’s essential to pay attention to the additional features. Here are some extra features that photographers and photo editors may find helpful beyond basic editing.
Certain editing apps include integrated cameras. These tools allow you to shoot and edit your content in a single location conveniently.
Now, let’s talk about image organization. While it may not be the most thrilling aspect of photography, it is undeniably crucial. Apps are available that offer convenient features like folders, ratings, and keywords to help you organize your image library efficiently.
Integrating cloud storage can be a game-changer, especially if you enjoy editing on different devices. You can easily switch between devices to edit your work. Start on your desktop, then continue on your phone or tablet while you’re on the move, and finish up on your laptop while on the job.
Lastly, we should talk about exporting and sharing. Certain apps offer the convenience of exporting files in various formats and sharing them directly on social media platforms, saving you a lot of time.
When selecting an editing app, it’s important to consider these additional features. While not necessary, they can greatly simplify your life.
Compatibility and performance
Many photo editing apps are compatible with iOS and Android devices, although some are specifically designed for one platform. Choosing the right app for your smartphone or tablet is crucial.
Before getting too excited about the app, carefully examine the available versions. Keep in mind that the app may have different features on Android and iPhone versions. Also, make sure to check reviews for the specific version you’re planning to download.
Finally, we should discuss performance. Certain apps may require more resources to run smoothly on your mobile device, and various factors can influence their performance. It’s essential to check the system requirements to avoid unexpected crashes and frustration.
Price
Photo editing apps come in a wide range of prices, from free to more expensive options. Additionally, their pricing models can differ. Certain options are available for purchase with a single payment, while some may require a subscription.
Generally, apps that cost more tend to offer a broader selection of features. However, it’s important to note that a higher price sometimes guarantees better quality. Several apps mentioned in this article provide excellent features without any cost.
Consider whether you’ll use the advanced features before making a significant purchase. A cost-effective or budget-friendly app would suffice. Also, make sure to look out for any available free trials. Testing a paid app before committing is highly recommended.
Final Words
Ultimately, the perfect Photo editing apps should be tailored to your needs. The product should provide a user-friendly experience and include all the necessary features to help you accomplish your goals. Most importantly, it will enhance your photos significantly!
Take your time when choosing the ideal app for photo editing. Discover a variety of apps. Make sure to make the most of those free trials. Try out different tools. Also, keep in mind that you have the flexibility to use multiple apps to enhance your editing workflow. There’s no need to limit yourself to just one.
FAQ
Are paid Photo editing apps better than free Photo editing apps?
Some editing apps require payment and offer additional features, but there are also great free options like Snapseed and Photoshop Express.
Should I have more than one editing app?
It varies depending on your requirements. In our experience, it can be beneficial to use separate apps for various tasks.
What if I like smartphone photography but prefer to edit on my computer?
If editing on your phone isn’t your thing, consider using an app that simplifies transferring pictures between your phone and computer. Lightroom is an excellent option for this, and it’s available with an Adobe subscription. You could also consider using a cloud service like Dropbox.
What is the best photo editing app?
We love using Snapseed and Lightroom Mobile. They’re both fantastic photo editing apps. However, no single app reigns supreme over the rest. The key is to find the one that suits you best. It will vary based on your phone, budget, editing needs, and personal preference.
