Top-Awarded Image Editing Software of 2022
From casual shooters to professional photographers, image editors are a dime a dozen. Whether you work on your craft in a studio or out in the field, an image editor can be a valuable tool for fixing problem areas and perfecting photos. However, with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start your search.
To help you, we’ve put together a list of the top-awarded image editing software of 2022. These programs have received high marks from both users and experts, offering a wide range of features to suit your needs.
Why Are Image Editors Important?
According to a study by the University of Missouri, people tend to believe images over text. In other words, a photo is worth a thousand words—and sometimes more. That’s why image editors are so important. They give you the power to make your photos look their best, whether you’re shooting for a magazine cover or want to capture some memories for your scrapbook.
What to Look for in an Image Editor
When you’re shopping for an image editor, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, consider what kinds of features you need. Do you want something basic that can crop and resize photos? Or do you need to be more advanced to remove blemishes and improve lighting?
Next, think about your budget. Some image editors are free, while others can cost hundreds of dollars. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start your search.
Finally, take some time to read reviews from other users. This is a great way to get an idea of what each program is like to use and whether it’s a good fit for your needs. You can check a list of image editing software recommended by Shotkit to help you get started so that you can weigh your options.
Best Image Editing Software To Work On
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to start shopping. Here are our top picks for the best image editing software of the year:
Adobe Photoshop
Arguably the most well-known image editor on the market, Adobe Photoshop is a powerhouse program with nearly limitless capabilities. Whether a beginner or a pro, you can find features to suit your needs.
And with frequent updates, you can be sure you’re always getting the latest and most excellent tools. However, all those features come at a price—Photoshop can be one of the more expensive options on this list. But if you’re serious about photography, it’s worth the investment.
Adobe Lightroom
If you’re looking for a more affordable option from Adobe, check out Adobe Lightroom. This program offers many of the same features as Photoshop but is geared more toward beginners and casual shooters.
It’s great to get started with image editing without breaking the bank. And like Photoshop, Lightroom is constantly updated with new features and tools.
Corel PaintShop Pro
Another affordable alternative to Photoshop is Corel PaintShop Pro. This program offers a wide range of features and editing tools, making it an excellent choice for casual shooters and professionals.
PaintShop Pro is easy to use and has a built-in learning center to help you get the hang of things. Plus, it’s compatible with both Windows and Mac computers.
Skylum Luminar
If you’re looking for an image editor with artificial intelligence (AI) features, Skylum Luminar is a great option. This program can automatically enhance your photos with one click, making it perfect for busy shooters who don’t have much time to edit.
Luminar also offers a wide range of manual editing tools if you prefer more control over your photos. And it’s compatible with both RAW and JPEG files.
Affinity Photo
For something different, check out Affinity Photo. This program was designed specifically for photographers and showed its features and interface.
Affinity Photo is packed with powerful editing tools, but it’s still easy to use, thanks to its intuitive design. Plus, it’s compatible with Mac, Windows, and iPad computers.
DxO PhotoLab
If you’re looking for an image editor with raw processing capabilities, DxO PhotoLab is an excellent option. This program offers a wide range of features for both RAW and JPEG files.
It also includes automatic lens corrections and noise reduction, making it an excellent choice for busy shooters. However, DxO PhotoLab can be one of the more expensive options on this list.
ON1 PhotoRAW
Another great option for raw processing is ON1 PhotoRAW. This program offers a wide range of editing tools and built-in layers and masking capabilities.
It’s also compatible with many file types, making it a versatile choice for busy shooters. However, like DxO PhotoLab, ON1 PhotoRAW can be on the expensive side.
CyberLink PhotoDirector
With its smooth interface, CyberLink PhotoDirector is an excellent choice for busy shooters who don’t have much time to edit. From animated effects to automatic image adjustments, this program can help you get your photos looking their best with just a few clicks.
And it’s compatible with both Windows and Mac computers. An incredible tool for busy shooters.
Final words
Software tools for image editing are constantly evolving, so choosing one that will meet your needs both now and in the future is essential. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?
The best way to find out is to try a few different programs and see which one you’re most comfortable with. And don’t forget to take advantage of free trials when available. That way, you can test out each program before making a purchase.
No matter which program you choose, always remember that practice makes perfect. The more you use an image editor, the better you’ll become at using its features and tools. So dive in and start exploring today.
