If you are a devout Photoshop fan, then stop reading here. For those of you who are interested in obtaining free photo editing “alternatives,” – I use this term loosely as the general claim maintains no on-par substitute exists – then, by all means, read on and get your photo-mojo editing groove on.

Download for Free

1. Gimp

Stands for “GNU image manipulation program” and heralds as the most-like-Photoshop program, with similar features that range from simple photo enhancement and digital retouching to complex image manipulation procedures, augmented by plugins and extensions. The tutorial page offers many levels and variations of instruction. Download required.

2. Paint.net

A replacement for MSPaint, this requires Windows to run. Browse through the vast tutorial section under forum and discover how to create fire, make a before and after image, or cut out part of an image. Be sure to click on the download button on the top, otherwise you will be misled into downloading Gimp.

3. Picasa

A basic program that also serves as a free photo management system. Most digital camera users will find the selection of tools easy to use for cropping, color correction, and editing effects. The collage tool is one of its best attributes. For Google+ fans, there’s also instant sharing and tagging.

4. Fatpaint

In addition to photo editing, this software is known for graphic design, vector drawing, and logo/text making. In less than five minutes you can create an image for display on a t-shirt or other product.

For Home or On-the-Go

5. Aviary

A quick web demo will win you over with ease of use. As Flickr’s new photo editor,  its Facebook app boasts instant usability, and it’s embeddable into your website or mobile app. Smartphone users, don’t miss this! Ten stylistic effects, such as aqua and indiglo, enhance your photos into beautiful art. Check out their advanced image editor Phoenix if you want to expand your horizons. For the musically inclined, there’s even an online audio editor and music creator.

6. BeFunky

Facebook friendly and fun, this online editing application will help you to create cards with your photos, inspire you with a BeFunky community of ideas, and you can use it while on the go with either your Android or Apple devices.

7. Splashup

Like the now-defunct Picnik, this web-based application integrates easily with photo sharing sites, has an image editing layers tool, and is perfect for editing your photos when online and in a hurry.

8. Pixlr

Another user-friendly online photo editor with the addition of a fun vintage retro look using Pixlr-o-matic. This is definitely worth playing around with!

9. PicMonkey

Some former Picnik engineers got together with a few other folks, including the ostensible monkey, and PicMonkey was born. Super simple yet filled with plenty of useful and entertaining editing tools, so be sure to share this program with any young people in your life.

10. FotoFlexer

Yet another online photo editor with a host of interesting tools. View a demo and learn how to cut someone out of a background with smart scissors, play with animation, or turn a normal face into an alien in space.

Your Photo-Editing Debut

Long gone are the days when you have to spend a sizable sum to go from drab to fab with your digital photos. Unless you’re a professional, these free photo editing programs will keep you satisfied for countless hours. Start uploading your photos, begin experimenting, and post and share your creations!