> GIMP

GIMP, short for GNU Image Manipulation Program, is an advanced open-source image editing software. It includes a vast array of functions and features as well as support for adding more plugins created by the community. This program supports layers, includes filters, allows for level adjustments, has customizable brushes, and everything in between. As open-source software, it is always free and there are never any ads.

While GIMP may have everything you need and so much more, the one thing it doesn’t have is a simple, beginner-friendly interface. The program layout and toolboxes are customizable which can be helpful for advanced users but confusing and overwhelming for someone who is just trying to remove the background of a photo.

GIMP is best for users who are experienced in image editing and perhaps familiar with Adobe Photoshop.

> Paint.NET

Paint.NET started as a college design project and grew from there. While it was once a simple alternative to Microsoft Paint, it has developed into a more advanced and powerful photo editor. Its many useful features include unlimited undos, special effects, and layer support.

This is a less complex option than GIMP for those who find GIMP overwhelming. The interface of Paint.NET somewhat resembles the traditional look and feel of Microsoft Paint of yesteryear. If the included features are not enough for you, this program allows for plugins as well.

A downside to Paint.NET is that it is only available for Windows.

> Ashampoo Photo Optimizer

Ashampoo Photo Optimizer is good for basic editing of photos. Functionality includes cropping, rotating, resizing, and adjusting levels such as brightness, contrast, and saturation. A major benefit of Ashampoo is the ability to load multiple images into the editor and flip through them easily. While it is much more intuitive than GIMP, it also does not have the same kinds of advanced features.

There are no ads but your email may be required in order to obtain a license key. There is also a premium version available for [what appears to be] a one-time fee.

> Movavi Picverse

Movavi really shines when it comes to AI-powered features such as background removal, object removal (that person walking through your nearly-perfect landscape shot), and restoration of old photos. You can also combine elements of individual photos or add new backgrounds.

This software also includes features like color enhancements, photo retouching, and facial recognition. It can open RAW files but will convert them to JPG upon import.

There is also a paid version available for either an annual subscription fee or lifetime membership.

> PhotoDirector Essential

PhotoDirector Essential is the free version of the premium PhotoDirector 365 software. It is beginner-friendly while still including an impressive list of features. This program supports layers, offers advanced editing tools, background removal, filters, animations, and AI-powered enhancements.

This free software has no ads and comes with a 30-day trial of the paid version. There is also a mobile app version, though that may require a paid subscription as well.

> Canva

Canva is a free website-based graphic design tool with a wide range of uses. Their template library includes options for all occasions – presentations, social media posts, merch designs, marketing materials, calendars, menus, invitations and more. A free account includes 1GB of cloud storage for keeping all of your source images and final designs.

Editing features are more toward the graphic design side although some photo effects and adjustments are included as well. The main benefit of Canva is being able to arrange and combine elements such as photos, graphics, text, backgrounds, etc to create a polished piece of media.

Canva also has a mobile app available. There is a premium paid version of the browser-based program, though it is free for all educational institutions and registered nonprofit organizations.

> Fotor

Fotor is an online photo editor with a beginner-friendly interface and all of the basic editing tools you’re likely to need. Features include background removal, retouch, color adjustment, crop and resize, and other photo effects. The filters and enhancements are powerful and high quality. Possibly the best part about Fotor is the ability to batch edit – that is, to apply the same changes to a group of photos all at the same time.

There are tutorials on the site teaching specific looks and techniques for anyone willing to put a little time into advancing their skills. While the overall features are impressive, Fotor does seem to lack the tools for detailed edits.

There are mobile versions available for both iOS and Android.

> Pixlr

There are really two separate options here – Pixlr X for design projects and Pixlr E for photo editing. Pixlr X could be compared to Canva in its use of templates and graphic design elements. This is great for creating photo collages, marketing materials, and similar media. Features focus on text elements, graphics, frames, and other design aspects. Pixlr E also includes templates but allows for more options in terms of photo editing, such as drawing tools, blur/sharpen, clone tool, gradient, and layers.

A few downsides to Pixlr – it does contain distracting ads, it can be slow to render changes, and some templates are only available to paid subscribers. There is a free 30-day trial of the premium version which does not have ads.

> Adobe Photoshop Express

Photoshop Express is a free version of Photoshop, available as a mobile app. The app includes impressive features and capabilities such as background removal, image combining, retouching, effects, and design elements like text and stickers.

Advanced features are available with the paid version and include object removal and RAW image support

> piZap

piZap is an image editor and design tool best for creating social media content such as collages, memes, marketing material, filtered photos, and graphic design posts. Editing tools include filters and effects, stickers, borders, text, and basic photo adjustments. There is even a design-your-own emoji feature (at least in the app version).

Unlike some web-based editors, piZap does require you to sign up for an account. Some features and stock images or templates require the pro version. There is a free 7-day trial of the pro version available. The mobile app is also free but has those paywalls as well.

> PicMonkey

PicMonkey has templates and design tools akin to Canva including templates for social media posts, ads, print media, and other formats. There is a free 7-day trial available and a few different paid plans.

> PaintShop Pro

PaintShop Pro is another big name in the photo editing realm. This software includes all of the premium quality features you’d expect – AI background removal and replacement, layer editing, drawing and painting tools, text, retouch and restore, and a variety of effects and filters.

They offer a 30-day free trial which does not require payment information to sign up, and a refreshing benefit of the paid version is that it is a one-time purchase instead of a recurring subscription fee.

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