PHOTO EDITORS

Photoshop was once essential, but now we need more than layers and masks. We test ten of the best photo-editing packages around

- 

What to look for

Everyone’s photo editing needs are different. Here are some things to consider...

Cataloguing tools

If your photo collection numbers in the tens of thousands, you need a tool to bring them all together in a single searchable database. Cataloguing tools mean you can create albums or collections, use keywords to find specific images and filter photos by the date they were taken and more.

Non-destructive

Some programs offer ‘non-destructive’ editing tools. All adjustments are ‘virtual’ and the original image stays unaltered. They can also edit RAW files alongside JPEGs with no separate processing stage. Many also offer ‘virtual copies’ so you can edit a single image without making copies on your computer.

Image layers

If you want to blend multiple images into composites, you need a ‘destructive’ editor like Photoshop or Affinity Photo. Some programs offer support for layered images, but they create new files and a different editing mode. Lightroom and Capture One don’t do layers but both work with programs that do.

One-click presets

Traditional photo editors, such as Photoshop, are designed for those who know what they want to do. Lightroom takes the opposite approach, offering image styles that can be applied. If you like to see ideas for how your images could look, then programs with big libraries of presets are ideal.

One-off purchase