Thanks to social media, we are all constantly on the hunt for the perfect picture. However, when we finally manage to capture one that is worth posting, we prefer to add certain effects that we believe take the photo to a different level. When Photoshop was first introduced, people were abusing its features to the extent that the verb, “photoshopped” became synonymous with anything “fake” or “unreal.” With time and with the rise in the number of independent freelance photographers, photo-editing applications (apps) have come to be used in different ways. Although the old-style “in your face” photoshopping is still there, the majority of people are using photo editing apps on their mobile phones to enhance and dramatize photos rather than completely alter them. Many photo editing apps are available to download and the majority are even for free. If you are interested in finding out which ones are worth your time, then keep reading to learn about the top ones to use on your smartphone.
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Snapseed
Snapseed is one of the most downloaded free photo editing apps. With the numerous editing tools that are simple and easy to use, this app is always a great option if you are still a beginner in the world of photo editing. Not only can you edit photos instantly by using the different presets available, but you can also create your own and save them for future use. Snapseed is free to download on both iOS and Android. Start playing around with its exciting features and filters before you move on to something more professional.
VSCO
If you prefer your photos to have a more classic vintage style, then VSCO is the right editing app for you. The majority of its filters tone-down and reduce the sharpness of your mobile photos. The end result will remind you of the nostalgic printed photos caught on film. People like to use this app when they want their photos to convey a sense of familiarity and relatability. The basic version of VSCO allows you to access more than a few filters for free. However, if you are looking to access more, you need to pay an annual subscription and additional editing tools will be unlocked as well. VSCO is compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones.
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TouchRetouch
This app is a savior for your distorted photos. You definitely know the annoying feeling of going back home and scrolling through the photos you took on the family beach day, and you see that everything looks “picture perfect” except for your ice cream mustache that ensures this photo is destined for your “Deleted” folder. With TouchRetouch App, this will no longer be the case. This photo editing app will allow you to easily wipe out any smears or blotches that threaten to ruin an otherwise perfect photo. However, it takes practice to get the hang of it and be able to achieve expert-level editing. TouchRetouch can be downloaded on any smartphone in exchange for a subscription fee. Nevertheless, you will find that the small fee is totally worth it, given how thankful your friends will be, for giving them smooth, winkle free complexions in your 20-year school reunion photo album!
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Although not exclusively a photo editing app, Instagram filters and photo editing tools cannot be omitted when we are talking about the top photo editing apps. It is safe to say that the professionals at Instagram knew what they were doing when they were developing their list of editing tools. They must have had a good idea about creating perfect photos, and there is a good chance that it was the reason why you became involved with photo editing in the first place. With the color enhancement feature and light exposure adjustment -although not as comprehensive as other apps- Instagram tools can be enough to brush up your photos. Instagram editing tools are readily available on the app, so you do not need to download extra apps. After using any of the above ones, you can still benefit from its editing tools for final retouches before posting.
The picture-perfect photo is no longer a dream. All of the above editing apps and many more will guarantee that you have amazing photos every time. Based on your needs, you can decide which app or collection of apps to use. If you are an aspiring professional photographer, then paying for professional editing apps will be a worthy investment, unlike looking to give your photos some touch-ups before sharing them on your feed. Regardless of your needs, you can easily learn how to best use all of the above apps by watching online tutorials to help you navigate the special features they each have to offer.
