Best Free Photo Editing Software for Mac: Top 5 Options for High-Quality Editing

Mac users looking for the best free photo editing software have a range of options to choose from. With so many photo editing software available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use. However, we have compiled a list of the best free photo editing software for Mac in 2023 to help you make an informed decision.

From GIMP to Fotor, these photo editing software offer a range of features that can help you edit your photos like a pro. Whether you are a professional photographer or just someone who enjoys editing photos, there is a photo editing software on this list that will meet your needs. With these software, you can crop, resize, add filters, adjust brightness and contrast, and much more. So, without further ado, let's dive into the best free photo editing software for Mac in 2023.

Understanding Photo Editing

Photo editing is the process of manipulating images to enhance their quality or to achieve a specific look or style. Photo editing software provides a range of tools and features that allow users to adjust various aspects of an image, such as brightness, contrast, color, and sharpness.

Image manipulation is a type of photo editing that involves altering an image in a way that changes its original meaning or context. It can include adding or removing elements from the image, merging multiple images together, or applying special effects.

Image processing is a broader term that refers to any type of manipulation or analysis of digital images using a computer. It can include tasks such as image compression, image restoration, and image recognition.

When working with digital images, photographers often shoot in a format called RAW. RAW images contain all of the data captured by the camera's sensor, providing greater flexibility in post-processing. Many photo editing software programs support RAW image editing, allowing users to make more advanced adjustments to their images.

Overall, photo editing software provides photographers and digital artists with a powerful set of tools for enhancing and manipulating their images. With the right skills and techniques, users can create stunning works of art and bring their creative visions to life.

Best Free Photo Editing Software for Mac

Mac users have a variety of options when it comes to photo editing software. In this section, we will explore the best free photo editing software for Mac. These software options are available for macOS and can be used on Macs, including the MacBook.

1. GIMP

GIMP is a popular open-source photo editing software that is free to use and available for Mac. It offers a wide range of features, including layers, masks, and filters. GIMP is a great option for those who are looking for a powerful photo editing software that does not cost anything.

2. Pixlr X

Pixlr X is a web-based photo editor that is available for free. It is easy to use and offers a variety of features, including crop, resize, and filters. Pixlr X is a great option for those who are looking for a simple and easy-to-use photo editing software.

3. Fotor

Fotor is another free photo editing software for Mac that offers a range of features, including basic editing tools, filters, and effects. It also includes a collage maker and batch processing capabilities. Fotor is a good option for those who are looking for a simple yet powerful photo editing software.

4. Canva

Canva is a popular graphic design software that also offers photo editing capabilities. It is free to use and offers a range of features, including filters, effects, and basic editing tools. Canva is a great option for those who are looking for a photo editing software that also offers graphic design capabilities.

5. Paint.NET

Paint.NET is a free photo editing software for Mac that offers a range of features, including layers, filters, and effects. It is easy to use and offers a simple interface. Paint.NET is a good option for those who are looking for a basic photo editing software that is easy to use.

In conclusion, these are the best free photo editing software for Mac that are available for download. These software options offer a range of features and capabilities that are suitable for both beginners and professionals. Whether you are looking for a powerful photo editing software or a simple and easy-to-use option, there is something for everyone on this list.

Adobe Suite

Adobe is one of the most popular photo editing software brands in the market. It offers a wide range of software options for photo editing, including Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop Elements, and Adobe Express. Adobe also offers a Creative Cloud subscription, which gives users access to all of their software options.

Adobe Photoshop is considered the industry-standard for photo editing software. It offers powerful tools for photo editing, including advanced layering, masking, and retouching features. It is also a great option for graphic design and digital art. However, it can be quite expensive for individual users.

Adobe Lightroom is another popular option for photo editing. It is designed for photographers and offers a wide range of features for organizing, editing, and sharing photos. It has a user-friendly interface and offers advanced features like batch editing and presets.

Adobe Photoshop Elements is a more affordable option for those who don't need all the features of Adobe Photoshop. It offers a range of basic photo editing tools, including cropping, color correction, and retouching. It also has a user-friendly interface and is a good option for beginners.

Adobe Express is a mobile app that offers basic photo editing tools for free. It is a good option for quick and easy edits on-the-go.

Overall, Adobe offers a wide range of options for photo editing, from basic to advanced features. However, it can be quite expensive for individual users, and the Creative Cloud subscription may not be worth it for those who only need a few of Adobe's software options.

Open-Source Alternatives

For those who prefer open-source software, there are several options available for photo editing on a Mac. These programs are free to use and offer a range of features that can rival commercial software.

One of the most popular open-source photo editing programs is GIMP, which stands for GNU Image Manipulation Program. GIMP is a powerful and versatile program that can handle a wide range of image editing tasks, including photo retouching, image composition, and graphic design. It supports a range of file formats, including JPEG, PNG, GIF, and TIFF, and offers a range of tools and filters to help you enhance your photos.

Another open-source photo editing program worth considering is Darktable, which is designed specifically for photographers. Darktable offers a range of features for managing and editing photos, including support for RAW files, non-destructive editing, and a range of tools for adjusting exposure, color, and tone. It also offers a range of plugins and modules to help you extend its functionality.

Krita is another open-source program that can be used for photo editing. While it is primarily designed for digital painting and drawing, it also offers a range of features for photo editing, including support for layers, masks, and filters. Krita offers a range of brushes and tools that can be used for retouching, color correction, and other photo editing tasks.

Overall, open-source photo editing software offers a great alternative to commercial software. While they may not have all the features of commercial software, they are free to use and offer a range of powerful tools for photo editing. Whether you are a professional photographer or just someone who enjoys editing photos, open-source software is definitely worth considering.

Online and Browser-Based Tools

If you don't want to download software onto your Mac, you can use online photo editors or browser-based tools. These tools are convenient, as they don't require any installation and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.

One popular online photo editor is Pixlr. This browser-based tool offers a range of features, including basic editing tools, filters, and effects. It also allows you to work with layers, which is useful for more advanced editing. Pixlr is free to use, but there is a premium version with additional features.

Another browser-based tool is Canva. While Canva is primarily a graphic design tool, it also offers basic photo editing features. You can crop, adjust brightness and contrast, and add filters to your photos. Canva is free to use, but there is a premium version with additional features.

If you're looking for a more advanced browser-based tool, consider Photoscape X. This tool offers a range of features, including batch editing, filters, and advanced editing tools. It also allows you to create collages and GIFs. Photoscape X is free to use, but there is a premium version with additional features.

Overall, online photo editors and browser-based tools can be a great option for those who don't want to download software onto their Mac. Pixlr, Canva, and Photoscape X are just a few of the many options available.

Mac Specific Software

When it comes to photo editing software for Mac, there are several options available that are specifically designed for the Apple operating system. These software options offer features that are optimized for Mac's hardware and software, making them a popular choice among Mac users.

Pixelmator

Pixelmator is a popular photo editing software for Mac that offers a wide range of features. It is designed specifically for Mac and takes advantage of the latest hardware and software features. Pixelmator is available in two versions, Pixelmator and Pixelmator Pro. The standard version is free and offers basic features for photo editing, while the Pro version is a paid upgrade that provides advanced features such as machine learning-powered editing tools.

Apple Photos

Apple Photos is a built-in photo management and editing software that comes with every Mac. It offers a wide range of features for organizing, editing, and sharing photos. Apple Photos is easy to use and offers basic photo editing tools such as cropping, resizing, and color correction. It also offers advanced features such as facial recognition and automatic organization of photos.

Luminar

Luminar is a popular photo editing software for Mac that offers a wide range of features. It is designed to be a complete photo editing solution and offers advanced features such as AI-powered editing tools and a wide range of filters and presets. Luminar is available in two versions, Luminar and Luminar Neo. The standard version is a paid software that offers advanced features, while the Neo version is a free software that offers basic photo editing tools.

Picktorial

Picktorial is a photo editing software for Mac that offers a wide range of features. It is designed to be a complete photo editing solution and offers advanced features such as RAW editing and a wide range of filters and presets. Picktorial is easy to use and offers a clean and intuitive interface.

Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a popular photo editing software for Mac that offers a wide range of features. It is designed to be a complete photo editing solution and offers advanced features such as RAW editing and a wide range of filters and presets. Affinity Photo is easy to use and offers a clean and intuitive interface.

Overall, when it comes to photo editing software for Mac, there are several options available that are specifically designed for the Apple operating system. These software options offer features that are optimized for Mac's hardware and software, making them a popular choice among Mac users.

Features to Look for

When it comes to choosing the best free photo editing software for Mac, it's important to consider the features that are available. Here are some key features to look for:

Filters and Effects

One of the most important features to look for in a photo editor is the ability to add filters and effects. These can help you enhance the colors, contrast, and overall look of your photos. Look for a program that offers a wide range of filters and effects, from basic adjustments like brightness and saturation to more advanced effects like vintage and cinematic.

Layers and Masking

Layers and masking are essential features for more advanced photo editing. Layers allow you to work on different parts of your photo separately, while masking allows you to selectively apply adjustments to specific areas. This can be especially useful for things like removing blemishes or adjusting the exposure in specific parts of the photo.

Noise Reduction

Another important feature to look for is noise reduction. This can help you reduce the graininess or "noise" that can sometimes appear in photos, especially in low light conditions. Look for a program that offers both automatic and manual noise reduction options, so you can adjust the settings to your liking.

Tethered Shooting

If you're a professional photographer, tethered shooting can be a useful feature to have. This allows you to connect your camera directly to your computer and control it from the software. This can be especially useful for things like studio photography, where you need to see your photos on a larger screen in real-time.

Guided Edits

For beginners, guided edits can be a useful feature to have. This provides step-by-step instructions for common editing tasks, such as removing red-eye or adjusting the brightness and contrast. Look for a program that offers a range of guided edits, so you can learn new skills and improve your editing abilities.

Advanced Effects

For more advanced users, look for a program that offers advanced effects like HDR, panorama stitching, and selective focus. These can help you create more dramatic and eye-catching photos, and can be especially useful for landscape or architectural photography.

Auto Enhance

Finally, look for a program that offers automatic enhancement tools. These can help you quickly improve the overall look of your photos with just a few clicks. Look for a program that offers a range of automatic enhancements, from basic adjustments like brightness and contrast to more advanced options like color correction and noise reduction.

Usability and Interface

When it comes to photo editing software, the usability and interface are crucial factors to consider. A user-friendly interface can make all the difference in terms of how easy and enjoyable it is to use the software. The following are some key points to consider regarding the usability and interface of free photo editing software for Mac.

Interface

The interface of a photo editing software can significantly affect the user experience. A clean and intuitive interface can help users navigate through the software with ease, while a cluttered and complicated interface can be overwhelming for beginners. Most free photo editing software for Mac offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it ideal for beginners and amateurs.

Workflow

A well-designed workflow can make the photo editing process more efficient and enjoyable. Free photo editing software for Mac usually comes with a streamlined workflow that guides users through the editing process. This workflow often includes features such as basic editing tools, filters, and effects, making it easier for users to achieve their desired results.

Beginner-friendly

Free photo editing software for Mac is often designed with beginners in mind. These software programs usually come with a range of features that are easy to use, making them ideal for those who are new to photo editing. Additionally, some software programs offer tutorials and step-by-step guides to help users get started.

Amateurs

Free photo editing software for Mac is also suitable for amateurs who want to edit their photos without investing in expensive software. These software programs offer a range of features that are easy to use, making it possible for amateurs to achieve professional-looking results.

Overall, the usability and interface of free photo editing software for Mac are essential factors to consider when choosing a software program. With a user-friendly interface, streamlined workflow, and beginner-friendly features, free photo editing software for Mac can be an excellent choice for both beginners and amateurs.

Additional Tools and Support

In addition to the basic editing tools, many free photo editing software for Mac offer additional tools and support to enhance your editing experience. Here are some of the most common ones:

Text

Text tools allow you to add text to your photos. This can be useful for creating memes, adding captions, or watermarking your images. Most free photo editing software for Mac include basic text tools, such as font selection, size, and color. Some also offer advanced features like text effects and curved text.

Templates and Presets

Templates and presets can save you time by providing pre-made designs or settings that you can apply to your photos. Many free photo editing software for Mac include templates and presets for common editing tasks, such as color correction and photo effects.

Plugin/Plug-in Support

Plugin support allows you to extend the functionality of your photo editing software by adding third-party plugins. This can be useful for adding specialized features, such as noise reduction or lens correction. Not all free photo editing software for Mac support plugins, but some do, such as GIMP.

Layering

Layering allows you to work with multiple elements in your photo separately, such as text, shapes, and images. This gives you more control over your editing process and allows you to make more complex designs. Most free photo editing software for Mac support layering, although some may have limitations on the number of layers you can use.

Gradients

Gradients allow you to create smooth transitions between colors. This can be useful for creating backgrounds or adding effects to your photos. Some free photo editing software for Mac include gradient tools, such as GIMP.

Chromatic Aberration Correction Tool

Chromatic aberration is a common problem in photography that causes color fringing around edges. Some free photo editing software for Mac include a chromatic aberration correction tool, which can help you fix this issue. For example, Darktable includes a chromatic aberration correction tool that can detect and correct color fringing in your photos.

Overall, the additional tools and support offered by free photo editing software for Mac can help you take your editing to the next level. While not all software includes every feature, it's worth exploring different options to find the one that best fits your needs.

File Formats and Compatibility

When it comes to photo editing software, one of the most important factors to consider is compatibility with different file formats. Mac users often work with RAW files, which are uncompressed images that contain all the data captured by the camera's sensor. Therefore, it is essential to choose a photo editing software that supports RAW files.

Most of the best free photo editing software for Mac are compatible with a wide range of file formats, including JPEG, PNG, TIFF, PSD, and RAW files. However, it is essential to check the software's specifications to ensure that it supports the file formats you need to work with.

For instance, GIMP is one of the most popular free photo editing software for Mac, and it supports a wide range of file formats, including JPEG, PNG, TIFF, PSD, and RAW files. It also offers advanced features such as layer masks, color correction tools, and customizable brushes.

Another great free photo editing software for Mac is Darktable, which is specifically designed for working with RAW files. It supports a wide range of RAW file formats, including those from popular camera brands such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony. It also offers advanced features such as non-destructive editing and color management tools.

It is also worth noting that some free photo editing software for Mac may not be compatible with other operating systems such as Windows, Linux, or iPhone. Therefore, it is essential to choose a software that is compatible with the operating system you use.

In conclusion, when choosing the best free photo editing software for Mac, it is essential to consider compatibility with different file formats, especially RAW files. It is also important to ensure that the software is compatible with the operating system you use.

Photo Editing Apps

When it comes to photo editing on a Mac, there are plenty of options available, both free and paid. In this section, we'll be focusing on the best free photo editing apps for Mac.

Photoshop Express

Photoshop Express is a free, streamlined version of Adobe's popular photo editing software, Photoshop. It offers a range of tools and features for basic photo editing, such as cropping, resizing, and color adjustment. While it may not have all the advanced features of the full version of Photoshop, it's a great option for those who want a simple, easy-to-use photo editor.

GIMP

GIMP is a free, open-source photo editing software that has been around for decades. It offers a wide range of tools and features, including advanced color correction, layer masks, and customizable brushes. While it may not be as user-friendly as some other photo editing apps, it's a powerful tool that's great for those who want a more advanced editing experience.

Fotor

Fotor is a free photo editing app that offers a range of tools and features for basic photo editing, such as cropping, resizing, and color adjustment. It also has a range of filters and effects that can be applied to photos to give them a unique look. While it may not be as feature-packed as some other photo editing apps, it's a great option for those who want a simple, easy-to-use photo editor.

Canva

While Canva is primarily a graphic design tool, it also offers a range of photo editing features. It's a great option for those who want to create social media graphics or other types of visual content, as it offers a range of templates and design elements. While it may not have all the advanced features of some other photo editing apps, it's a great option for those who want to create visually appealing content quickly and easily.

Other Free Photo Editing Apps for Mac

There are plenty of other free photo editing apps available for Mac, including Google Photos, Pixlr X, and PhotoScape. While they may not have all the features of some of the more popular photo editing apps, they're still great options for those who want to do basic photo editing without spending any money.

Storage and Cloud Options

When it comes to photo editing, storage and cloud options are essential. With the rise of cloud computing, it's essential to have a reliable storage option that can keep up with your needs. Here are some of the best storage and cloud options for Mac users.

iCloud Photo Library

iCloud Photo Library is Apple's cloud storage service for photos and videos. It's built into every Apple device and automatically syncs your photos and videos across all your devices. This means that you can access your photos and videos from anywhere, whether you're on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad.

One of the best things about iCloud Photo Library is that it's seamless and easy to use. You don't have to worry about manually uploading your photos or videos to the cloud. Instead, everything is done automatically in the background. iCloud Photo Library also offers a range of editing tools that allow you to make basic adjustments to your photos.

Google Photos

Google Photos is a free cloud storage service that allows you to store an unlimited number of photos and videos. It's available on both Mac and PC, and it's one of the best options for those who want to store their photos in the cloud.

One of the best things about Google Photos is that it offers a range of editing tools that allow you to make basic adjustments to your photos. It also has a powerful search function that allows you to find specific photos quickly and easily.

Other Cloud Storage Options

There are many other cloud storage options available for Mac users. Some of the most popular include Dropbox, OneDrive, and Amazon Photos. These services offer different features and pricing plans, so it's essential to do your research to find the best option for your needs.

Overall, having a reliable storage and cloud option is essential for photo editing. Whether you choose iCloud Photo Library, Google Photos, or another cloud storage service, make sure that it meets your needs and provides the features you require.

Advanced Photo Editing Techniques

When it comes to advanced photo editing, professional photographers often turn to software that offers non-destructive editing. This means that the original image is not altered, and any changes made are saved separately. This allows for greater flexibility and the ability to revert back to the original image if needed.

One important aspect of advanced photo editing is color correction. This involves adjusting the colors in an image to ensure they are accurate and balanced. This can be done manually using tools such as the color balance or curves adjustment, or with the help of automated tools such as the auto color correction feature.

Another important technique is color balance. This involves adjusting the balance between the different colors in an image to achieve a desired look or feel. This can be done using the color balance tool, which allows for adjustments to the shadows, midtones, and highlights separately.

In addition to these techniques, there are many other advanced photo editing tools available in free software for Mac. These include:

Layers: Allows for greater control over different elements in an image, and the ability to make changes to specific layers without affecting the rest of the image.

Masks: Allows for selective editing of specific areas of an image, such as applying an effect to only the sky or a person's face.

Clone stamp: Allows for the removal of unwanted elements in an image by cloning a nearby area and replacing it.

Healing brush: Allows for the removal of imperfections in an image, such as blemishes or scratches.

Overall, free photo editing software for Mac offers a wide range of advanced editing techniques and tools for professional photographers and hobbyists alike. With the right skills and knowledge, it is possible to achieve stunning results without the need for expensive software.

Printing and Sharing

Once you have edited your photos to perfection, you may want to print them or share them with others. Fortunately, many of the best free photo editing software for Mac come with built-in printing and sharing features.

Printing

If you want to print your photos, most photo editing software will allow you to do so directly from the program. You can usually choose the size and quality of the print, and some software will even offer templates for creating photo books or collages.

When printing, it is important to ensure that your monitor is calibrated correctly. This will ensure that the colors in your printed photos match the colors on your screen. Some photo editing software will offer a calibration tool to help you achieve accurate colors.

Sharing

Sharing your photos with others has never been easier. Most photo editing software will allow you to share your photos directly from the program to social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can also email your photos or save them to cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox.

If you want to create a photo book or collage to share with others, some photo editing software will offer templates or tools to help you do so. These templates can be a great way to create a professional-looking photo book or collage without spending a lot of time or money.

Overall, the best free photo editing software for Mac will offer a range of printing and sharing options to help you get the most out of your edited photos. Whether you want to print your photos, share them on social media, or create a photo book or collage, there is sure to be a program that meets your needs.