Apple Macs are great devices for photo editing, especially for professionals. The Mac’s Retina display, coupled with powerful processors, make for a seamless image editing workflow.
No matter if you’re an amateur looking to enhance your family vacation photos or a professional photographer working under pressure, there are Mac image editors to suit your needs.
Here are the best free and paid image editors for Mac.
The Best Free Mac Image Editors
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If you’re looking for a basic editor, you don’t need to buy a fully featured editing suite. A basic image editor is both easy to use and has all the features that you’d need to fix and enhance your personal photos.
1. Photoscape X
Photoscape X is a great basic image editor for Mac you’ve probably never heard of. It’s an all-in-one app that lets you edit RAW images, fix photos, add filters, and more. Using the brush tool you can quickly fix small issues with your photos. Photoscape has a batch mode that lets you resize and rename photos with just a click.
Download:Photoscape X (Free)
2. GIMP
GIMP is an open source project that’s been in active development for over twenty years. It’s often referred to as the best free photo editor. Thanks to its community-based development, it offers professional features that you only otherwise find in paid apps like Photoshop.
GIMP is laid out like a professional editing tool and has a steep learning curve. But it has all the basic and professional features you would expect from a graphic design suite. GIMP’s Layers feature is powerful and you can even use some Photoshop plugins with GIMP. If you’re new to GIMP, use our introductory guide to GIMPAn Introduction to GIMP Photo Editing: 9 Things You Need to KnowAn Introduction to GIMP Photo Editing: 9 Things You Need to KnowGIMP is the best free photo editing app available. Here's everything you need to know about editing photos in GIMP.Read More to learn the basics.
Download:GIMP (Free)
3. Photos
If all you’re looking for is a simple way to manage your photo library on Mac8 Starter Tips for Managing Your Photos Library on Mac8 Starter Tips for Managing Your Photos Library on MacAre your Mac photos a mess? Follow these beginner's tips to get them under control and improve your picture organization.Read More and perform some basics edits to fix or enhance your personal photos, the built-in Photos app will be more than enough.
The Photos app has a good auto-enhance tool, a crop tool, basic image editing, and filter support. Plus, it has a familiar user interface. If you feel comfortable editing photos in the iPhone Photos app, you’ll be right at home on the Mac version as well.
4. Pixlr X
Pixlr X runs smoothly on any modern web browser. If you only need to edit a couple of photos every now and then, it doesn’t make sense to download a feature-rich image editor. Instead, see if Pixlr’s web-based image editor is enough for you.
Pixlr X has all the basic image editing features you’d expect. You can crop, resize, add filters, and easily remove the background from any image. There are a couple of tools for adjusting the visual elements of the picture and you can add text and doodle over images. If you have a stock image, you can use Pixlr X to quickly create a poster or flyer as well.
Visit:Pixlr X (Free)
The Best Paid Mac Image Editors
If you’re serious about photo editing, you’ll need professional tools. A fully-featured photo editing suite will help improve the quality of your work. Because paid apps are designed for professionals from the ground up, you’ll end up saving a lot of time once you get used to the workflow.
1. Lightroom
Lightroom is the default photo editor for professional photographers. Lightroom’s workflow sets it apart. Other than the stellar photo editing features, it also has a simple yet robust image organization feature. And this is why a lot of professionals stick with Lightroom.
If you’re clicking thousands of photos for a project and you need to select a couple of dozen good ones, Lightroom makes the process easy for you. You can skim through thousands of RAW files, mark the important photos, move them to a different directory, edit them in a particular style, save that style as a preset, go back and apply it to other photos, and then finally export the images in multiple formats.
And once you’re done with the project, you can use Lightroom’s library to keep the important photos and back them up using your Adobe Cloud account. For professionals, this is what makes Lightroom’s $9.99/month starting price palatable.
Download:Adobe Lightroom ($9.99/month)
2. Photoshop
Photoshop is a different kind of photo editor. You can think of it as Lightroom’s bigger brother. Photoshop is designed specifically for image manipulation and enhancement. Photoshop is famous for its advanced selection tools, complex layer system, and infinitely customizable brushes.
You can use Lightroom to bring out all of the details from a RAW image file or to enhance an image aesthetically (to fix colors and saturation levels). Once you’re done with that, you can import the image in Photoshop to kick things up a notch. In fact, you can’t edit RAW images in Photoshop without the Camera RAW plugin.
Photoshop is a massive, complex application with over two decades of consistent updates. It has way too many features, but once you master the basics, Photoshop gives you the tools to turn your imagination into reality.
Using Photoshop, you can merge multiple images together, completely change the color palette of an image, and fix parts of an image to make them better (particularly portraits).
Download:Adobe Photoshop ($9.99/month)
3. Affinity Photo
You can think of Affinity Photo as a lightweight version of Photoshop. It has the most common features from Photoshop like the advanced selection tools, brushes, and layer support. Affinity Photos weighs in at 350 MB instead of the 2GB behemoth that is Photoshop. Affinity Photo is also much faster than Photoshop, especially on Macs without a dedicated graphics card.
Plus, unlike Photoshop, you can buy Affinity Photo outright for $49.99. If you don’t like Adobe’s shift towards subscription pricing and increasing dependence on cloud syncing, take a look at Affinity Photo. If you’ve already learned the basics of Photoshop (you can open PSD files in Affinity Photo), it will be much easier to pick up Affinity Photo.
Quicken mac download error 105. Download:Affinity Photo ($49.99)
4. Pixelmator Pro
Pixelmator Pro is a powerful image editing app that’s designed to be easy to use. It’s an all-in-one tool for image manipulation. Pixelmator Pro is a mix of Lightroom, Photoshop, and Illustrator. It has basic features from all three apps.
You can use it to edit RAW images, enhance photos, fix parts of images, and create posters by adding beautiful text and other elements. Pixelmator Pro can stretch itself from being a basic photo editing app to a graphic design suite, depending on your needs and skillset.
Download:Pixelmator Pro ($39.99)
Other Great Mac Apps Worth Using
There’s something for everyone in the apps listed above. We recommend most people start with Pixlr X and see if that does the trick. However, if you’re looking for a fast, beautiful, and feature-rich photo editor that’s designed for the Mac, Affinity Photo is a great choice.
There are many more great Mac apps out there just waiting to be explored. Take a look at our list of the best macOS appsThe Best Mac Apps to Install on Your MacBook or iMacThe Best Mac Apps to Install on Your MacBook or iMacLooking for the best apps for your MacBook or iMac? Here's our comprehensive list of the best apps for macOS.Read More to discover some of the apps you should be installing on your Mac.
Explore more about: Adobe Photoshop, Batch Image Editing, Image Editor, Photography.
Trying to sort out GoPro editing software? You're in the right place! While GoPro makes it easy to shoot video, it takes the right software to edit all those clips into something useable and shareable. Learn about the best GoPro video editors for Windows and Mac (and Linux).
In this post, you'll learn about your options for great GoPro editing software. I'll cover both free and premium programs – for both Windows and Mac. The list includes the best options for editing your GoPro video – according to user ratings and sales volume.
And while these all come well-rated, some just don't work for me. I cover it all in this post. Not interested in premium software? No worries. Here are the best free GoPro editing software.
GoPro Editing Software: Winners
Before we get into all the details, here are the programs that you should check out:
9 GoPro Video Editing Apps
Before we get into the full set of programs, there are also a few mobile apps for editing GoPro video. Many of these integrate with the full programs below.
13 GoPro Editing Software Options
Okay, with the editing apps out of the way, let's get started! Here are the GoPro editing software options that I'll cover in this post.
Honorable mentions: Blender Editor(Free) While this goes waaaay beyond a basic video editor, I feel my list wouldn't be complete without it. This is a complex open source 3D creation program. If you're interested to develop your video skills, this is a great program to play with. Plus, it's free!
While most of the programs on the list are great, a few of the options might be better to avoid.
Only a few players… The options in this list are dominated by a few companies. Apple, Adobe, Corel, and BlackMagic Design all have two programs each. Magix has three programs – now with their acquisition of the Vegas line from Sony. In addition to the above video-focused options. you can also edit video with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
Here's what I'm using: I use Quik and Sony Movie Studio. I have used Adobe Premiere Pro but found it to be too complex for my needs. I also use Camtasia occasionally.
Note: I have not tested the majority of the programs in this list. Over the coming months, I plan to review some of my favorite options (Magix, Cyberlink, and Corel). I'll be publishing detailed reviews of each of these.
1. Quik Desktop (Free) Windows and Mac
This is solid video editing software – especially for being free. It does take a little getting used to – but once you have it, it's super easy to output great video edits.
Quik is aptly named – as you can quickly create awesome videos from your footage (and synced to music). Automatically import your photos and footage and then share the best ones.
2. iMovie for Mac (Free) iOS
This is great software for Mac users.
In addition to footage captured with the iPhone and iPad, it also edits 4K video from GoPro, and lots of cameras like GoPro (including DJI, Sony, Panasonic and Leica).
Similar to GoPro Studio's templates, iMovie provides 15 movie themes that include titles and transitions. This will speed up your editing process and give it a professional (or playful) feel.
3. Magix Movie Edit Pro ($70) Windows w/ Android App
This is a dynamic piece of software. Its feature list reads more like a premium program – than one that costs just $70.
It comes with 1500+ templates (effects, menus, and sounds) for fast, professional videos. They have a great set of short, video tutorials.
It has 32 multimedia tracks. This is significant when compared to other base models that have just a couple. I can't image a video edit that will require more than 32 tracks.
Both Dena and I own and use this program. It is simple to use, feature-rich, and just $70. Watch for a full review in the coming months.
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4. Cyberlink PowerDirector Ultra 17 Windows
Although I still haven't used CyberLink, I like the looks of this software. Hundreds of our readers have opted to use PowerDirector to edit their GoPro footage. It was made with action cameras in mind.
It can edit up to 100 media tracks simultaneously. Geforce 7300 gs windows 7 driver download. And it has a powerful MultiCam Designer feature that allows switching between 4 simultaneous camera shots. Footage can be synced by audio, timecode or time taken.
It has one-click color correction, customizable design tools (transition designer, title and subtitle designs) and has integrated video collages. It can also edit footage from a 360º camera – like the GoPro Fusion.
PowerDirector is a 10-Time Editors' choice and rated 4.5 out of 5 by PCMag.com.
“PowerDirector continues to lead the way among consumer video editing software. The latest version's Precut, Nested Projects, and advanced titling features bring it closer to the professional level.” PCMag, US, 09/2018
Watch on YouTube
Where to buy PowerDirector Ultra:CyberLink | Amazon
5. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate 2018 Windows
It's been more than 12 years since I used a Corel product – but this video editor has caught my attention.
This version comes with multi-camera editor – editing up to six different cameras in one project. The less expensive Pro version will edit footage from up to four cameras in the same project.
There are presets for beginners (FastFlick and Instant Projects) and advanced settings (stabilization, motion effects, and color correction). Edit up to 21 video tracks and 8 audio tracks in each project.
Check this out on Corel.com and Amazon
Corel makes another video editing program called Roxio Studio. While it can edit footage, this is primarily for DVD authoring.
6. Corel Pinnacle Studio 22 Ultimate Windows
This is a popular choice. Corel also makes a supporting premium app for iOS (Basic $3.99 and Professional $17.99).
The desktop version comes in three levels (Standard, Plus, and Ultimate). The details in this profile are based on the entry level version. Some advanced features (4K editing, motion tracking, effects) are only available in either Plus or Ultimate versions.
See current price on Pinnacle and on Amazon
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The basic version comes with 1500+ transitions, titles, templates and 2D/3D effects. The entry-level Standard version appears to be too stripped down to compete against some of the other options included in this list. Best rated pdf editor for mac.
7. Vegas Movie Studio Platinum 15 ($79.95) Windows
This consumer level software has a number of user-friendly features. For example, with Direct upload you can upload your video to YouTube or Facebook directly from the application.
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The instant Color Match feature will make two different scenes appear as though they were shot on the same day, at the same time, and with the same filter.
The basic (Platinum) version comes with 10 audio and 10 video tracks – perfect for 99% of all video edits. It also comes equipped with 350+ video effects and 200+ video transitions.
Where to buy Vegas Movie Studio: Direct from Magix or Amazon
I've been using Vegas Movie Studio for many years and it is super powerful. The basic version is a great upgrade from Quik Desktop. As you need more function, you can easily upgrade within the Sony line. There are three more editions (Suite, Vegas Pro Edit, and Vegas Pro) each with increasing power and features.
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8. Vegas Pro 16 Suite ($399.95) Mac OS X and Windows
Catalyst focuses on fast production of 4K, RAW and HD video. Set-up specifically for action camera footage (including GoPro, Sony, Canon, etc). It is touch and gesture enabled and works on both Mac OS and Windows.
Catalyst Production Suite includes both Prepare and Edit modules. It also comes with a free trial.
This is powerful, flexible software with a price to match.
9. Adobe Premiere Elements 2019 Windows and Mac
This is a stripped-down, basic version of Adobe Premiere Pro (see #10 below). While I'm a huge fan of Photoshop, Bridge, and Illustrator – I don't care for Adobe's video editing tools. A few years ago I reviewed Premiere Pro (I still have CS6 version installed) and found it overwhelmingly complicated.
It's not that they don't make a good product. Their quality is solid. I just feel that with all the intuitive video editing software available, I'm not eager to invest the time to learn the complicated menu structure. I'll be reviewing this in the coming months and my opinion may change.
Adobe is good at organizing media. The best free photo editor for mac 2017 keyboard. Premiere Elements allows you to order, label, find and view your videos and photos.
10. Adobe Premiere Pro ($19.99 / month) Mac OS and Windows
This is the full, pro version of Adobe Premiere Elements.
It can do all you want – and about 100x more. While the depth of features makes it powerful – it's also what makes it a poor choice for most content creators.
Ready to make a Hollywood blockbuster? Many major motion pictures (including Avatar, Hail Caesar!, and The Social Network) were all cut on Adobe Premiere.
Unless you have many days (to learn the basics) or many weeks (to become proficient) this isn't the best choice for the average GoPro user. While this is amazing software, it is best suited for the super complex production – or someone with lots of free time on their hands.
11. Final Cut Pro ($399.99) Mac OS X
This Mac-only software will output some incredible edits.
While I have yet to test this program, I expect it to be similar to Adobe Premiere Pro: both powerful and complicated.
More than 40 major motion pictures have been cut on Final Cut Pro including John Carter, Focus, and X-Men Origins.
Unless video editing is your living, there are probably better options.
12. Animoto ($13-39/month) Online video editor with iOS / Android apps and Lightroom plugin
This is the only web-based video editor in the list. Their combination web-based editor and iOS/Android apps make this an attractive choice.
Because it is web-based, you don't download any software. Just log in and start using.
This subscription-based software as a service (SaaS) program is great for a few reasons. You don't have to worry about the cost of upgrading (time and money) when the new version comes out. And you get to use their computing power to render your videos.
Generally speaking, a SaaS video editor should be much more stable (and fast) than software installed on an older home computer.
Something I discovered inside of their help section is that they limit video uploads to just 400MB. While this sounds like a lot, it doesn't take long to reach 400MB. For example, the Hero4 Black shooting 1080p at 30fps generates 3.75MB of data per second (3.75MBps or 30Mbps). On a side note, here's the difference between MBps and Mbps and here's a megabyte / megabit converter. Also, here's a chart that shows the GoPro video sizes (Mbps) by video resolution and frame rate. That means that you'll reach your Animoto limit in 107 seconds (or 1 minute 47 seconds) of average video. Switch to 4K resolution and you'll reach your limit in just 53 seconds.
13. Davinci Resolve 15 / Studio (Free / $299) Windows, Mac, Linux
If you want to produce Hollywood-quality films (or at least have full creative control) then this Davinci Resolve should be at the top of your list.
This is the only professional video editor that runs on all popular platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux.
And this is the first video editor to combine professional online / offline editing, color correction, audio post production, and visual effects in one tool.
Download the free version or purchase the full version (Davinci Resolve 15 Studio)
“DaVinci Resolve 15 is the standard for high end post production and is used for finishing more Hollywood feature films, episodic television programing and TV commercials than any other software.” ~ blackmagicdesign.com
Fusion Effects include: vector paint, rotoscoping (isolate objects to quickly draw and animate custom shapes), 3D particle systems, powerful keying (Delta, Ultra, Chroma, and Luna), true 3D compositing, and tracking and stabilization.
Curious about which camera to get? Here's how to choose the best 4K video camera.
Your Turn
There you have it. The best options for GoPro editing software. Check out my 3 favorite GoPro editing software options: free, consumer, and premium.
Have I missed one? What's your question about editing GoPro videos? Please share it below!
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