9 Best Photo Editing Apps for Mac in 2024 (Free & Paid)

In 2024, photo editing on Mac has reached new heights with an array of powerful applications tailored to meet the needs of both amateur and professional photographers. Whether you're looking to enhance your photos, create stunning visual art, or simply make quick adjustments, there's an app for every need. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 9 photo editing apps for Mac, both free and paid, that are making waves this year.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Overview: Adobe Photoshop remains the gold standard in photo editing. Known for its extensive features and capabilities, Photoshop is a go-to choice for professionals.

Key Features:

• Advanced Retouching: Tools for healing, cloning, and smoothing.
• Layer Management: Complex editing with layers and masks.
• AI-Powered Tools: Adobe Sensei offers AI-driven features like automatic subject selection and content-aware fill.

Pros:

• Comprehensive toolkit.
• Frequent updates and new features.
• Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud.

Cons:

• Subscription-based pricing may be high for some users.
• Can be overwhelming for beginners.

Price: Starts at $20.99/month with a Creative Cloud subscription.

2. Affinity Photo

Overview: Affinity Photo is a robust alternative to Photoshop, offering professional-grade tools at a one-time purchase price.

Key Features:

• Live Filters: Apply and edit filters in real time.
• PSD Support: Import and edit Photoshop files.
• High Dynamic Range (HDR): Advanced HDR editing capabilities.

Pros:

• One-time purchase with no subscription fees.
• Highly customizable workspace.
• Excellent performance for large files.

Cons:

• Fewer third-party plugins compared to Photoshop.
• Limited cloud integration.

Price: $54.99 for a one-time purchase.

3. GIMP

Overview: GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open-source photo editor that offers many features similar to Photoshop.

Key Features:

• Customizable Interface: Tailor the workspace to fit your needs.
• Extensive Plugin Support: Access to a wide range of plugins.
• Advanced Image Manipulation: Tools for retouching, color correction, and more.

Pros:

• Completely free with no hidden costs.
• Strong community support and resources.
• Regular updates and improvements.

Cons:

• Interface can be less intuitive than paid alternatives.
• Limited support for some advanced features found in premium apps.

Price: Free.

4. Luminar Neo

Overview: Luminar Neo combines AI technology with traditional photo editing tools to simplify complex edits.

Key Features:

• AI Enhancements: Automatic adjustments and scene recognition.
• Portrait Tools: Advanced portrait retouching options.
• Sky Replacement: Easy and realistic sky editing.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface.
• Innovative AI features for faster editing.
• One-time purchase option.

Cons:

• Some advanced features require additional purchases.
• Can be slow with very large image files.

Price: $79 for a one-time purchase.

5. DxO PhotoLab

Overview: DxO PhotoLab is known for its exceptional automatic corrections and powerful editing tools.

Key Features:

• DxO PureRAW: Advanced noise reduction and sharpening.
• Local Adjustments: Fine-tune specific areas of your photos.
• U Point Technology: Intuitive selective adjustments.

Pros:

• Excellent noise reduction and lens correction.
• AI-driven enhancements for ease of use.
• High-quality raw processing.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve for beginners.
• Higher price point compared to some competitors.

Price: $99 for the standard edition.

6. Capture One

Overview: Capture One is a professional-grade photo editor designed for high-quality raw processing and color grading.

Key Features:

• Color Grading Tools: Advanced color correction and grading.
• Layer-Based Editing: Work with layers for precise adjustments.
• Tethering Support: Real-time editing during shooting sessions.

Pros:

• Superior color editing capabilities.
• High-quality raw processing.
• Excellent support for tethered shooting.

Cons:

• Expensive subscription model.
• Complex interface may be overwhelming for new users.

Price: $24/month or $299 for a one-time purchase.

7. Photoscape X

Overview: Photoscape X offers a mix of editing, organizing, and creative features in an easy-to-use package.

Key Features:

• Editing Tools: Basic and advanced photo editing options.
• Collage Maker: Create photo collages with customizable templates.
• Batch Processing: Apply edits to multiple photos at once.

Pros:

• Free version available with a lot of features.
• Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
• Affordable Pro version with additional features.

Cons:

• Limited advanced editing tools compared to other apps.
• Pro version may still lack some high-end features.

Price: Free with an optional Pro upgrade for $39.99.

8. Polarr

Overview: Polarr is known for its powerful editing tools and ease of use, making it a popular choice for both amateurs and pros.

Key Features:

• Filters and Effects: Apply stylish filters and effects.
• Advanced Tools: Color correction, sharpness adjustments, and more.
• Custom Presets: Save and apply custom editing presets.

Pros:

• Free version offers a lot of functionality.
• Easy-to-use with a modern interface.
• Mobile and desktop versions available.

Cons:

• Some advanced features are locked behind a paywall.
• Limited support for large batch processing.

Price: Free with a Pro version available for $29.99/year.

9. ON1 Photo RAW

Overview: ON1 Photo RAW provides a comprehensive suite of editing tools with a focus on raw processing and creative effects.

Key Features:

• Raw Processing: High-quality raw image processing.
• Creative Effects: Apply and customize creative effects and filters.
• Integration with Other Tools: Works well with Lightroom and Photoshop.

Pros:

• All-in-one solution with raw processing and editing tools.
• Regular updates with new features and improvements.
• One-time purchase option.

Cons:

• Interface can be less intuitive for new users.
• Performance issues with large image files.

Price: $99.99 for a one-time purchase.

In 2024, the range of photo editing apps for Mac is diverse, catering to different needs and skill levels. From the powerhouse Adobe Photoshop to the innovative Luminar Neo, there’s an app for every type of photographer. Whether you prefer the flexibility of free tools like GIMP or the advanced capabilities of paid software like Capture One, these top 9 photo editing apps offer powerful features to enhance your images and streamline your editing workflow. Choose the one that best fits your needs and start transforming your photos today!

FAQs

1. What are the main differences between Adobe Photoshop and Affinity Photo?

Answer: Adobe Photoshop and Affinity Photo are both powerful photo editing tools, but they have distinct differences. Adobe Photoshop is known for its extensive range of features, including advanced retouching, layer management, and AI-powered tools. It operates on a subscription model, which provides continuous updates and cloud integration.

Affinity Photo, on the other hand, offers a one-time purchase option with no subscription fees. It provides many of the same professional-grade tools as Photoshop, such as live filters and PSD support, but may have fewer third-party plugins and less cloud integration. Affinity Photo is praised for its affordability and customization options, making it a popular choice for users looking for a one-time investment.

2. Is GIMP a good alternative to paid photo editing software like Photoshop?

Answer: GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a robust free alternative to paid photo editing software like Photoshop. It offers a wide range of features, including advanced image manipulation, customizable interfaces, and extensive plugin support. GIMP is particularly well-regarded for its cost-effectiveness and strong community support.

However, GIMP's interface can be less intuitive than Photoshop's, and it may lack some of the advanced features found in premium apps. For users who need a professional-grade editor without the cost, GIMP is a viable option, though it may require a steeper learning curve.

3. What are the advantages of using Luminar Neo over other photo editing apps?

Answer: Luminar Neo stands out due to its integration of AI technology with traditional photo editing tools. Its key advantages include:

• AI Enhancements: Automatic adjustments and scene recognition simplify complex edits.
• Portrait Tools: Advanced features for portrait retouching make it easier to enhance faces and skin tones.
• Sky Replacement: A user-friendly tool for realistic sky editing.

These features make Luminar Neo an excellent choice for users looking for innovative, time-saving tools that streamline the editing process. Its modern interface and one-time purchase option also appeal to those seeking both advanced functionality and affordability.

4. How does DxO PhotoLab compare to other raw processing software?

Answer: DxO PhotoLab is known for its high-quality raw processing and automatic corrections. Key features include:

• DxO PureRAW: Exceptional noise reduction and sharpening.
• Local Adjustments: Precise editing of specific areas in a photo.
• U Point Technology: Intuitive selective adjustments.

Compared to other raw processing software, DxO PhotoLab excels in delivering high-quality corrections and enhancements. It is particularly favored for its advanced noise reduction and lens correction capabilities. However, it comes at a higher price point and may have a steeper learning curve for beginners.

5. Can Capture One be used for tethered shooting?

Answer: Yes, Capture One is well-suited for tethered shooting, making it a popular choice among professional photographers. Tethered shooting allows photographers to connect their camera directly to their computer, enabling real-time image review and adjustments. Capture One offers robust support for this feature, providing seamless integration with various camera models and enhancing workflow efficiency.

Additionally, Capture One's powerful color grading tools and high-quality raw processing further contribute to its appeal for professional use.

6. What makes Photoscape X a good option for casual users?

Answer: Photoscape X is a user-friendly photo editing app that caters to casual users with its combination of editing, organizing, and creative features. Key benefits include:

• Editing Tools: Offers both basic and advanced photo editing options.
• Collage Maker: Easily create photo collages using customizable templates.
• Batch Processing: Apply edits to multiple photos at once, saving time.

The intuitive interface and free version of Photoscape X make it an accessible choice for casual users. The optional Pro upgrade provides additional features for those who want more advanced capabilities without a significant investment.

7. How does Polarr's free version compare to its Pro version?

Answer: Polarr's free version provides a solid range of features, including filters, effects, and basic editing tools. It's well-suited for casual users who need essential editing capabilities. The free version also supports custom presets, making it easier to apply consistent edits across multiple photos.

The Pro version of Polarr, available for $29.99/year, unlocks additional advanced features such as more filters, advanced editing tools, and enhanced customization options. It offers a more comprehensive editing experience for users who require more functionality and versatility.

8. What are the main features of ON1 Photo RAW that set it apart from other editors?

Answer: ON1 Photo RAW is notable for its all-in-one approach to photo editing, combining raw processing with creative effects. Key features include:

• Raw Processing: High-quality raw image processing capabilities.
• Creative Effects: A variety of customizable effects and filters.
• Integration with Other Tools: Seamlessly works with Lightroom and Photoshop.

These features make ON1 Photo RAW a versatile option for users who want a comprehensive editing solution without needing to switch between multiple apps. The one-time purchase model is also appealing for those who prefer not to subscribe to a service.

9. Are there any free photo editing apps with advanced features similar to paid software?

Answer: Yes, several free photo editing apps offer advanced features similar to those found in paid software. Notable examples include:

• GIMP: Provides a wide range of professional-grade tools and customization options.
• Photoscape X: Includes basic and advanced editing features, along with collage making and batch processing.

While these free apps may not offer all the high-end features of premium software, they can still deliver substantial functionality for users who need advanced editing tools without the cost.

10. What should I consider when choosing a photo editing app for Mac?

Answer: When choosing a photo editing app for Mac, consider the following factors:

• Features: Determine the specific tools and capabilities you need, such as advanced retouching, raw processing, or creative effects.
• User Interface: Choose an app with an interface that matches your comfort level, whether it’s simple for casual users or complex for professionals.
• Price: Compare the cost of one-time purchases versus subscription models, and evaluate whether the app fits your budget.
• Performance: Ensure the app runs smoothly on your Mac, especially if you work with large image files.
• Compatibility: Check if the app integrates with other software you use, such as Lightroom or Photoshop.

Selecting an app that aligns with your editing needs and budget will help you make the most of your photo editing experience.

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