• Free Graphics Software for your Next Project

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    Back in the day, we were only able to make designs and collages through hand-painted lettering, illustration and cut-outs on our vellum boards. We were only limited to what we can create with our hands. Of course, we know that creativity knows no boundaries. Little did we know (fast forward to 20 years later), artists, designers, and hobbyists can push the envelope further with the help of Image and Graphic software. It’s much easier to execute an idea with a pen and paper, pen tablet, Wacom on your desk, iPad or tablet, laptop and on your good old desktop computer.

    There may be setbacks in acquiring a much-coveted graphics software we would love to get our hands on but that doesn’t mean we are only confined to one option. I can’t give any rating for each because I think it would depend on your needs and what you are using it for. You can read reviews all over the internet and I believe you can discern which ones are worth paying for.

    Let’s go back to Graphics Software. What do I use? Which one can I use?

     

    Canva

    graphics software
    Canva is a drag and drop graphic design platform that allows its users to create graphics for social media, posters, presentations and other visual projects. What I love about Canva is its ease of use. It’s also easy for everyone to execute their idea with the help of Canva’s many ranges of templates to choose from. Aside from that, you can also use images available on the platform or upload your own for your project.

    Skill Level: Beginner
    Where can I download Canva? For desktop and laptop users, you don’t need to. Create your account here, www.canva.com. For mobile or tablet users, click here.
    Is it free? Yes. However, there are limits in the customization features (such as making a banner of your desired size, etc.) for the free feature. You can make use more of its features for as low as $9.95 per month.
    Where can I use it? You can use it on your laptop or desktop computer. Canva is also available on android and iPhone/iPad.
    Operating System: Browsers (Chrome, Opera, Firefox), Mobile (Android & iOS)

     

    Gimp

    graphics software
    Gimp stands for GNU Image Manipulation Program. It is a free open-source image editor for image editing, retouching, and free-form drawing. This software can also be used for saving your image in other formats such as png, jpg, and gif.

    Skill Level: Intermediate
    Learning how to get used to Gimp depends on the skill that you have. It also has a learning curve that takes time for individuals who have gotten used to Adobe Photoshop. For those who are still new to image editing, can’t afford to pay for Adobe’s monthly subscription, I would suggest taking your time to learn how to use Gimp.
    Where can I download Gimp? Download it thru their website, gimp.org.
    Is it Free? Yes. Absolutely.
    Where can I use it? You can use it on your laptop or desktop computer.
    Operating System: Windows, Linux, and OSX.

     

    Affinity

    graphics software
    I always have my eye on Affinity. Like Adobe Creative Suite, Affinity has its own Photo Editor, Designer, and Publisher. Unlike the former, each software can be purchased with just a one-time fee of P2,490.

    Skill Level: Intermediate
    Where I can download Affinity? Visit their website and choose a Graphics Software you need.
    Is it free? No. However, you can try the product for 30 days.
    Operating System: Windows and OSX. Also available on iPad.

     

    Fotor

    graphics software

    Fotor is an online Photo Editor and Design platform for those who do not want to download graphic-intensive and heavy software like Adobe Photoshop. I recommend that you try out Fotor if you love tweaking your images and if you are into designing as well.

    Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
    Where can I download Fotor: Fotor is only available for online use. Visit www.fotor.com to find out more.
    Is it free? It has a Basic and Pro package. Check out their pricing page to decide which one will work best for you.
    Where can I use it? You can use it on your laptop or desktop computer.
    Browsers: Chrome, Opera, and Firefox.

     

    Photoscape X

     

    graphics software

    If you want a software exclusively for photo editing and photo manipulation then Photoscape X is a good software to get your hands to. To learn more about Photoscape X, here are some good tutorials (Photoscape X In-depth Tutorial for Beginners and Photoscape Beginner’s Guide – Free Photoshop Alternative) on youtube.

    Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
    Where can I download Photoscape X: Visit x.photoscape.org to download your copy of the software.
    Is it free? Yes, it has a free version. To make use of all its pro features, you can get it for a one-time fee of $39.99 for Windows. It is also available on the MacApp Store free of charge.
    Where can I use it? You can use it on your laptop or desktop computer.
    Operating System: Windows and OSX.

    Disclaimer: This is not a paid post. I’ve been getting questions from friends and clients about graphic editors they can use for free. Perhaps this post can help you find the right software that you need.

    If you have too much on your plate, do not hesitate to call or email us. We have the right tools to help you build your brand.