Photo editing is a vital part of our digital lives, and with the increasing reliance on technology, AI features are being integrated into many of the available photo-taking and editing apps. However, some people prefer apps that do not rely on AI, but rather offer traditional editing tools that allow greater control over details.
If you’re like me, and prefer to edit your photos manually, here are the best apps I’ve tried that use little to no AI. Check out why I prefer browser-based photo editing apps over desktop ones.
1. Affinity Photo 2
Affinity Photo is an award-winning photo editing app that can be used on macOS, Windows, and iPad, meaning you can work on the same file on any of these devices. Notable features in Affinity Photo include skin retouching and blemish removal, a huge library of filters and effects, and highly precise pen and brush options. While Affinity supports a number of AI plugins and add-ons, they are, thankfully, not mandatory for editing your photos.
The latest version, Affinity Photo 2, features a much improved user interface design, which is more streamlined and intuitive. Additionally, the latest update allows for non-destructive editing of RAW files, meaning you can edit and develop RAW images (such as those created with a DSLR camera) without losing a copy of the original RAW file, making it an excellent choice for both professional and amateur photographers.
Download: Affinity Photo 2 for Windows و Mac | iPad ($33.99 for Mac and Windows, $8.99 for iPad)
2. Capture One
If you work as part of a team or want to instantly share photos with collaborators, you might want to check out Capture One. This app lets you capture photos directly on your desktop, iPad, or iPhone, without any uploading or downloading, allowing for instant feedback from friends or clients.
Capture One features all the editing tools you’d expect, along with a wide range of preset filters and styles. While Capture One does include AI, you can opt for level integration, leaving the tedious tasks like exposure balance and cropping to the robots, freeing up your time for artistic touches.
You can take advantage of a 30-day free trial, after which there are several paid packages available, from a dedicated mobile app to a full studio subscription for professionals. Check out the signs of over-complacency as a photographer (and what to do about it).
Download: Capture One for Windows و Mac | iOS (Free, subscription available)
3. VSCO
Similar to Instagram, VSCO A photo sharing and editing app that works across Android, iOS, and desktop, allowing photographers to share their images with other users on the platform. While there is a free version, it only offers limited access to the VSCO community and editing features. To take advantage of over 200 pre-made filters and advanced editing tools, you will need to purchase a monthly or annual subscription.
VSCO's standout features include access to photography effects and GIFs not found on other platforms, a unique collection of film-inspired effects and overlays — think grain, scratches, or dust — and the ability to group collections and galleries together, and choose who can see them.
Download: VSCO for Android | iOS (Free, subscription available)
4. Afterlight 2
The brand new Afterlight and Afterlight 2 are software applications designed for Apple devices. However, there is now a version that works on Windows. It is aimed more at beginner photographers and has a simple, easy-to-use interface with large, clear icons. It supports importing raw images and exporting files in the HEIC or High Efficiency Image Compression format.
Along with a full suite of editing features, the app also lets you tweak some settings on your phone’s camera before taking a photo, such as white balance, exposure, shutter speed, and ISO. The app also lets you add layers of graphics and text to create stunning, unique images, then upload them to social media. Check out the best free photo editing apps for iPhone.
Download: Afterlight 2 for Windows | iOS (Free, subscription available)
While AI is certainly a useful and welcome addition to our lives, there are some things that the more artistic among us would rather do ourselves. For the discerning photographer, an editing tool that allows the user complete control is far more useful than an AI-powered tool that produces mediocre images. Here are the most underrated photo editing effects you should be using.
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