Modern life is lived online and through a lens. We are more connected than ever and most moments are highlighted in stories and feeds rather than photo albums and picture frames. But how can you make the most out of these important moments and edit them to sheer perfection? We have compiled a list of the best free photo editing apps that will help you level up your social media game!
Pro Editing Made Easy With These 6 Apps
Smartphone cameras have all but taken over how we see the world. Okay, a little excessive, but really think about it. Go to any concert, wedding or your local brunch spot and see how many phones are whipped out and held at awkward angles to snap that perfect shot of anything and everything. From the mundane to the celebratory. We share it all.
So how do you set your shots above the rest when our feeds are all so overly saturated? Well, take a look at your favorite accounts. The term “influencer” has definitely changed a lot over the years. But the title once ruled by Kardashians and celebrity vloggers is now entirely obtainable for everyday social media users. And what sets them apart is high-quality and consistent content for starters. Step out of the Instagram filter comfort zone and aim higher. Whether you just got the new iPhone and want to get into mobile photography, or level up your Instagram game, let’s break down the top free editing apps you need to edit like a pro.
1. Adobe Lightroom Photo Editor
Easily one of the most well-known editing apps out there, Adobe Lightroom is a popular choice for many mobile photographers. You have probably heard of Photoshop and the Photoshop app, but this program gives even more control of specific editing elements. Whether you are already familiar with image editing or brand new to the game, you can definitely find your way in the condensed mobile edition of the well-known Lightroom program. It is free to download and use, but for complete access to all the tools available, you will need to subscribe to premium. But for most users, the starting version is a great way to start fine-tuning their photos. And if you have ever heard of presets or have seen them advertised on Instagram, they are most likely for the Lightroom app. So you can even edit like your favorite influencer at the tap of a button!
Get it here
Android: Google Play Store
iPhone: App Store
2. VSCO
Now this one is definitely seen on the home screens of anyone who takes their Instagram posts seriously. With its useful set of tools, effects and gorgeous interface it is no wonder it’s favored among many. The presets already available on the free version are beautiful and clean, unlike many of the harsh ones found elsewhere. It is the right choice for those who love a minimalistic style. And if you want more presets, the paid version is the way to go. You will get access to over 200 professional quality presets to make your photos post-worthy in seconds.
Get it here
Android: Google Play Store
iPhone: App Store
3. Afterlight
If you want to edit like a pro, but have no idea what you are doing, Afterlight is the app for you. It is one of the most user-friendly on this list and gives you the same touch editing flow as you see on Instagram, but infinitely more possibilities. The presets are stunning and you can adjust the level of each layer which is a huge plus. So no more flat edits. You can take complete control of your image and even save your favorite workflows to keep your edits similar. Again, the pro version is also an option and comes with a huge assortment of presets to make it even easier to get that crisp, clean consistent feed you’re after.
Get it here
Android: Google Play Store
iPhone: App Store
4. Snapseed
For those who want to really focus on particular themes in their edits, Snapseed is perfect. This app allows you to quickly edit details with ease in a clean and uncluttered interface. It is the perfect choice for those who want to highlight or emphasize a certain color theme without relying on filters or presets. The “Selective” tool and its “Control Point” technology make it stand out from the rest on the list. Simply select up to 8 points on your image, choose your enhancements and the app does the rest without destroying the quality of your image like many filters do. It has it all from simple cropping tools to RAW editing. While it does require some knowledge of editing, there are plenty of in-app tutorials to help you along the way. And it’s made by Google, so you know it’s good.
Get it here
Android: Google Play Store
iPhone: App Store
5. Canva
Now if you are looking to add some graphics or text to your images like your favorite bloggers, Canva is the way to go. On top of general photo editing, Canva is perfect for content that goes beyond the photo. It is extremely easy to use and makes professional content so simple. The free version has over 100 fonts and hundreds of beautiful templates for any type of post you want to add your image to. And the Pro version has even more features to unlock that make it worth the purchase.
Get it here
Android: Google Play Store
iPhone: App Store
6. Facetune
Last on our list is one that many may deny using, but most find useful. This one started the selfie editing game and is still considered the world’s most popular app for editing selfies. So if you are looking to edit more portrait-style images, Facetune is particularly useful. You can whiten teeth, “heal” blemishes, simulate makeup and even change your eye color. It is free to download, but like the rest of these apps has a VIP version with even more tools to try.
Get it here
Android: Google Play Store
iPhone: App Store
Create Better Content With These Top Editing Apps
As you can see, most photo editing apps come with the standard: some presets, filters and general editing tools. But each has its own unique selling point. Depending on the content you want to create, even just adding one of these to your phone will help you take your photos to the next level. So try them out, find the one that fits your needs, or a combination of a few and get creative! And what’s the best way to get these useful apps? With some extra Google Play Store or App Store credit. From selfies to works of art, you will definitely notice an upgrade in your camera roll or social media feed in no time.
