Lightroom’s catalogue system is unique and one of the reasons many photographers use it. Let’s also recognize that no single software package duplicates everything another does. So, be aware: you may find yourself on your own if you run into a problem. While they often have good online tutorials, these alternatives don’t have the breadth and depth of free (and pay) tutorials by photographers that you’ll find with Lightroom or Photoshop.

Many of these alternative applications have developed good sized user bases, but you might not have anyone teaching them in your area or anyone local you can turn to should you encounter an issue or have a question.

What are the best, free alternatives to Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop if you’re using a Mac? If you’re just starting out in photography, or don’t have much money to drop on buying software, are there options that do many, or most, of the things Lightroom and Photoshop (or Capture One or On1) do?ĭon't have a Mac but curious about free photo editors for Windows? Check out my article on photo editors for PCs.

Double clicking to enlarge the photo gives you access to the tools on the top right.