Paint.NET
Spectacular
Full user review
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"This is where I had my first steps"
Pros
The interface and usage is much more user friendly than Photoshop, GIMP, and especially Corel.
Cons
Certain PS plug-ins can't conform to the PDN code, but there aren't many.
Summary
There may be complaints about limited tools and features in comparison to GIMP....but wait, if you look for special plug-ins and other option on their web site, you will find that loaded with plug-ins, Paint.net is comparable and can compete with the big boys as far as being able to get more than just a decent "chop" or pic alteration. There is a special feature--if you look for it--that can make many Third-party Photoshop Plug ins compatible with PDN. As to give this program a more cutting edge feel to it. This is by far, the easiest program I've used and with Youtube instruction videos, you can master this easy program to a far better degree than the other more complex programs, and best of all.....this is free. Donations are accepted, as the developers take time from their lives to upkeep and further develop more plug ins for us to use.