What's the best beginner's photo editor

[burythehatchet]

I want to begin learning photo editing and I would appreciate guidance regarding Adobe, Macromedia, or other commen photo editor that is suitable for beginners.

Thanks in advance.

[pdx_prog]

1. Photoshop

is the industry standard. You will find more support using Photoshop.

[KitchenWitch]

2. Photoshop has a scaled down version

called Photoshop Elements, not nearly as expensive, but is still fairly powerful, and the menus and toolbars give the same feel as Photoshop.

[burythehatchet]

3. ahh..that's what I need to know.

You like the interface? Did you move up to a more robust application after you learned elements?

[KitchenWitch]

4. I now have the full version of Photoshop CS

I will likely not upgrade to CS2...

[Call Me Wesley]

5. I'd suggest Photoshop, even for beginners.

You'll have a fully featured program to start with. There are tons of how-to-do's out there, and why start with something little. I'm sure you can learn it from scratch, just exploring all the features.

I haven't figured out PS CS2 fully yet myself, and if I need something to do quickly, I still use Macromedia Fireworks. But I'm glad I have Photoshop and the features it brings. Don't be afraid to play around with it.

[ghostsofgiants]

6. I'd just dive right into Photoshop if I were you...

I started out with Fireworks personally, but Photoshop is far better, and I think it's best to learn it just as you're starting.

[Orsino]

7. Beginner? Microsoft Photo Editor.

It has a surprising number of features for a Windows freebie. Its one-button autobalance works pretty well.

I like Paint Shop Pro.

[burythehatchet]

8. Well truthfully I have graduated from MS Photo Editor

:)

[SofaKingLiberal]

9. Photoshop

There are countless resources online to help you develop your skills and learn the more advanced features.

[DS1]

10. I see that 'beginner' is a foreign concept on DU

:shrug:

Photoshop Elements. It'll get you used to using Layers

[burythehatchet]

11. OK so I went with Elements 4.0

with Premiere bundle. Thank you all for your input.