post processing

[hirejn]

Elements is OK for beginners. Photoshop CS6 is the best. Subjective, yes, but it's the professional standard and I know no professionals who use anything else. If you're not a professional, then you won't get much out of Photoshop CS6. You can learn the basics in Elements and then when you're ready graduate to Lightroom and CS. However, I wouldn't recommend buying online without reading my blog. I have a blog post on this coming up on this specific topic March 18, so please check out my website that afternoon. I can't go into all the details here but there are certain things you have to look out for online, even if you know the software is legitimate. It's worth waiting a few days to read it.

Also, I wouldn't recommend using another program. If you learn the basics in Elements, you can later apply that knowledge to CS6. If you learn some other program, I don't know how much will apply. Plus, most professionals know Photoshop so they can help you if you have questions. Few know the other programs. You essentially have to use what the industry is using if you want to get better.

 

[CA_]

I don't need overkill, just something to get started with.

Several capable free options exist.

Yeah, as long as you don't mind the absolute most HORRIFIC UI on gods green earth.

Unless something has changed, recently... the free alternatives are such a train wreck that I'd rather cut off my left arm and sell it to science to be able to afford photoshop than use the free alternatives.

^^^^^^ true.

Do not waste your time learning these total garbage open source image editors. Learn the industry standard, Photoshop. Even if you start with elements. Learning any other work flow environment other than Adobe and you are basically pissing in the wind.