The open source photo editor has become a go-to choice for creators who value freedom, flexibility, and affordability. Unlike subscription-based tools, these editors are community-driven, transparent, and constantly evolving to meet user needs. From GIMP to Krita and Darktable, they offer everything from advanced RAW processing to creative painting features. However, with great power often comes complexity, making them better suited for specific workflows. That's why we'll also look at CapCut desktop, a modern, AI-powered editor that simplifies photo and video editing for beginners and professionals alike.
What is an open-source photo editor
An open source photo editor is a software application that allows users to edit and manipulate images while making its source code publicly available. This means developers worldwide can contribute improvements, create plugins, and expand features without restriction. The biggest advantage lies in cost-effectiveness. Most open source editors are completely free.
Other benefits include flexibility, since users can customize workflows or add extensions, and transparency, which ensures greater trust compared to closed systems. These editors are also cross-platform, supporting Windows, macOS, and Linux. Whether you're a beginner experimenting with image retouching or a professional photographer fine-tuning RAW files, open source photo editor software offers versatile options to fit diverse creative needs.
Best 4 open source photo editors in 2025
GIMP
As one of the most famous names in the world of editing, GIMP remains a top choice for anyone seeking a free, open-source photo editor. Launched decades ago, it has matured into a Photoshop-like powerhouse that supports everything from basic adjustments to advanced manipulations. GIMP's versatility attracts graphic designers, photographers, and hobbyists who want professional-grade tools without the price tag. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to almost everyone. Thanks to its plugin ecosystem, users can expand their capabilities endlessly.
Features
- Layer-based editing with masks and channels.
- Vast library of plugins and custom scripts.
- Strong support for various file formats, including PSD.
- Powerful brush and selection tools for detailed retouching.
- Cross-platform compatibility for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Darktable
For photographers who rely on RAW images, Darktable stands out as one of the best open source photo editors for Windows 10 and other platforms. It focuses on a non-destructive workflow, ensuring your original files remain untouched while edits are applied in layers. The software is built for speed, handling thousands of images in a catalog without compromising performance. Darktable excels in light management, color grading, and tethered shooting, making it perfect for studio or landscape photographers.
Features
- Non-destructive RAW editing workflow.
- Tethered shooting directly from DSLR cameras.
- Advanced color correction and white balance controls.
- Library management for organizing large photo collections.
- Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Krita
Artists and illustrators often call Krita the open-source AI photo editor designed for creativity. While it's primarily built for digital painting, Krita also includes strong photo editing features that make it a versatile tool. With customizable brushes, blending modes, and support for layers, Krita is perfect for both illustrators and casual editors. It works seamlessly on tablets with pen input, giving creators a natural drawing experience. This makes it a favorite for concept art, animation, and creative photo retouching.
Features
- More than 100 brush engines for custom strokes.
- Advanced layer management with blending modes.
- PSD file support for professional workflows.
- Pen and tablet optimization for natural drawing.
- Cross-platform availability for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
RawTherapee
If precision and detail are your top priorities, RawTherapee is one of the best free open source photo editors. It is highly regarded by professionals for its ability to handle high bit-depth images and provide meticulous color correction. Unlike simple editors, RawTherapee dives deep into RAW file adjustments, giving users unparalleled control over tone, noise reduction, and sharpening.
Features
- High-bit-depth processing for maximum image quality.
- Detailed tone and color correction controls.
- Batch editing for handling large volumes of photos.
- Noise reduction and sharpening tools.
- Non-destructive RAW workflow.
How to choose the best free open source photo editor
- Match to your workflow: Choose an editor that aligns with how you work. If you're a photographer handling RAW files, Darktable offers powerful non-destructive editing workflows. For illustrators or digital painters, Krita provides brush engines and painting tools tailored to creative drawing. If your needs are more general—retouching, collage, or social media prep, GIMP is the most versatile all-rounder available.
- Performance vs learning curve: Assess how steep the learning curve is relative to the performance you get. GIMP offers deep features but can overwhelm beginners. RawTherapee and Darktable may require technical know-how for RAW workflows. Photopea runs in your browser and is lighter, albeit with fewer desktop-grade features. Choose a tool that balances ease-of-use with performance based on your comfort and urgency.
- Plugin/community support & update frequency: A healthy plugin ecosystem and active community signal longevity. GIMP and Krita have thousands of plugins and scripts contributed by users. Updates also matter, Darktable and Krita receive frequent enhancements, fixing bugs and adding features. When evaluating an open source photo editor software, check its forums or GitHub pages to see how actively it's maintained.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Make sure the software runs robustly on your device. Most open source editors like GIMP, Krita, and Darktable support Windows, macOS, and Linux. Photopea adds the flexibility of working in any browser, while mobile options are limited. Choose based on whether you work across multiple devices or need remote-access flexibility.
- Export & format support: Your choice should smoothly handle the file types you work with. RawTherapee and Darktable excel with RAW formats, while GIMP supports PSD, JPEG, TIFF, and more. Photopea is especially strong if you need browser-based PSD compatibility. Make sure the editor supports the formats you need and allows you to export high-resolution outputs without quality loss.
While open source photo editors like GIMP and Krita offer powerful, community-driven tools, they can be complex and often lack AI-powered features. For creators who want a faster, more modern, and beginner-friendly option, CapCut PC stands out as a free, all-in-one alternative for both photo and video editing.
CapCut desktop: A powerful free photo editor for Windows & Mac
CapCut desktop video editor offers a free, all-in-one solution for both photo and video editing on Windows and Mac. Beyond basic adjustments like brightness, contrast, and saturation, CapCut offers advanced features such as AI stylize filters, image background remover, and AI-powered retouching. You can also add creative elements like stickers, text, and cinematic effects. It's reliable for personal projects, social media content, or professional design work.
Key features
- AI background remover: CapCut instantly and automatically removes photo backgrounds with one click, letting creators replace subjects with clean compositions for professional-quality results.
- AI stylize: CapCut transforms photos into unique artistic styles using AI stylize, offering filters inspired by sketches, paintings, and creative digital effects.
- Retouch: CapCut's retouch tools smooth skin, remove blemishes, and enhance portraits, giving selfies and professional photos a polished, natural finish.
- Advanced filters & adjustments: Apply free filters, fine-tune brightness, contrast, saturation, and add cinematic effects without needing a paid plan.
- Text, stickers & overlays: Enhance photos with customizable text, creative stickers, frames, and overlays, ideal for social media posts, ads, or branding.
How to edit photos using CapCut desktop video editor
- STEP 1
- Import your photo
Launch CapCut desktop and start a new project. Click the "Import" button or drag and drop your chosen photo into the canvas. The photo will appear in the timeline and preview window, ready for editing.
- STEP 2
- Edit and enhance the image
With the photo on your canvas, explore CapCut's editing panel. Adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation to balance the colors. Add creative filters, stickers, overlays, or text for personalization. You can also use AI tools like the background remover or retouch options for clean, professional-quality results.
- STEP 3
- Save the image
When you're happy with the final result, click the three-line button and select "Export still frames." Then, select the image format (JPEG/PG) and the resolution (up to 8K). Finally, click "Export" to save your photo.
Tips for getting the best results with free photo editors
Working with a free open-source photo editor can deliver amazing results if you know how to maximize its features. Here are some practical tips to improve your editing workflow, with CapCut as a helpful companion tool.
- Learn shortcuts & plugins in open source software: Most open source editors like GIMP or Krita have a steep learning curve, but mastering shortcuts can speed up your workflow. Plugins also extend functionality, allowing you to add filters, retouching tools, or even AI-powered effects for increased efficiency.
- Combine open source + AI editors for hybrid workflows: While Darktable or RawTherapee are excellent for RAW processing, pairing them with an AI-powered tool like CapCut can save time. You can fine-tune details in open source software, then stylize, retouch, or enhance your image with CapCut's AI tools.
- Use CapCut for finishing touches on photos/videos for social media: CapCut excels at creative polish, adding text, overlays, or stickers to make social media–ready. After editing with an open-source tool, drop your file into CapCut to add captions, branding, or filters that are perfect for Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube.
- Keep an eye on export quality: Always double-check your export settings to ensure images retain their sharpness and color balance. Many open-source photo editor software options allow you to export to TIFF or PNG; CapCut ensures high-quality (up to 8) JPEG/PNG exports, ready for both print and digital use.
- Experiment with AI retouching for speed: Instead of manually editing every small detail, AI retouching in CapCut can smooth skin, adjust tones, and reduce noise instantly. This saves time without compromising quality, making it ideal for fast content creation.
Conclusion
Open source photo editors remain a favorite in 2025, offering powerful, free, and community-driven tools for editing, painting, and RAW workflows. Whether it's GIMP, Krita, Darktable, or RawTherapee, these programs give creators professional-quality control without paid subscriptions. However, most photo editor online open source tools can feel complex, require internet access, or lack AI-driven features. For those who want an easier, offline, and more modern experience, CapCut desktop video editor is a standout. With AI-powered tools, seamless photo and video editing, and creative extras like stickers and AI stylize filters, CapCut is a true all-in-one solution.
FAQs
- 1
- What is the best open source photo editor for beginners?
For beginners, GIMP is often recommended as an open-source photo editor because of its tutorials and supportive community. However, its complexity can be intimidating at first. This is where CapCut shines: its intuitive interface, AI background remover, and ready-to-use filters make editing simple and beginner-friendly.
- 2
- Can I edit RAW photos with open source tools?
Yes, open-source photo editors like Darktable and RawTherapee are designed specifically for RAW processing, offering non-destructive workflows and precise color correction. If you want to quickly enhance or prepare RAW photos for social media, CapCut adds value with AI stylize filters and fast retouching.
- 3
- Are open source photo editors safe and trusted?
Absolutely, open source photo editors are generally safe because their code is transparent and reviewed by the community. Just ensure you download from official sources. For extra reliability, CapCut offers a secure desktop editor, while also providing AI-powered features not found in traditional open source editors.