12 Best Free Mac Photo Editors in 2024

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  • Effortless retouching & autocorrection
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Edited by Ben Jacklin
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Whether you're a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, the right Mac image editor can make a world of difference. In this article, we'll explore top free Mac photo editors available today, each offering its unique set of features and capabilities to help you transform your photos into stunning works of art.

Quick summary

  1. Effortless image editing with AI: Movavi Photo Editor

    Download for Free
    Download for Free

  2. Advanced image editing and retouching: GIMP

  3. Creative and AI-powered photo editing: Luminar Neo

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At Movavi, our primary goal is to provide you with only verified information. Here’s what we do to ensure this:

  • When selecting products to include in our reviews, we research both demand and popularity.

  • All the products in this article have been tested by Movavi Content Team.

  • We compare the key characteristics of every product, including photo scaling and cropping, object and background removal, image restoration, and other significant features.

  • We study user reviews from popular review platforms and make use of this information when writing our product reviews.

  • We collect feedback from our users and analyze their opinions of Movavi software as well as products from other companies.

12 best free photo editors for Mac

1. Movavi Photo Editor

Download for Free
Download for Free

Best for: effortless retouching, AI-based object and background removal

G2 rating: 4.7/5

Movavi Photo Editor is a versatile Mac photo editor that allows you to get the most impressive results with the minimum effort. Thanks to its AI-powered features, you can remove unwanted objects from your photos, change backgrounds, autocorrect colors and light, and apply smart filters. Its basic tools are also easy to use. Suitable for beginners as well as pros, it delivers amazing results in a few clicks. Unlike programs like Photoshop®, Movavi Photo Editor makes editing pictures easy and available for everyone. 

Features:

  • Quick AI background removal/change
  • Unwanted objects removal
  • Old photos restoration
  • Effortless retouching
  • Colors and light autocorrect
  • Smart filters

Pros:

  • Free download allows you to test all the features you might need

  • Professional-like results in a few clicks

  • The easiest to start using since the first minute – no experience required

Cons:

  • The trial version has its limitations

2. darktable

Best for: advanced RAW photo editing and workflow management

Shotkit rating: 4.2/5

darktable is one of the best free photo editors for Mac designed for photographers who work with RAW image files. It offers a wide range of advanced editing tools and a non-destructive editing workflow, allowing users to make precise adjustments without altering the original image data.

Features:

  • RAW editing
  • Preserves the original image while making edits
  • Advanced filters
  • Tethered shooting
  • Library management
  • Predefined styles and effects

Pros:

  • Powerful RAW editing

  • Open source freeware

Cons:

  • Steep learning curve

  • Limited user base

3. GIMP

Best for: advanced image editing and retouching

G2 rating: 4.3/5

GIMP is a powerful open-source photo editing software for Mac that rivals many commercial programs in terms of functionality. It offers a comprehensive suite of advanced image manipulation tools, making it an ideal choice for users who require extensive editing capabilities. With support for layers, masks, filters, and various selection tools, GIMP is capable of handling intricate photo editing tasks. However, it comes with a steeper learning curve, which may be challenging for beginners. Despite this, GIMP's versatility and active community of users and developers make it a popular choice among those who seek a free and feature-rich photo editor.

Features:

  • Advanced photo editing tools
  • Extensive selection of filters and plugins
  • Layer support
  • Customizable interface

Pros:

  • Powerful and free

  • Open-source software with a dedicated community

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve for beginners

  • Interface may feel less intuitive compared to some commercial software

4. Adobe® Lightroom®

Best for: professional photo organization and editing

G2 rating: 4.6/5

Adobe® Lightroom® is a professional-grade photo editor for Mac widely used by photographers and digital artists. It specializes in non-destructive editing of RAW files and provides an extensive range of tools for color correction, exposure adjustments, and detailed retouching. Lightroom's® library management capabilities are equally impressive, offering photographers a robust system for cataloging and organizing their image collections. However, one notable aspect of Lightroom® is its subscription-based pricing model, which can be a drawback for users seeking cost-effective alternatives.

Features:

  • Non-destructive editing
  • Advanced color correction
  • Extensive library management
  • Integration with Adobe® Creative Cloud®

Pros:

  • Excellent for RAW file editing

  • Comprehensive library organization

Cons:

  • Requires a subscription

  • Some advanced features may be overwhelming for casual users

Fotor

Editor's rating

4.2/5
Read More
Read More
Editor's choice
Movavi Photo Editor

Editor's rating

4.8/5
Download for Free
Download for Free
Download for Free
Download for Free
Capture One

Editor's rating

4.3/5
Read More
Read More

5. Fotor

Best for: quick and easy photo enhancement and basic editing

G2 rating: 4.2/5

Fotor is a user-friendly Mac picture editor designed for quick and straightforward photo enhancements. It caters to casual users who want to improve their photos without delving into complex editing processes. Fotor's one-click enhancement feature automatically adjusts exposure, color balance, and sharpness, making it easy to enhance photos with minimal effort. Additionally, Fotor offers basic editing tools for cropping, resizing, and applying filters. While it's a convenient option for quick edits and creative projects, the free version of Fotor includes ads, which may be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Features:

  • One-click enhancements
  • Basic editing tools
  • Collage and design features

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface

  • Good for quick edits and collages

Cons:

  • Limited advanced editing capabilities

6. Google Photos

Best for: cloud-based photo storage, organization, and basic editing

PC Magazine rating: 4/5

Google Photos is a cloud-based Mac photo editor that simplifies the process of preserving and managing digital memories. Its primary advantage lies in its unlimited cloud storage for photos, though compression is applied to images, optimizing storage efficiency. Google Photos features automatic organization and tagging, utilizing advanced algorithms to categorize photos by location, people, and objects. While it offers basic editing tools for enhancing photos, its main strength lies in its accessibility and seamless integration across various devices. However, users should be aware of limitations associated with free storage options.

Features:

  • Unlimited cloud storage for photos (with compression)
  • Automatic organization and tagging
  • Basic editing tools

Pros:

  • Excellent for cloud backup and accessibility

  • Smart search and organization

  • Completely free image editor Mac

Cons:

  • Limited editing features compared to dedicated editors

  • Free storage has limitations

7. Affinity Photo

Best for: professional-level photo editing and design

G2 rating: 4.6/5

Affinity Photo is a professional-level photo editing and design software for Macintosh that competes favorably with industry-standard applications like Adobe® Photoshop®. This macOS image editor offers a wide array of advanced editing tools, including advanced selections, masks, layers, and a variety of filters. Affinity Photo also boasts compatibility with PSD files, making it a suitable alternative for users looking to migrate from Photoshop®. Despite its advanced capabilities, one significant advantage of Affinity Photo is its affordability, as it operates on a one-time purchase model rather than a subscription. However, it may have a steeper learning curve for beginners compared to more basic photo editors.

Features:

  • Advanced photo editing tools
  • Non-destructive editing
  • PSD file compatibility
  • Layer support

Pros:

  • Affordable photo editor for Mac

  • Comparable to Adobe® Photoshop®

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve for beginners

  • May not have all Photoshop's® advanced features

8. Apple Photos

Best for: integrated photo management and simple editing for Mac users

PC Magazine rating: 4/5

Apple Photos is an integrated photo management and basic editing tool that comes bundled with macOS. It is an excellent choice for Mac users seeking simplicity and seamless integration with their Apple devices. Apple Photos provides users with a user-friendly interface for organizing their photo libraries, complete with facial recognition and automatic categorization. It offers basic editing tools for adjustments like exposure, color balance, and cropping, making it suitable for quick enhancements. However, its editing capabilities are limited compared to dedicated photo editing software, which may not meet the needs of professional photographers or advanced users.

Features:

  • Basic editing tools
  • iCloud integration
  • Organization and facial recognition

Pros:

  • Seamless integration with Apple devices

  • User-friendly for basic editing

  • Is probably the best photo editor for Mac for free

Cons:

  • Limited advanced editing capabilities

  • May not meet the needs of professional photographers

Fotor

Editor's rating

4.2/5
Read More
Read More
Editor's choice
Movavi Photo Editor

Editor's rating

4.8/5
Download for Free
Download for Free
Download for Free
Download for Free
Capture One

Editor's rating

4.3/5
Read More
Read More

9. Luminar Neo

Best for: creative and AI-powered photo editing

G2 rating: 4.2/5

Luminar Neo is an innovative Apple photo editor known for its cutting-edge AI-powered editing features and creative templates. It caters to users looking to enhance their photos creatively and experiment with AI-driven enhancements. Luminar Neo's AI tools can automatically detect and enhance various aspects of an image, such as color, exposure, and composition. This makes it a valuable asset for users who want to achieve professional-looking results with minimal effort. Additionally, this MacBook photo editor offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies the editing process. However, it's essential to note that Luminar Neo is a paid software with no subscription options, which may influence the choice of users looking for more cost-effective solutions.

Features:

  • AI enhancements and templates
  • Advanced editing tools
  • Layer support

Pros:

  • Innovative AI features

  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Paid software with no subscription options

  • Some advanced features might be overkill for casual users

10. Photoscape X

Best for: fun and creative photo editing with a range of tools

Capterra rating: 4.6/5

Photoscape X is a versatile and user-friendly photo editor for Mac that provides a wide variety of creative and editing tools. It is designed for users who want a single software solution for various tasks, including photo editing, collage creation, and GIF design. Photoscape X is known for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible to users of all experience levels. Its creative tools allow users to add text, shapes, and stickers to their photos, fostering a fun and creative editing process. However, some users may find that certain features feel dated compared to more specialized photo editors, and the interface could benefit from a more modern design.

Features:

  • Basic and advanced editing tools
  • Collage and GIF creation
  • Batch processing

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface

  • Wide variety of editing and creative tools

Cons:

  • Some features may feel dated

  • Interface could be more modern

11. Exposure X7

Best for: film-inspired photo editing and organizing

G2 rating: 3.5/5

Exposure X7 specializes in film-inspired photo editing, providing users with a vast array of film simulation presets. This photo editor for Mac caters to individuals who seek to recreate the vintage and film-style looks in their photos. Exposure X7 offers an extensive collection of presets, each designed to mimic the characteristics of specific film stocks. These presets can be applied with a single click, transforming digital images into analog-style creations. The software's user-friendly interface simplifies the editing process, making it accessible to users of various skill levels. However, it's worth noting that Exposure X7 does not offer a free OSX version, and some advanced features present in competing software may be absent.

Features:

  • Film simulation presets
  • Non-destructive editing
  • Layer support

Pros:

  • Excellent for achieving film-style looks

  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • May not have all the advanced features of some competitors

  • No free version

12. Capture One

Best for: professional-level RAW photo editing and tethering

PC Magazine rating: 4/5

Capture One is a professional-grade RAW photo editing software for Mac that excels in the realms of RAW file editing, color grading, and tethered shooting support. It is widely embraced by professional photographers and digital artists who demand high-quality results. Capture One offers advanced editing tools and a robust system for cataloging and organizing image collections. Its strengths lie in its exceptional color grading capabilities and support for tethered shooting, making it indispensable for studio photographers. However, Capture One comes with a relatively higher price point, and its extensive features may present a learning curve for beginners. It is best suited for users who require top-tier image quality and professional-grade editing tools.

Features:

  • Advanced RAW editing tools
  • Tethered shooting support
  • Catalog organization

Pros:

  • Exceptional for RAW file editing and color grading

  • Tethering capabilities

Cons:

  • Relatively expensive

  • Learning curve for beginners

Fotor

Editor's rating

4.2/5
Read More
Read More
Editor's choice
Movavi Photo Editor

Editor's rating

4.8/5
Download for Free
Download for Free
Download for Free
Download for Free
Capture One

Editor's rating

4.3/5
Read More
Read More

Choosing the best photo editing software for Mac

Choosing the right photo editing software for Mac is a crucial step in realizing your creative vision and enhancing your digital images. With a myriad of options available, it's essential to make an informed decision that aligns with your skill level, requirements, and budget. To help you navigate this process, here are three key tips to consider when selecting the best photo editing software for Mac:

  • Skill level and needs: Before diving into the world of photo editing software for Mac, take a moment to assess your own proficiency and editing requirements. Consider whether you are a beginner seeking user-friendly tools or a seasoned professional in search of advanced features. Choosing an editor that matches your skill level will streamline your editing process and yield the best results.
  • Compatibility and integration: Ensure that the photo editor you choose is compatible with your Mac's operating system and hardware specifications. Additionally, think about how seamlessly the software integrates with other tools or platforms you rely on, such as Adobe® Photoshop® or cloud storage services. A well-integrated editor can enhance your workflow and expand your editing capabilities.
  • Features and price: Explore the features offered by various Mac photo editors and assess whether they align with your creative aspirations. Take into account essential factors like retouching tools, filters, layer support, and export options. While some high-end editors may come with a premium price tag, others offer excellent value for money. Strike a balance between the software's features and your budget to make a well-informed choice.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be better equipped to select the best free photo editing software for Mac that suits your needs and empowers you to bring your images to life.

Comparing the best Mac image editors

Choosing the right photo editor for your iMac, MacBook Air, or Pro is no easy feat, given the multitude of options available. In this guide, we've condensed a comparison of the 12 best Mac photo editors, outlining their pros and cons.

Software

Pros

Cons

Movavi Photo Editor

Professional-like results in a few clicks

The trial version has its limitations

darktable

Powerful RAW editing

Limited user base

GIMP

Open-source software with a dedicated community

Steeper learning curve for beginners

How to edit photos on a Mac in Movavi Photo Editor

Step 1. Install Movavi Photo Editor

Download Movavi Photo Editor from the official website and install the application by following the on-screen instructions.

Download for Free
Download for Free

Step 2. Import your photo

Launch Movavi’s photo editor for Mac. Click on Add image or drag and drop the photo you want to edit into the program.

Step 3. Make basic adjustments

Use the Adjust tab located on the right side of the interface. Adjust settings like brightness, contrast, saturation, and sharpness to enhance the overall quality of your photo. You can make manual adjustments or use the AI-powered feature for automatic improvements. Choose AI magic from the drop-down list, and the software will suggest enhancements based on your photo's content.

Step 4. Crop and rotate

Click on the Size tab to adjust the composition of your photo. Use the cropping tool to select the desired area. You can also change the aspect ratio if needed. To straighten or rotate your image, use the corresponding options in the same tab.

Step 5. Retouch and enhance

Explore the Retouching and Effects tabs for more advanced editing options. In the Retouching tab, you can use tools like the Skin smoother and Blemish remover to enhance portraits. In the Effects tab, apply creative filters and effects to achieve a specific look for your photo.

Step 6. Add text and objects

For adding text or graphic elements, go to the Caption tab. Click on Add to insert text onto your photo. Customize fonts, colors, size, and position. In the Decorations tab, you can add various shapes, stickers, or images to your photo. Adjust their properties to fit your design.

Step 7. Export your edited photo

Once you're satisfied with your edits, click Save to choose the format and location where you want to save your edited photo. Movavi Photo Editor supports various formats such as JPEG, PNG, TIFF, and more.

Summary

In conclusion, the world of Mac photo editors is rich with choices, each offering a unique blend of advantages and drawbacks. As we've explored these 12 top options, it's clear that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Your selection should be guided by your individual skill level, editing requirements, and budget.

Movavi Photo Editor

Easily enhance images and get professional-grade results in a snap.
Download for FreeAbout the Mac version
Download for FreeAbout the Mac version

*The trial version of Movavi Photo Editor has the following restrictions: you can save up to 10 images with added watermark, screenshots are disabled.

Movavi Photo Editor

Frequently asked questions

What is the best photo editing software for Mac?

  • Movavi Photo Editor – best for quick and user-friendly photo editing, suitable for users seeking simplicity and a range of editing features.
  • Darktable – ideal for advanced RAW photo editing, non-destructive editing, and photographers looking for precise control over their images.
  • GIMP – great for advanced image manipulation and retouching, offering extensive tools and customization options.
  • Adobe® Lightroom® – best for professional photo organization and editing, particularly for RAW files, with powerful color correction and library management.
  • Fotor – suitable for quick and easy photo enhancement and basic editing, catering to casual users.
  • Google Photos – ideal for cloud-based photo storage, organization, and basic editing, with automatic tagging and accessibility across devices.
  • Affinity Photo – comparable to Adobe® Photoshop®, it's excellent for professional-level photo editing and design, offering a wide array of advanced tools.

How do I edit photos on a Mac?

  1. Download and install Movavi Photo Editor from the official website.
  2. Launch the application and open the photo you want to edit by clicking on Add image or dragging and dropping the image into the program.
  3. Use the Adjust tab to make basic edits. Adjust settings like brightness, contrast, saturation, and sharpness to enhance your photo's overall quality.
  4. Explore the Retouching and Effects tabs for more advanced editing options. Remove blemishes, retouch skin, and apply creative filters to achieve the desired look.
  5. Witness the power of the AI-based features, such as colors autocorrect, background change, erasing objects.
  6. Use the Size tool to adjust the composition of your photo. You can also rotate, flip, or straighten your image as needed.
  7. To add text or graphic elements, go to the Caption tab. Customize fonts, colors, and positions to personalize your image.
  8. Once you're satisfied with your edits, click Save to download your edited photo in the desired format and location on your Mac.

Does Apple have a photo editor?

Yes, Apple provides a built-in photo editor in the Photos app on iOS and macOS. This editor allows users to make basic adjustments, apply filters, crop, and enhance photos easily, but lacks AI-based functionality. To access advanced features like AI object/background removal, use Movavi Photo Editor.

What photo editing software comes with a Mac?

The default photo editing software that comes with Mac is Apple Photos. It provides basic editing tools and is the best free photo editing app for Mac. For more advanced editing capabilities, users may consider third-party options like Adobe® Lightroom® or Affinity Photo. Additionally, Movavi Photo Editor is a user-friendly choice for both Mac and Windows users, offering a wide range of editing features.

What is the default photo editor for Mac?

The default Apple photo editing software is Apple Photos. It is integrated into the macOS operating system and offers basic photo editing tools, such as exposure and color adjustments, cropping, and red-eye removal. While suitable for casual users, those requiring more advanced editing capabilities may opt for third-party software. One such program is Movavi Photo Editor which offers AI-based functionality that makes editing photos on Mac easy and professional-like.

What can a photo editor do?

A photo editor can perform various tasks, including adjusting exposure, color balance, and contrast, cropping and resizing images, removing imperfections or blemishes, applying filters and effects, adding text or graphics, and enhancing overall image quality. It's a versatile tool for improving and manipulating photos for various purposes.

How do I edit raw photos?

The best way to edit RAW photos is to use software like Adobe® Lightroom®, Darktable, or Capture One. Import the RAW file, make adjustments to exposure, color, and contrast, and fine-tune details. RAW editing preserves image quality and provides flexibility. Save the edited file in a compatible format like JPEG or TIFF for sharing or printing.

What are the best tools to edit photos for artists?

  • Corel Paintshop – for artists and creatives looking for comprehensive photo editing and graphic design software.
  • Adobe® Lightroom CC® – for photographers and creatives seeking professional-grade photo organization and editing.
  • DXO PhotoLab – for photographers and creatives focused on optimizing and enhancing the quality of their images.
  • Fotor – for creatives seeking a user-friendly and quick solution for basic photo enhancements and design projects.
  • GIMP – for artists and creatives with advanced image manipulation and retouching needs.
  • Canva – for creatives looking for a versatile and easy-to-use online design platform.

What format should I export photos in?

The choice of photo export format depends on your intended use. For high-quality and lossless images, use TIFF or PNG. For web sharing, JPEG is common due to its compression. For images with transparency, use PNG. Consider your needs for quality, file size, and compatibility when selecting the format.

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