How to Edit Photos on Mac with Free Tools. Editing photos on your Mac doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With free tools available on macOS, you can enhance your photos, add effects, and create visually appealing images without spending a dime. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to edit photos using these tools.

Use the Built-in Photos App

The Photos app comes pre-installed on your Mac and offers a range of editing features.

1. Open the Photo:
   • Launch the Photos app.
   • Select the photo you want to edit.
2. Click “Edit”:
   • In the top-right corner, click the Edit button.
   • The photo opens in editing mode.
3. Adjust the Photo:
   • Use the Adjust tab to tweak brightness, contrast, and color.
   • Click Auto for quick enhancements.
4. Apply Filters:
   • Switch to the Filters tab to add artistic effects like “Vivid” or “Mono.”
5. Crop and Rotate:
   • Use the Crop tab to resize or rotate the photo.
   • Straighten the image with the slider tool.
6. Save Changes:
   • Click Done to save your edits.

Use Preview for Quick Edits

The Preview app is another built-in tool that can handle basic photo editing.

1. Open the Photo in Preview:
   • Right-click the photo, select Open With, and choose Preview.
2. Adjust Colors:
   • Go to Tools > Adjust Color to tweak exposure, contrast, and saturation.
3. Crop the Image:
   • Use the selection tool to highlight the area you want.
   • Go to Tools > Crop to finalize the cut.
4. Annotate the Photo:
   • Use Tools > Annotate to add text, shapes, or drawings.
5. Save the Edited Photo:
   • Press Command + S to save your changes.

Try GIMP for Advanced Editing

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, professional-grade photo editor available for Mac.

1. Download GIMP:
   • Visit gimp.org and download the Mac version.
2. Open Your Photo:
   • Launch GIMP and open the photo you want to edit.
3. Edit the Photo:
   • Use tools like Crop, Clone, and Paint for advanced editing.
   • Adjust layers, add text, or use brushes for detailed work.
4. Export the Photo:
   • Save your project by going to File > Export As and choosing a format like JPEG or PNG.

Use Canva for Easy Online Edits

Canva is a free online platform for quick photo editing.

1. Sign Up for Canva:
   • Go to canva.com and create a free account.
2. Upload Your Photo:
   • Drag and drop the photo onto the workspace.
3. Edit the Photo:
   • Apply filters, adjust brightness, and add elements like frames or text.
4. Download the Edited Image:
   • Click Download and choose the desired format.

Explore Preview with Markup

The Markup tool in Preview allows you to add creative touches.

1. Open the Photo in Preview:
   • Right-click and select Open With > Preview.
2. Add Markup:
   • Click the Markup Toolbar (a pencil icon).
   • Add shapes, text, or freehand drawings.
3. Highlight Details:
   • Use the Magnifier tool to zoom in on parts of the image.
4. Save Changes:
   • Go to File > Save to keep your edits.

Tips for Better Photo Editing

• Start with Small Changes: Begin with basic adjustments like brightness and contrast before diving into advanced edits.
• Use Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts in the Photos app or Preview to save time.
• Work on Duplicates: Always make a copy of your photo before editing to preserve the original.
• Experiment with Filters: Filters can quickly transform the mood of your image.

How to Edit Photos on Mac with Free Tools?

Free tools are a great way to enhance your photos without investing in expensive software. They are ideal for beginners and casual users who need basic to intermediate editing features.

With these tools and tips, you can easily edit photos on your Mac and make them look professional. Start experimenting today!

Use PhotoScape X for Versatile Editing

PhotoScape X is another excellent free tool for photo editing on Mac. It offers more features than the default apps while remaining user-friendly.

1. Download PhotoScape X:
   • Install it from the Mac App Store.
2. Enhance Photos:
   • Open your photo and use tools like Auto Levels or Bloom to improve lighting and detail.
3. Add Effects:
   • Apply filters, overlays, or frames for a creative touch.
4. Combine or Split Images:
   • Merge multiple photos into one or divide a single image into parts.
5. Export in High Quality:
   • Save your edited images in formats like PNG or JPEG with high-resolution settings.

Take Advantage of Photos Extensions

macOS supports extensions that enhance the functionality of the built-in Photos app. Many of these extensions are free and add advanced editing features.

1. Install Extensions:
   • Visit the Mac App Store and search for photo editing extensions like Pixelmator or Fotor.
2. Enable Extensions:
   • Go to System Preferences > Extensions and activate the ones you’ve installed.
3. Edit Within Photos:
   • Open the Photos app, select a picture, and click Edit.
   • Choose an extension to access additional editing tools like blemish removal or advanced filters.

By using these tips and tools, you can achieve stunning photo edits without the need for expensive software. Experiment with different methods, and soon, editing photos on your Mac will feel intuitive and enjoyable!