We live in a world now where instant sharing of moments has become second nature to us which makes a powerful photo editing app on your mobile phone a must-have.
I’ve tried a fair number and here’s a summary of my findings.
Here is the list of the top 5 mobile editing apps.
#1. Snapseed
Snapseed — A Real Eye-Opener By Google An integrated editor with a clean user interface, but also does not make a sacrifice advanced functionality.
The arsenal of tools on offer is extensive, with not only basic adjustments available for brightness and contrast but things such as selective editing and healing tools as well.
What I love so much about it is its ‘Stacks’ feature that enables you to save and apply previous edits to a new photo. It’s kinda like Photoshop in your pocket.
Pros:
A full array of editing tools, from selective edits to healing.
User-friendly interface.
A new ‘Stacks’ feature to save and stack edits
No ads, completely free.
Cons:
Not beginner-friendliest (steeper learning curve)
Not many features of social sharing.
#2. Adobe Lightroom
When it comes to mobile photo editing, Adobe Lightroom is another monster. This is great for serious photographers with professional-level editing.
The app contains an extensive selection of presets and tools to turn an ordinary photo into a beautiful piece of art. But that is the magic of Lightroom — it is synced with the desktop version, so you can edit whenever you want.
Also, bonus point for me as it accepts RAW files, which I deal with as a photographer.
Pros:
Editing tools of Turing grade.
Synchronizes with the desktop version
Supports RAW files.
Large selection of presets and filters.
Cons:
Requires Adobe subscription for complete features
For casual users, this can get overwhelming.
Larger app size.
#3. VSCO
VSCO is not simply a photo editor but offers a creative community experience. It’s a combination of just enough editing tools, and a social platform where you can share your work and see what others are creating.
They are beautifully done filters, adding an aesthetic quality to your photos without being overwhelming.
Its simple, minimalist design makes VSCO easy to use and it works well for those who are trying to create a particular look for their photos.
Pros:
Filters that look good & high-quality.
Simple design and uselessness.
Built-in social community.
Frequent updates, new presets each time.
Cons:
Features and most filters are locked behind a subscription.
Fewer pro-level editing tools than other apps.
Photos lose res when being exported.
#4. PicsArt
PicsArt: A Playground for Photo Editing. It is a great option for the artistic type and has plenty of tools, from filters to stickers to text.
The main thing that makes PicsArt stand out is that it also has an easy-to-use collage maker and drawing tools that you can use to customize and add your personal touch to your photos.
PicsArt might be your answer if you want an app that you will use for fun and also has a functional use.
Pros:
A wide variety of creative tools (filters, stickers, text options).
Easy to use collage maker — Draw widgets
Frequent new content updates.
A social platform for sharing and discovering art.
Cons:
The free version will display annoying ads.
Note: Some features need in-app purchases.
Be careful as to have too many options for the interface as it makes it cluttered.
#5. Afterlight
Afterlight: a go-to for fast edits and filters. What it could do It keeps things minimalist, offering only the most basic editing tools without cluttering the user interface.
It applies subtle filters to your photos that add a nice touch, and the adjustment tools are simple but do the job.
Great for those who want to improve their photos without going too deep into complicated editing.
Pros:
User-friendly interface.
Quick adjustments with some essential editing tools
Classic and elegant filters.
Typically, it is in a one-time fee to unlock premium features.
Cons:
No advanced editing features
But smaller filter library than most of the apps
No social sharing features.
Conclusion
Finding the best mobile app for taking photos out of the many options available today is mainly a question of your needs. Snapseed includes some great free tools for more advanced edits, whilst Adobe Lightroom delivers those pro results.
VSCO is a great choice for creatives seeking community, and PicsArt provides fun and flexible editing capabilities. Afterlight is perfect for quick and easy edits.
All of those apps have their advantages and disadvantages, so I recommend you give a few of those a whirl to find the one that fits your style best.
