Try Pixelmator, in the Mac App Store. It's got plenty of features and has completely replaced Photoshop for me.
With adobe CC you get access to older versions back to CS6 (CC is now in 2 versions, original and 2014 update)
Did you not read my OP that said I didn't want to spend the money on CC and simply want an older version bc I thought it might be cheaper?
If you have a (legit) serial number for an older version of PS (PS CS6 or before), you can download it via Adobe's website. However, Adobe has stopped selling CS6 directly, and it is no longer available for purchase via a legit source (i.e. B&H, Adorama, etc.). Student & Teacher download versions of CS6 are available from B&H, but you DO have to qualify for them (i.e. verifiable school ID/email).
Although Adobe's subscription program is still viewed with some disdain, their Photography CC program is a good deal - Lightroom and Photoshop for $10 a month.
Your alternatives might be to look at something like Lightroom (only), Pixelmator, or wait to see what Photos for OS X brings.
I'd prefer not to sign up for any subscriptions, and would like to keep it under $30 total as it's going to be one time use
I'd prefer not to sign up for any subscriptions, and would like to keep it under $30 total as it's going to be one time use
Then just do the 30 day trial of Photoshop CC.
Did you not read my OP that said I didn't want to spend the money on CC and simply want an older version bc I thought it might be cheaper?
Use Pixelmator instead and save a lot of money.
Looks like the OP only needs PS for a single use project, and it seems the trial version will fit his needs for that endeavor.
did read it, but figured to chip in, since I think the subscription base is pretty brilliant. I'm happy to have legal software and all versions when needed.
Try both and make the determination yourself. There are poeple that really like Pixelmator, others Gimp. I'd cast my lot with Pixelmator, because its actively being supported and developed and uses a UI that people are comfortable. as usual YMMV and so you need to try both and make that determination.Indeed, thanks. If I do end up liking photo manipulation and decide to return is Pixelmator the best alternative or is GIMP better?[
Try both and make the determination yourself. There are poeple that really like Pixelmator, others Gimp. I'd cast my lot with Pixelmator, because its actively being supported and developed and uses a UI that people are comfortable. as usual YMMV and so you need to try both and make that determination.
Ok. How much is Pixelmator, and does it work with PC?
The price is shown on the Mac App store. You can find that out easily yourself and its only for OS X (and iOS).
Ok, so is GIMP my best option then?
Try it and determine that yourself. If your needs are PC based, then you need to see what's available for windows. I can't answer that, I use photoshop and I have little need to find out what's available on windows as a PS replacement.
All I can say is try it and make the determination if Gimp fits your own needs. I really can't answer that for you. What one person may hate, someone else will like.
Yeah. I guess I'm just looking for the overlap of high functionality and user friendliness.
This is something that is not usually associated with Photoshop........