Freeware Pick: Paint.net

Let’s just say you need photo editing software, you don’t have the money for photoshop, nor internet with a speed higher than 4 kb/s. Let’s also say that you strongly dislike GIMP, and want to try something different. Of course, you could always try the updated version of Microsoft Paint, or use Open Canvas. But, there’s that program called ‘Paint.net’ that’s stuck in your head. It’s a mere 1.6MB, and it promises to be a simplified, but powerful version of Photoshop.
Sound a bit dodgy? Well, it requires Microsofts .Net framework (3.0) for it to function. Because it uses the .net engine, it limits the amount of actual code required within the program. It has layers, layer settings… manipulations, custom brush tools, distortions, curves. Stuff you’d expect to be in any decent image

editor. But of course, the advantage that Paint.net has over Photoshop, and perhaps GIMP, is that it features a code lab for making plugins. The fairly large community have already provided a torrent of plugins, providing functions that place it on par with Photoshop CS4 in some areas. The only issue with Paint.net at the moment, is the lack of tablet support currently.  The developers have mentioned having touch screen support soon, which is a bonus.

If this sounds appealing, you can grab Paint.Net HERE