Looking for the best app to edit your photos and give your images a real boost? Whether you want to enhance your travel memories, impress on Instagram, or simply improve your everyday snapshots, there are now a multitude of photo editing apps available, both free and paid, for mobile and desktop. But with so many options, it can be difficult to navigate and choose the app that’s right for you!
That’s precisely why I decided to prepare this ultra-comprehensive guide to the best photo editing apps in 2025. Whether you’re a beginner, a photography enthusiast, or a content creator, you’ll find here a selection of essential apps to easily transform your photos, add a “wow” effect, or correct minor flaws in seconds.
On the menu: AI-powered tools (hello Luminar Neo – don’t forget my code GHL10 for 10% off!), super intuitive mobile apps, professional solutions, and even tips for getting started with photo editing. Ready to discover your future favorite app? Let’s go!
How to choose the best photo editing app?
With the multitude of apps available today, choosing the right one can quickly become a headache. Before rushing headlong into the first app that comes along, there are a few questions to ask yourself. First, ask yourself what your real need is: a quick edit of your vacation photos, giving your Instagram feed a unique style, or even managing RAW files like a pro?
Next, consider the interface: an app that’s easy to learn in two minutes is much more motivating! Also check if it offers AI-powered tools (like Luminar Neo , which is truly impressive for saving time), if it supports local adjustments, creative filters, and high-quality export. Finally, ask yourself if you prefer editing on mobile or computer: some tools are available everywhere, while others are really designed for specific uses.
In short, there isn’t ONE perfect app for everyone… but there’s bound to be one that will be perfect for YOU!
Top 7 Best Photo Editing Apps
Now for the selection! I’ve tested, compared, and chosen the best photo editing apps currently available. Whether you’re on mobile, PC, or like to edit anywhere, there’s something for every style and need. Here’s the very best to enhance your images in 2025.
Luminar Neo: AI-powered editing (PC/Mac/iOS/Android)
If there’s one app that has revolutionized photo editing in recent years, it’s Luminar Neo . Designed for both amateurs and professionals, it leverages the power of artificial intelligence to automate a multitude of tasks: light correction, unwanted elements removal, detail enhancement… With a single click, your photo takes on a whole new dimension, while still allowing you to fine-tune every setting if you like to perfect it.
Version 2025 brings real innovations: intelligent auto-adjustment, optimized cache management for greater speed, DNG export for purists, and even a more natural-looking, realistic haze than ever before. The result: professional-looking photos, hassle-free, in seconds.
🆓 To try it out: 7-day free trial here
🔥 Special offer: Enjoy 10% off with code GHL10 on Luminar Neo
Download Luminar NEO Mobile here: Mobile link
Adobe Lightroom: the professional’s standard
Lightroom needs no introduction; it’s the preferred tool of many professional photographers. Available on both desktop and mobile, it impresses with its power: RAW file management, ultra-precise adjustments, photo organization, and cloud synchronization. It’s truly the app you use to control everything from A to Z.
The only downside is that you need a subscription, and the interface can be intimidating at first. But once you get the hang of it, it’s a powerful tool for clean and quick edits.
Snapseed: Google’s free gem (iOS/Android)
If you’re looking for a completely free and incredibly effective app, Snapseed is a must-have. Developed by Google, it offers an intuitive interface, powerful settings, professional filters, and the ability to work locally on specific areas of the image. No need to be an expert to get great results: everything is done with just a few taps.
Ideal for those who want to go beyond basic Instagram filters, without spending a penny.
VSCO: for a stylish look in one click
Want an ultra-stylish Instagram feed? VSCO is THE go-to app for iconic filters that give your photos a texture and color worthy of the finest magazines. The app is incredibly easy to use and perfect for adding an artistic touch to your photos.
The free version is sufficient to get started, but the premium options allow you to really have fun with more advanced settings.
Picsart: the all-in-one creative tool
With Picsart, you can do it all: retouch, edit, add effects, text, create collages, and even take advantage of the latest AI features. It’s the ideal toolkit for those who create a lot of content for social media. The app is available on mobile and web, so there’s no excuse not to have fun!
Darkroom (iOS): power and simplicity
Exclusively for Apple users, Darkroom is fast, powerful, and seamlessly integrated into the iOS ecosystem. It handles RAW files, offers fine-tuning capabilities, batch processing, and a sleek interface. A real gem for those who want to take their iPhone or iPad to the next level.
Aperty: the alternative to discover
Aperty deserves its place in this ranking: it targets those who want to save time with a fast and efficient workflow. Ideal for editing and organizing photos without any hassle, it offers practical features to enhance images in just a few clicks, all while remaining user-friendly.
Quick comparison: which app for which use?
As we know, every photographer (or creator) has their own specific needs. To help you find your way around easily, here’s a quick comparison based on different profiles:
| Profile | Ideal application | For what ? |
| Beginner | Snapseed, VSCO | Ultra simple, free, fast results |
| Content creator / Social media | Picsart, VSCO, Luminar Neo Mobile | Stylish effects, AI, editing, direct publishing |
| Amateur photographer | Luminar Neo, Darkroom | Powerful tools, ease of use, RAW editing |
| Professional photographer | Adobe Lightroom, Luminar Neo | Advanced management, precision, complete workflow |
| Quick and efficient | Aperty, Luminar Neo Auto-Adjust | Save time with AI, one-click editing |
| Mobile addict | Snapseed, VSCO, Luminar Neo Mobile | Do everything on your smartphone without sacrificing quality |
| Fan of creative retouching | Picsart, Luminar Neo, VSCO | Numerous filters, AI effects, limitless creativity |
Tip: You can absolutely mix several applications depending on your preferences. For example, start by correcting the lighting with Luminar Neo , then add a stylish filter in VSCO or play around with Picsart’s creative tools. The important thing is to experiment to find your own unique style!
Tips for getting started in photo editing
You don’t need to be a pro to successfully retouch your first photos; all it takes is a little curiosity! Here are a few tips to get you started on the right foot:
- Try out several apps : Take advantage of free trials (especially the 7 days offered on Luminar Neo ), explore the mobile versions, discover what you like best.
- AI, a real time-saver : Don’t hesitate to use AI-powered tools, like Luminar Neo ‘s Auto Adjust. With the promo code GHL10 , you save 10% on your purchase and save hours of work on each photo.
- Stay natural!It’s tempting to multiply the effects, but the best approach is often to correct the light and colors while maintaining the natural style of the photo.
- Watch tutorials : YouTube, blogs, Instagram… There are plenty of tutorials to help you progress quickly, and sometimes you discover unexpected tips.
- Always save the original : You never know, sometimes you might want to go back or try a different style.
Conclusion
There you have it, you now have all the tools you need to find (and master) the best photo editing app for your needs! Don’t hesitate to experiment, mix and match tools, and most importantly, have fun. And if you want to take things to the next level, consider trying Luminar Neo with my promo code GHL10 to get 10% off – you’ll love seeing your photos transformed effortlessly.
Any questions, or an app to recommend? Share your opinion in the comments or tell me on Instagram!
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