This page updated January 20, 2022

YouTube is your very best friend when it comes to learning image editing basics.
But not the only one!
There are also hundreds of FaceBook groups, each dedicated to different aspects of each piece of software.
Some of them specialize in different techniques such as Macro - Focus stacking - portraits - landscape etc. If you can think about it there is probably a FB group for the topic.

There is a host of different image editing software programs that you can use.
All of the software has it great points and it's downfalls.
Which program is best for you depends on a multitude of factors that in the end only you can determine.
VPC members use almost all of the software out that is out there.

VPC is not sponsored by or affiliated with any software company.
This quick list is only partial and we list it here for information only.
This is by no means a full and comprehensive list of editing software!

Affinity Photo - Affinity Software homepage - Around $50 Canadian but on sale often.
This is a low cost alternative to Adobe Lightroom and has a few features that Adobe Photoshop does not.
A number of VPC members use this program

Photoshop Elements - Adobe Elements 2021 Homepage

Many people start with Elements and some later change to LR & PS.
Most if not all of the editing concepts and keystrokes for editing are the same in Elements as they are in PS.
Currently (June 2021) you can purchase for around $120 Canadian for a single install - without updates.
This is also available by subscription.
Adobe Elements search on YouTube

http://www.photoshopelementsuser.com/
A magazine that was published from late 2004 through July 2016 Downloads are available on a link on the site.

Lightroom and Photoshop - Adobe Creative Cloud link

Part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite.
This is a subscription service and in June 2021 costs on average $15.00 Canadian a month.
The acknowledged 'big boy in the pond' when it comes to editing software.
There are more YouTube links than can be described.

Some YouTube learning links that some of our members have found useful for Photoshop & Lightroom.

Aaron Nace - PHlearn - Easy to follow and understand lessons in logical steps

Blake Rudis - f.64 Academy - Another experienced PS and ACR user with his own channel.
He has numerous videos on PS 'Blend IF' and other tips and tricks.
Great info and the channel is current and up to date.

PiXimperfect, hosted by Unmesh Dinda, is a free resource for learning Photoshop and Lightroom
Can be a little fast sometimes, but lots of great info updated often.

Photoshop Learning Channel with Jesús Ramimez 
Usually updated weekly with new tips.  Good techniques in getting points across.

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Links to other software and plugins:

GIMP Software - Freeware - Current Version June 2021 - 2.10.24
Open Source software

http://kelbytv.com/ - Kelby has been around for years and has many helpful hints.

NIK / DXO plugin for LR-PS and maybe a few others
This plugin is helpful for many edits.
They excel in the B&W conversions and creative effects.

Topaz Denoise and Sharpen
A plug in for multiple editing programs to reduce noise and sharpen soft images.
Pricey but many feel that this is an invaluable tool to purchase.

The Photographer's Ephemeris helps you plan outdoor photography shoots in natural light.
It's a map-based sun and moon calculator.

Downloadable keyboard shortcuts: