Graphics Programs

[zelo]

Photoshop (and Adobe for that matter) have shown they are kings of the hill when it comes to graphics programs (recently Adobe bought Macromedia [maker of Flash, Fireworks, etc...]).

What graphics program do you use and why do you use it?

[Dynaweb]

I use Ulead Photoimpact.  Mainly because it is easier to use, costs like 8x less than photoshop and has all the features needed for everyday image editing.

[chrishillman]

I am a big fan of Open Source applications.  I like to use GIMP, Inkscape and Blender the most.  I actually bought Flash because it is worth every penny, but Photoshop and Illustrator (cool as they are) are out of reach for most people (without stealing the software).

Gimp: Photo correction, new raster/bitmap images - Free
Inkscape: Precise Vector images - Free
Blender: 3d images and animations, video composting - Free
Flash: Cartoon Vector images, animations and applications - Pricey...

I wish more people would take the time to learn Gimp and Inkscape rather than hit pirate bay and download the Adobe alternatives illegally.  The open source stuff runs on windows, is stable and offers decent quality (if you are working with 1200 dpi photos for print jobs then just buy Photoshop, 100 - 300 dpi for web is fine on Gimp).  I see no reason to pirate adobe software.

http://www.gimp.org
http://www.inkscape.org
http://www.blender.org
http://www.openoffice.org

[Dynaweb]

I do not buy or pirate Photoshop, that's why I use Ulead.  It is very nice indeed.  I am actually learning GIMP and I use it exclusively on my Linux computer, but it is slow going learning a new graphics proggie.