Picnik Alternatives: Top 3 Photo Editors
The End of Picnik and Available Alternatives
It was recently announced that Picnik will cease operations on April 19th. The shutdown of this widely-used online photo editor has provoked disappointment among its user base.
Many are critical of Google’s choice to discontinue a highly-regarded, cost-free web application, citing consolidation as the primary reason.
Finding Replacements for Picnik
Despite the loss of Picnik, users need not be overly concerned. Several viable and equally free alternatives exist to fulfill their photo editing requirements.
These options provide similar functionality and can seamlessly replace Picnik in your workflow.
Available Free Photo Editors
- Pixlr Editor: A robust online editor offering advanced features.
- Fotor: Known for its ease of use and collage-making capabilities.
- iPiccy: Provides a wide range of editing tools and effects.
- BeFunky: Offers creative design tools alongside photo editing.
Each of these platforms delivers a comprehensive set of tools for enhancing and modifying images without any cost.
Users can explore these alternatives to discover the one that best suits their individual needs and preferences.
Google+ Creative Kit
For those who remain aligned with Google’s ecosystem, optimal results may be achieved by utilizing the company’s own tools. The Google+ Creative Kit effectively integrates the functionality previously found in Picnik directly into the Google+ platform.
Functionality and Access
This feature has been available to users for a considerable period, yet its presence remains largely unnoticed. The Creative Kit’s subtle placement contributes to this limited awareness.
Accessing the kit requires first selecting a photo uploaded to Google+. Following this, users must locate and click the relatively inconspicuous Creative Kit button positioned in the upper left corner of the screen.
Feature Comparison
The core functionalities of Picnik are largely replicated within the Google+ Creative Kit. However, the Advanced, Touch-Up, and Frames categories are currently absent.
It is anticipated that Google will incorporate these missing tools in the near future. The company’s intention appears to be to encourage photo editing within the Google+ environment, rather than through an independent website.
Migration and Export
A streamlined process is provided for transferring existing Picnik photos to Google+. This facilitates a simple transition for users seeking to switch platforms.
The ease of export makes migrating from Picnik to the Google+ Creative Kit a straightforward undertaking.
Aviary (Phoenix or Facebook App)
Among the readily accessible, no-cost image editing solutions online, Phoenix stands out as a strong contender. It’s included within the Aviary collection of complimentary media editing programs.
A key benefit of Phoenix is its independence; it isn’t linked to any specific social media platform or website, and user registration isn't necessary. This allows for immediate loading and editing capabilities.
Interface and Features
The user interface bears a resemblance to established image editing software such as Photoshop. Consequently, it might initially appear somewhat complex to new users.
It's worth noting that certain simplified photo filtering functionalities, commonly found in tools like Picnik, are not present within Phoenix.
Aviary Image Editor on Facebook
These filtering features, however, are available through the Aviary app on Facebook, which has recently been released. Officially named the Aviary Image Editor, this application enables users to access photos from their Facebook albums and modify them using a variety of standard tools.
The app also provides creative elements like stickers and a range of effects that can be applied to images.
Integration with Picnik
Furthermore, a connection between Picnik and Facebook is possible. This allows for editing and saving photos using Picnik, with the option to subsequently open them within the Aviary Image Editor for further adjustments if desired.
This integration provides flexibility for users who appreciate the strengths of both platforms.
Pixlr
Selecting the third alternative for discussion presented a challenge. Numerous viable options exist, including Fotoflexer and Phixer. However, these platforms largely replicate the functionalities of the Creative Kit and Aviary Image Editor, while providing a less intuitive interface and diminished social networking integration.
A Robust Online Editor
Therefore, attention is directed towards Pixlr, a long-standing contender in the realm of online image editing. Pixlr shares similarities with Phoenix, functioning as a dedicated photo editor designed for users with more advanced needs.
Nevertheless, when comparing the two, Pixlr demonstrably offers a more comprehensive feature set. Its capabilities extend beyond those of Phoenix, providing a wider range of editing tools.
Pixlr-o-matic: A Simplified Approach
Pixlr also provides a streamlined editor known as Pixlr-o-matic. This editor is accessible online, through Facebook, and as a mobile application for both iOS and Android devices.
It’s important to note that Pixlr-o-matic primarily concentrates on the application of effects and filters, rather than in-depth photo manipulation.
Social Network Connectivity
While not inherently integrated within a specific social network, Pixlr facilitates standard social network connectivity. This allows users to directly open and edit images stored on platforms such as Facebook and Picasa, among others.
Pixlr stands out as a powerful and versatile tool for online photo editing, offering both advanced features and simplified options for a broad range of users.
Final Thoughts
In my assessment, Aviary Image Editor currently stands out as the premier option among those discussed. While Creative Kit offers certain advantages, its connection to Google+ feels somewhat forced and inelegant.
Essentially, Google has incorporated a simplified iteration of the Picnik software directly into its social media platform.
It is anticipated that further development and refinement will be applied to this integrated feature over time.
Your Turn
Which alternative photo editor will you choose following Picnik's discontinuation? Share your preferences and experiences with other readers in the comments section below.
