Easy but Good Graphics Software?

looking for simple to use graphic software

[gwnhwyvar]

Hey everyone...I'm looking for simple to use graphic software that produces good quality graphics for the web - I have Photoshop but my version is no longer compatible with Vista, which is a real kick in the tush considering the price paid for it. It was great and I have one XP PC I might still run it on, but right now I'm just in need of some simple graphics software compatible with Vista.

I'm not good at graphics so need something intuitive. I've used Paint Shop Pro products up to version 9 and they're alright, but whenever I add text to a graphic it seems to make the graphic "fuzzy" (or maybe it's me?) so I'm looking for a better alternative but there's so much stuff out there its' confusing. Plus I prefer first hand account from users. Every sales pitch sounds the same after a while, you know? Tx!

[mack]

My recomendation is for "The Gimp" best of all its free. In my opinion is as Good as Paintshop pro.

At first it seams like quite a learning curve, ut if you read through the documentation you will be using it to do simple image edits in an afternoon.

Mack.

[gwnhwyvar]

Thanks! I'll check into that. I do use IrfanView for quick edits and such but I want a full-blown program for creating and stuff.

really appreciate the suggestion.

[CSS_Kidd]

Might I suggest Inkscape to go along with Gimp? It handles vector art well. You will get much less "fuzzy" or pixilated effect on things like text and curves. It is free and there is a learning curve about the same as Gimp.

However when it comes to site graphics you need to establish what graphics are being used for what before you start. This is why there are different programs that handle different types of images.

For example: Photoshop will produce a better JPEG of images of people scenery and such. And Illustrator will give you a crisper PNG when it comes to text or structure images for your site (rounded edges)

Gimp and Inkscape are the free open source equivalent of Photoshop and Illustrator. Even though there is a learning curve to them, just spend some time doing some tutorials you can find online, and you should be fine.

[gwnhwyvar]

Thanks CSS_Kid, will definitely check that out, too. While I don't mind paying for something good, I can't deny it's awfully nice when it's free! And some of the best software I've ever used is open source. I like programmers. :D Wish I had it in me to be one!

I never heard of Inkscape before, but it sounds awesome, too.