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Lunch Bytes: 03


Since we’re on the topic of Creative Commons this week, the Web 2.0 Test Kitchen will be showing off some free apps that can help you work with content. So, let’s say that you've just downloaded an image(s) from Flickr and you’re ready to remix the content but don’t have a raster graphics editor. You don’t have to shell out $150 for Adobe Photoshop Lightbox or subscribe to their monthly plan whilst contributing to their $4.795B revenue steam. Go to Pixlr, as they offer a free web-based application that meets most of the demands of its pricey equivalent.

You can start using Pixlr as soon as you land on the site. This is one of those rare times that I’ve tested an application, where the proprietor does not require you to fill out any forms to get started or to receive your file. There are two accessible releases on the site. The Express version allows you to do simple alterations, resizing, overlays, and add borders while the Editor flavor of the app allows you to complete more technical actions like, add layers, replace colors, and transform objects.


The user interface is easy enough to figure out and will definitely help build a stronger skillset. If you’re determined to move to more advanced image editing applications or just thinking about it, this is a great way to start out. The tool icons, menu items, and operations performed on this app will translate over to similar retail software. Lastly, files can be saved in the most common graphic image formats (.jpg, .png, .gif, etc.). So, go to Pixlr today and get started on your awesome CC based projects.

Pixlr User Interface



Comments

  1. hellosummermediaJuly 16, 2017 at 8:18 AM

    Thank you for sharing this tool for us! I will try this later. I am planning to learn photoshop or other adobe tools. However, it this is the most user friendly tool, why not change to it. Adobe suite is so expensive :(

    ReplyDelete

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