Photoshop

Photoshop is Adobe's long-standing Professional image editing APPlication, widely regarded as a benchmark for raster graphics work. Over time it has expanded well beyond retouching into a full creative environment, and recent releases add Generative AI capabilities that let users produce and modify imagery directly inside their existing workflows.

What it does

At its core, Photoshop handles pixel-based editing: cropping, color correction, layer compositing, masking, selection, and detailed retouching. Newer AI-driven tools extend this by generating new content from text Prompts, filling selected areas Intelligently, and rEMOving unwanted objects while blending results into the surrounding image. The result is a single workspace where manual precision and automated generation coexist.

Key capabilities

• generative fill and expand: add, replace, or extend image content using text descriptions, with results placed on separate layers for easy adjustment.
• Intelligent selection: subject and object detection that speeds up masking and cutouts.
• Layer-based compositing: non-destructive editing with masks, adjustment layers, and smart objects.
• Retouching suite: healing, cloning, content-aware tools, and liquify for reshAPIng.
• typography and design tools: text formatting, shape tools, and integration with broader Creative Cloud apps.
• Brush and painting engine: customizable brushes, blending modes, and pressure-sensitive input.

Who it is for

The software serves photographers who need precise color and detail control, graphic designers building layouts and marketing assets, digital artists and illustrators, and social media creators producing polished visuals. It is also common in product photography, e-commerce, and advertising, where compositing and cleanup are routine. Beginners can start with templates and guided tools, while advanced users rely on scripting, ACTions, and deep layer control.

How to get started

1. Choose a plan through Adobe and download the desktop application, or try the mobile app for quick edits.
2. Create a new document or open an existing image, then explore the tools panel and layers.
3. Experiment with generative fill by selecting an area and describing the desired content.
4. Use tutorials and built-in guidance to learn masking, adjustment layers, and non-destructive workflows.

Pricing and access caveat

Photoshop is commercial software sold primarily through subscription plans, with a trial period that may be offered depending on region and promotion. generative AI features may consume separate credits or be subject to usage limits, and availability can differ by plan, country, and app veRSIon. Pricing, trial terms, and feature access may vary, so check Adobe's official pages for current details before subscribing.