Photoshop Alternatives?

[TheBeatnikHimself]

Dear Colleagues,

I would like to express my growing dissatisfaction with Adobe products. However, after two decades of utilizing their software professionally, transitioning to a new platform presents a significant challenge. As both a landscape photographer and educator, I rely heavily on Adobe software for my work and teaching.

I have conducted research on alternative options; however, I have yet to identify a solution that matches the comprehensive capabilities of Photoshop. Thus far, I have explored Affinity, GIMP, and Pixelmator. While I own Luminar Neo and have previously used Capture One, I believe these applications may serve as potential replacements for Lightroom, yet fall short of replicating Photoshop's functionality.

I am reaching out to this community in hopes of identifying a viable alternative to Adobe Photoshop. Your insights and recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

[AxelMatt]

Sorry but, you're here in a forum for Adobe software and you're seriously asking for alternatives.

You've listed some alternatives. Go to the relevant websites and read the specifications. Download trial versions and check if the program meets your needs. Only you can see if a software matches to your requirements.

There are plenty of videos on YouTube, for example, about the individual programs.

[TheBeatnikHimself]

I have been doing just what you are suggesting.

What is wrong with me being here asking this question?

I would suggest to you that if you are going to post on someones thread you might actually want to add some value and insight into the conversation.

[TheBeatnikHimself]

Sorry but, you're here in a forum for Adobe software and you're seriously asking for alternatives?

There are plenty of videos on YouTube, for example, about the individual programs.

By @AxelMatt

To be clear, I am posting here specifically to connect with other dedicated Photoshop users who have enough expertise to engage in a meaningful discussion about the pros and cons of alternative software. It's often the subtle differences—easily overlooked in manuals or video tutorials—that can be significant barriers for newcomers. 

As a “Community Expert,” I find it unacceptable for you to publicly undermine these efforts. I have reported your comments to the moderators, and I expect you to be more supportive of fellow users in your future posts.