Here are 2 free graphics programs I like and use often:
Embellish 2.02 - I use this program quite often. Probably its biggest strength is the ability to insert and manipulate objects into images. Once you get the hang of this you can make all kinds of interesting effects. It's also great for easily converting images into different formats (useful for making web graphics). Plus it has a host of feature I've never found on other (paid) programs. On the downside the save section is clumsy, the help section is useless, and the special effects aren't very special.
Note: the people that made Embellish (
dadaware) went out of business some time ago so now they just give away the program for free. This means it will be fully functional (no shareware/demo) but support isn't available.
Ultimate FX 1.3 - You can't create images with this program, only apply filters and special effects. But man, what a list of special effects. If you've ever needed to adjust the color of an image, or make it lighter or darker or whatever you'll like this program. You can waste a whole day just playing around with the special effects.
WARNING: this program is Adware (aka Spyware). Whenever you connect to the internet this program will report your surfing activities to its homebase. I don't care - I have ZoneAlarm and I block all programs except IE from using the internet. If you don't have a good firewall you might want to skip this program.
