Photo editing on Mac requires software that balances performance, ease of use, and features. The best photo editing software for Mac can handle everything from basic adjustments to advanced color correction, layer masking, AI-based enhancements, and professional retouching.
In this guide, we will review the leading editors, including Luminar Neo, Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, TouchRetouch, CameraBag Pro, Photomator, RawTherapee, Pixelmator, and PhotosRevive. You will also learn about mobile and desktop workflows, cloud syncing, RAW file support, and batch editing tools to improve your photography and streamline your image management.
Overview of the Best Photo Editing Software for Mac
Choosing the best photo editing software for Mac depends on your workflow, skill level, and the type of photography you do. Some software is beginner-friendly, offering one-click presets, automated object removal, and AI-based sky replacement, while others, like Photoshop, provide professional layers, advanced masking, and color grading tools. Mac users often prioritize apps that integrate well with macOS, support RAW file editing, and offer cross-device functionality with iPhone and iPad. Software such as Luminar Neo and Lightroom provides cloud syncing, making it easy to access images across devices. Open-source options like RawTherapee offer powerful non-destructive editing at no cost. Other apps, including Pixelmator Pro and Photomator, provide creative overlays, filters, and AI-powered enhancements for digital artists.
How I Tested and Compared Photo Editing Software for Mac
To evaluate each editor, I used a 2022 MacBook Air M2 with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, running macOS Ventura. Each software was tested for performance, feature accessibility, speed in batch editing, and RAW file handling. I also looked at cross-device syncing, export options, and how intuitive each interface felt for both beginners and professionals. Real-world scenarios included object removal, background replacement, color correction, layer adjustments, masking, toning, and workflow efficiency. Special attention was paid to AI-powered tools like automated retouching, sky replacement, and image enhancement, alongside traditional editing options.
TL;DR: Top Picks for the Best Photo Editing Software for Mac
For most Mac users in 2026, the top picks are:
- Luminar Neo – Best AI-powered photo editor with intuitive tools and fast workflow.
- Adobe Lightroom – Best for cloud-based photo management and non-destructive editing.
- ON1 Photo RAW Max – Versatile editor with batch processing, AI enhancements, and RAW support.
- Photomator – Best smartphone photography editor with seamless iPhone/iPad integration.
- RawTherapee – Best free option for RAW editing with professional tools.
- TouchRetouch – Quick and simple object removal for basic retouching.
- Adobe Photoshop – Professional layer-based editing, masking, and color grading.
- CameraBag Pro – AI-powered photo and video editing with batch adjustments.
- Pixelmator Pro – Extensive creative tools and template options.
- PhotosRevive – Quick colorizing and restoring of old photos.
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Luminar Neo: Best AI-Powered Photo Editing Software for Mac
Luminar Neo combines beginner-friendly tools with advanced AI-powered adjustments. It offers one-click sky replacement, automated object removal, lighting enhancements, and preset filters. The layer-based system allows both beginners and professionals to perform creative manipulations, color grading, and enhancement overlays. Integration with Lightroom and Photoshop makes it versatile for desktop workflows.
Real World Experience with Luminar Neo
In practice, Luminar Neo runs smoothly on MacBooks, handling large RAW files without lag. The color correction tools are precise, and the AI background removal often works faster than manual methods. Sliders for lighting and exposure adjustments are responsive, allowing precise edits. Beginners benefit from preset filters, while pros appreciate advanced masking and layer adjustments.
Luminar Neo Pricing & Plans
- Perpetual Desktop License: $119
- Cross-device License: $159 (desktop + mobile)
- Max License: $179 (includes extra presets and overlays)
Adobe Lightroom: Best Cloud-Based Photo Editing Software for Mac
Lightroom excels in cloud-based editing, mobile integration, and non-destructive workflows. It supports RAW file editing, AI-powered masking, and preset filters. Photographers benefit from cross-device syncing, allowing edits to continue seamlessly across Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
Lightroom Real World Experience
Using Lightroom, image imports are fast, and adjustments like color toning and exposure correction feel accurate. The software handles batch editing and maintains image quality across multiple exports. Its AI tools help with automated retouching, but some users may find presets less impactful than manual adjustments.
Lightroom Pricing & Plans
- Monthly 1TB Subscription: $17.99
- Annual 1TB Subscription (12-month commitment): $11.99/month
- Yearly 1TB Subscription (upfront): $119.98
ON1 Photo RAW Max: Versatile Editing Software for Mac
ON1 Photo RAW Max is ideal for photographers seeking a balance of AI and manual editing tools. It provides RAW file support, layer-based adjustments, batch editing, and AI-powered retouching. The software is useful for color grading, lighting correction, and creative effects while maintaining an organized catalog.
ON1 Photo RAW Max Real World Experience
ON1 runs efficiently on macOS, even with multiple RAW files and extensive layer edits. Its noise reduction tool preserves image naturalness, and AI keywording saves time in organizing large photo libraries. The interface feels clean while providing professional adjustments.
ON1 Photo RAW Max Pricing & Plans
- Perpetual License: $89.99 (2 devices)
- Annual Subscription: $79.99 (3 devices, 200GB cloud)
- Everything Plus Plan: $129.99 (5 devices, 1TB cloud, training access)
Photomator: Best Smartphone Photography Editor for Mac
Photomator is built for iPhone and iPad users, integrating directly with Apple Photos. It offers RAW support, AI-based object removal, selective adjustments, and film grain presets for natural-looking edits. Its design is clean and lightweight, perfect for mobile photography enthusiasts.
Photomator Real World Experience
Photomator handles mobile and desktop workflows smoothly. Color grading, shadow adjustments, and highlight enhancement feel intuitive. File management is adequate, but could improve for professionals managing large catalogs. It excels for quick edits and creative overlays.
Photomator Pricing & Plans
- Monthly Subscription: $7.99
- Yearly Subscription: $29.99
- Lifetime License: $119.99
- 7-day free trial available
RawTherapee: Best Free Photo Editing Software for Mac
RawTherapee is open-source and offers powerful RAW editing, non-destructive adjustments, and color correction tools. It provides histogram balancing, toning, and advanced exposure adjustments suitable for professional and amateur photographers.
RawTherapee Real World Experience
RawTherapee’s interface has a learning curve, but once familiar, it offers efficient image management and high-quality output. Its ability to handle large RAW files without crashes makes it an excellent free alternative.
TouchRetouch: Quick and Simple Photo Editing for Mac
TouchRetouch specializes in object removal. It is beginner-friendly, allowing fast retouching of small details like blemishes, background distractions, or power lines. It is perfect for quick fixes rather than full-scale color correction.
TouchRetouch Features & Use Cases
The software allows manual retouching for precision and smart object removal with a single click. Users can quickly remove unwanted elements from images without affecting surrounding content. It integrates with macOS and supports RAW files in limited cases.
Adobe Photoshop: Professional Photo Editing Software for Mac
Photoshop remains the industry standard for professional editing. It provides layer-based editing, advanced masking, AI-assisted tools, and creative effects. Photoshop is suitable for professional photography, graphic design, and video graphics, supporting both desktop and cloud workflows.
Photoshop Features & Real World Use
Photoshop allows complete control over color grading, layer adjustments, and composite manipulation. Filters, retouching tools, and batch processing make it ideal for professional image enhancement. It supports RAW file editing, cross-device workflows, and extensive plugin integrations.
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CameraBag Pro: AI-Powered Photo & Video Editing
CameraBag Pro combines photo and video editing with intuitive batch adjustments. It includes 200+ professional filters, RAW support, video upscaling, and AI-based enhancements for lighting, tone, and color correction.
CameraBag Pro Features & Use Cases
CameraBag Pro processes multiple images and videos at once, applying filters, overlays, and adjustments efficiently. Its analog processing system maintains high image quality, making it suitable for both beginners and pros.
Pixelmator Pro: Extensive Tools for Creative Editing
Pixelmator Pro offers over 50 editing tools, AI-powered templates, layer adjustments, and creative effects. It supports RAW files, batch processing, and desktop integration, allowing photographers to produce professional results quickly.
Pixelmator Pro Real World Experience
Pixelmator Pro handles large files and complex edits, but may challenge beginners. Its preset templates and AI enhancements help with color grading and creative overlays, making it a solid choice for digital artists and social media professionals.
Apple Photos: Basic Editing from Your Photo Library
Apple Photos allows simple exposure, contrast, and color adjustments directly from your photo library. It supports iPhone/iPad syncing and provides basic AI-powered corrections. It is ideal for beginners who need quick edits without complex tools.
PhotoBulk: Bulk Photo Editing Made Easy
PhotoBulk is designed for batch editing, enabling users to apply watermarks, format conversions, and resizing across hundreds of images. It is efficient for e-commerce, social media, and professional workflows requiring quick processing.
PhotosRevive: Colorize and Restore Old Photos
PhotosRevive allows restoration of black-and-white or damaged photos. Using advanced colorizer tools, it repairs faded images while maintaining details and clarity. Integration with Apple Photos streamlines the workflow for digital archivists and photographers.
Free vs Paid Photo Editing Software for Mac: Which Should You Choose?
Free options like RawTherapee and Apple Photos are great for beginner photographers or budget-conscious users. Paid software like Luminar Neo, Photoshop, and Lightroom provide professional tools, advanced AI features, cross-device syncing, and batch editing. The choice depends on workflow complexity, catalog size, and desired creative freedom.
How to Pick the Best Photo Editing Software for Mac: My Approach
Choosing the right software involves considering your editing needs, budget, device capabilities, and desired workflow. For beginners, apps with intuitive presets and one-click enhancements like Luminar Neo or TouchRetouch are ideal. For professionals, software with layer masking, RAW support, batch processing, and advanced color grading is better suited. Evaluate cross-device features, cloud storage, and mobile integration if you frequently use an iPhone or iPad.
Photo Editing Tools for macOS: Final Verdict and Recommendations
For most users, Luminar Neo combines ease of use with advanced AI-powered tools, making it the best photo editing software for Mac. Professionals may prefer Photoshop or Lightroom for full control over layers, masking, and color grading. Casual photographers may benefit from Photomator or Apple Photos, and free enthusiasts can rely on RawTherapee for non-destructive RAW editing.
Bonus Tips: Maximize Your Editing Efficiency on Mac
Organize your photo library with cataloging tools. Use batch processing to save time on multiple images. Adjust RAW files first, then apply presets and filters. Keep software updated for performance improvements, and sync projects across desktop and mobile devices to maintain workflow continuity.
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Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best photo editing software for Mac in 2026?
The best photo editing software for Mac depends on your needs. For professional editing, Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom offer advanced layer-based editing, color correction, and RAW file support. For beginner-friendly editing, Luminar Neo, TouchRetouch, and Photomator provide easy-to-use tools, presets, and one-click enhancements. Free alternatives like RawTherapee also deliver professional-quality edits without a subscription.
Can I use the same photo editing software on Mac and iPhone?
Yes, many apps like Luminar Neo, Lightroom, and Photomator offer cross-device workflows. You can start editing a photo on your Mac and continue on your iPhone or iPad, with changes automatically syncing to the cloud. This is perfect for photographers who move between desktop and mobile editing.
Which software is best for beginners on Mac?
For beginners, TouchRetouch, Apple Photos, and Photomator are ideal. They offer intuitive tools, easy object removal, preset filters, and basic color adjustments without overwhelming features. You can start editing quickly and learn advanced techniques later.
What software supports RAW files on Mac?
Many professional and beginner editors support RAW file editing, including Luminar Neo, Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop, CameraBag Pro, Pixelmator Pro, and RawTherapee. RAW files preserve maximum image detail and allow better color correction, toning, and retouching.
Can I remove objects from photos easily on a Mac?
Yes. Software like TouchRetouch and Luminar Neo make object removal simple. You can remove power lines, unwanted people, blemishes, or small distractions with a single click, while keeping the background natural.
Which photo editing software is best for AI-based enhancements?
Luminar Neo and CameraBag Pro are excellent for AI-powered editing. They offer tools like sky replacement, automatic lighting correction, denoising, and quick color grading. These features help you achieve professional results quickly.
Is there free photo editing software for Mac?
Yes, RawTherapee and Apple Photos are free options. RawTherapee provides non-destructive RAW editing and advanced color correction, while Apple Photos offers basic adjustments like cropping, exposure, and contrast. Free apps are suitable for beginners or casual users.
Which software is best for batch editing photos?
CameraBag Pro, PhotoBulk, and ON1 Photo RAW Max are perfect for batch editing. You can apply filters, adjustments, and watermarks to hundreds of photos at once, saving hours of editing time.
Can I edit both photos and videos on a Mac?
Yes. CameraBag Pro supports photo and video editing. You can apply filters, color correction, denoising, and upscaling to both images and video clips, making it convenient for content creators who work with multiple formats.
What is the easiest software for restoring old photos?
PhotosRevive is designed for colorizing and restoring old photos. It can repair faded images, restore color loss, and remove scratches or blemishes quickly. It integrates with Apple Photos, making your old library easier to manage.
How do I choose the right photo editing software for my Mac?
Consider your editing needs, skill level, and budget. Beginners should pick apps with one-click presets and simple retouching, while professionals should choose software with RAW support, layer masking, batch processing, and advanced color grading. Also, check if it supports cross-device syncing if you use an iPhone or an iPad.
Are presets and filters important for photo editing on Mac?
Yes. Presets and filters help quickly improve color, contrast, and tone. Apps like Luminar Neo, Pixelmator Pro, and CameraBag Pro offer hundreds of presets that make editing faster and more creative, especially for social media and content creation.
Can I do professional retouching on a Mac without Photoshop?
Yes. Software like Luminar Neo, Pixelmator Pro, and Lightroom allows professional retouching, layer adjustments, skin enhancements, and color correction without requiring Photoshop. They are user-friendly but still provide high-quality results.
Which Mac photo editor is best for cloud storage and organization?
Adobe Lightroom and Luminar Neo provide cloud syncing, catalog management, and cross-device access. You can organize images, apply filters, and store originals safely in the cloud while working from your desktop or mobile device.
What is the difference between free and paid photo editing software for Mac?
Free software like Apple Photos and RawTherapee covers basic to intermediate editing. Paid apps like Photoshop, Luminar Neo, and ON1 Photo RAW Max offer advanced tools, batch processing, RAW file support, professional retouching, and preset libraries. Paid apps are best for professional workflows or frequent photographers.
Conclusion: Choose the Best Photo Editing Software for Mac in 2026
Choosing the best photo editing software for Mac depends on skill level, workflow, and desired features. Luminar Neo is ideal for most users due to AI-based tools, an intuitive interface, and cross-device support. Photoshop and Lightroom cater to professionals needing layer-based editing and non-destructive workflows. Beginners can start with TouchRetouch, Photomator, or Apple Photos. Free alternatives like RawTherapee offer high-quality RAW editing without a subscription. By understanding your needs, you can select software that enhances color correction, image management, retouching, and creative adjustments while supporting desktop and mobile workflows in 2026.
Disclaimer:
“The content in this article is for educational purposes only. It provides information about photo editing software for Mac and tools. Readers should evaluate software features, pricing, and compatibility themselves. This article does not provide personal or professional advice.”