best apps for adding filters to smartphone photos

The Best Apps for Adding Filters to Smartphone Photos

When it comes to enhancing smartphone photos, adding filters is a popular way to transform ordinary images into stunning visuals. With a plethora of apps available, finding the perfect one can be overwhelming. Below is a curated list of the best apps for adding filters to your smartphone photos, ensuring your images stand out on social media and in personal collections.

1. VSCO

VSCO, or Visual Supply Company, is well-known among photography enthusiasts. Its robust selection of filters mimics classic film styles, making it ideal for those seeking a vintage aesthetic.

• Features:

  • Over 200 presets that can be fine-tuned.
  • Advanced editing tools such as split toning and HSL sliders to adjust hues.
  • A social platform where users can share their work.

• User Experience: The interface is minimalistic but powerful, allowing for quick edits without overwhelming menus.

2. Snapseed

Snapseed, developed by Google, offers an extensive range of editing tools and filters, suitable for both casual users and professionals. Its precision tools allow detailed adjustments.

• Features:

  • 29 tools and filters, including drama, vintage, and grunge.
  • Selective editing feature enables users to apply adjustments to specific areas.
  • Non-destructive editing, preserving original images.

• User Experience: Intuitive gesture-based controls and a user-friendly interface make editing a breeze.

3. Adobe Lightroom Mobile

Adobe Lightroom Mobile is a powerful app for photographers who want complete control. It provides advanced editing capabilities, including the ability to use presets for quick adjustments.

• Features:

  • Professional-grade editing tools like curves and gradients.
  • Syncing with the desktop version for seamless workflow.
  • A variety of preset filters that can be customized.

• User Experience: The interface is sleek, and the learning curve is manageable, making it a favorite among serious photographers.

4. Instagram

Instagram is more than just a social media app; it offers an array of filters that can enhance photos directly before sharing. While it may not have the depth of dedicated editing apps, its convenience is unmatched.

• Features:

  • 27 filters that can be adjusted for intensity.
  • Built-in editing tools for cropping, brightness, and contrast.
  • A vast audience for immediate sharing.

• User Experience: Users can quickly transform their photos with a few taps, making it perfect for those who want instant results.

5. Afterlight

Afterlight combines simplicity with robust editing tools. Its extensive collection of filters and textures sets it apart from many competitors.

• Features:

  • Over 130 filters, with the ability to create custom filters.
  • Unique textures such as light leaks and dust effects.
  • Double exposure feature for creative layering.

• User Experience: The app’s design is straightforward, enabling users to navigate easily while enjoying rich features.

6. Prisma

Prisma stands out for its artistic filters that transform photos into paintings inspired by famous artists. If you’re looking for a unique artistic vibe, this app is a top choice.

• Features:

  • Over 300 styles, with new ones added regularly.
  • Editing tools for brightness, contrast, and more.
  • Photo enhancement features to improve quality.

• User Experience: The app is engaging and offers fun options, perfect for those wanting a creative outlet.

7. Pixlr

Pixlr offers an extensive toolkit for everyone, from casual users to experienced editors. Its selection of filters and overlays makes it a versatile choice.

• Features:

  • Over 2 million combinations of effects, filters, and overlays.
  • Auto-fix feature for instant improvement.
  • Collage-making tool for creating visually appealing layouts.

• User Experience: The user-friendly interface ensures quick navigation through its many features.

8. PicsArt

PicsArt combines image editing and social networking. With its broad scope of tools and a community for sharing, it’s great for those who want to create and connect.

• Features:

  • Artistic filters alongside powerful editing capabilities.
  • Various collage templates for creativity.
  • Customizable stickers and emojis for personal touches.

• User Experience: The app encourages creativity and collaboration, making it enjoyable to use.

9. Foodie

Foodie is a specialized app for food photography. Its filters and features cater specifically to making food look appealing, perfect for food bloggers and enthusiasts.

• Features:

  • 30 filters optimized for food, enhancing colors.
  • Smart guides align food shots perfectly.
  • Additional editing tools for brightness, contrast, and saturation.

• User Experience: The app is tailored for quick and attractive food shots, making it user-friendly and efficient.

10. Camera+ 2

Camera+ 2 is an all-in-one camera and editing app, designed for users passionate about photography. Its array of filters and effects makes enhancing photos enjoyable.

• Features:

  • Various filters with the option to create customizable presets.
  • Advanced control options like manual focus and shooting modes.
  • Editing features such as clarity, exposure, and highlights.

• User Experience: It combines a camera and editing suite, providing a comprehensive tool for photography lovers.

11. Fotor

Fotor is a versatile photo editing tool with a variety of filters and a strong focus on design. It’s perfect for users looking to create not only stunning photos but also graphics.

• Features:

  • Hundreds of filters and effects tailored for quick editing.
  • Collage maker and design features.
  • HDR effects for stunning landscape photography.

• User Experience: Its easy-to-use interface caters to all skill levels, providing a fun editing experience.

12. Filterra

Filterra focuses on providing artistic filters to enhance images. Its simplicity and creative approach make it a great choice for users looking for quick enhancements.

• Features:

  • Numerous artistic filters, many inspired by classic art.
  • Easy-to-navigate interface focused on quick edits.
  • Ability to adjust filter intensity for customizable results.

• User Experience: The app is straightforward and ensures enjoyable editing without needing extensive photo knowledge.

13. Darkroom

Darkroom is a powerful photo editor tailored for iOS, combining professional-grade features with a user-friendly layout. Its filters provide unique adjustments for a polished finish.

• Features:

  • Instant access to RAW photo editing.
  • Filter management for easy application.
  • Batch processing feature allows editing multiple photos simultaneously.

• User Experience: The clean interface emphasizes usability, encouraging users to dive into detailed editing.

14. Enlight Photofox

Enlight Photofox is an artistic editing tool aimed at users who enjoy manipulating images creatively. It features filters and advanced layering styles.

• Features:

  • Artistic filters and effects to create surreal images.
  • Layering options for in-depth photo editing.
  • Over 150 filters to experiment with.

• User Experience: The app enables customization, allowing users to create unique works of art from their photos.

15. Bazaart

Bazaart is excellent for combining photos with graphics and artistic elements. It’s particularly favored among creatives wanting to design graphics along with photo edits.

• Features:

  • Extensive collection of artistic filters and effects.
  • Text tools for adding typography to images.
  • Options for creating collages and designs.

• User Experience: The exciting blend of photography and design features caters to users looking for creative expression.

16. Photo Lab

Photo Lab offers an array of artistic effects and filters, turning your photos into stunning visuals. It’s especially good for those looking for fun photo enhancements.

• Features:

  • Hundreds of effects, filters, and photo frames.
  • Quick interfaces for fast image swapping.
  • Collage and montage capabilities.

• User Experience: Highly engaging, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family due to its fun approach.

17. Mextures

Mextures is an app aimed at the serious photographer who enjoys overlaying textures and filters. Users can layer multiple effects to create complex images.

• Features:

  • Over 150 textures and 30 preset formulas.
  • Infinite layers for unique compositions.
  • Ability for users to save and share their formulas.

• User Experience: The creative tools allow for deep customization, appealing to users who enjoy artistic possibilities.

18. ColorStory

ColorStory focuses on vibrant color enhancements, which makes it perfect for lifestyle bloggers and influencers. Its filters have a modern flair highlighting vivid tones.

• Features:

  • The ability to adjust filter strength and mix colors.
  • Many stickers and overlays for creativity.
  • Easy-to-use interface for quick edits.

• User Experience: It’s perfect for users looking to create lively and eye-catching photos, making edits simple and effective.

19. A Color Story

A Color Story emphasizes vibrant and bright colors, providing users with a dazzling array of filters. This app is ideal for lifestyle photography.

• Features:

  • Unique filters designed to enhance color saturation.
  • Easy tools for exposure, curves, and contrast.
  • Custom filter creation possibilities.

• User Experience: Designed with simplicity, users can create striking images that pop with color.

20. Lens Distortions

Lens Distortions adds depth and atmosphere to photos, adding effects like rain, fog, and light leaks. This app is particularly great for creating moody visuals.

• Features:

  • Various overlays that mimic natural light phenomena.
  • Easy layering options for immersive effects.
  • High-quality filters suitable for professional photographers.

• User Experience: The focus on effects lends a unique quality to photos, enhancing creativity and artistic expression.

21. LightX

LightX is not just a photo editor; it offers an extensive range of filtering options. The tools are comprehensive, allowing for an all-in-one editing experience.

• Features:

  • Tools for blending, color mixing, and editing masks.
  • Unique filters and effects for stunning transformations.
  • Collage maker for creative compositions.

• User Experience: Its all-encompassing nature makes it a go-to for users aiming to produce professional-grade images.

22. WeCamera

WeCamera is an emerging app that allows high-resolution filters and effects through a simple interface. It is ideal for users looking for straightforward photography enhancements.

• Features:

  • Up-to-date filter options that cater to modern aesthetics.
  • Basic editing tools for quick adjustments.
  • Functionality to shoot and edit simultaneously.

• User Experience: Simple and effective, it’s perfect for quick edits while on the go.

23. BeFunky

BeFunky is a versatile app that merges photo editing with graphic design tools. It stands out for its unique filters and artistic effects.

• Features:

  • Fun filters and artistic effects for unique edits.
  • Collage and design creator tools.
  • Easy user interface without steep learning curves.

• User Experience: It broadens the scope of typical photo editing, making it ideal for creative projects.

24. FotoJet

FotoJet offers a powerful collage maker integrated with photo editing tools. This app is excellent for users who enjoy creating graphic artwork alongside photo enhancements.

• Features:

  • Collage templates and customizable designs.
  • Various filters and effects to enhance photos.
  • User-friendly drag-and-drop interface.

• User Experience: Designed for creativity, users can easily blend editing and design into one seamless workflow.

25. Krita

Krita is an open-source painting program ideal for artists and advanced users who desire complete artistic control. It’s perfect for painting over photos with high-quality filters and effects.

• Features:

  • Specialized brushes and editing tools for creativity.
  • Entire suite of artistic features tailored for graphic designers.
  • Advanced layering for detailed editing.

• User Experience: While it has a steeper learning curve, the creative potential is immense, attracting those with a passion for artistry.

26. Snapseed – Double Exposure

Double Exposure in Snapseed allows users to blend two images together, creating an ethereal effect. It’s perfect for artists looking for creative expression in photography.

• Features:

  • Layer management options for seamless blending.
  • Innovative filter applications to create unique images.

• User Experience: Users can experiment with different images and filters, creating delightful results.

27. Photo Editor by BeFunky

A desktop alternative that blends graphic design with photo enhancements, offering users a comprehensive toolkit for editing.

• Features:

  • Access to graphic design features and fun photo effects.
  • A variety of photo filters customizable to preference.

• User Experience: The intuitive design emphasizes accessibility and creativity, appealing to beginners and experts alike.

28. PhotoScape X

PhotoScape X is an all-in-one photo editor that allows extensive edits while offering a variety of filters to enhance images beautifully.

• Features:

  • Rich suite of editing tools alongside filters for modification.
  • GIF creation and batch editing tools.
  • Creative collage maker for artistic displays.

• User Experience: It’s easy to use for beginners while still providing enough versatility for experts.

29. Lightroom Photo Editor

A tailored version of Adobe Lightroom, aimed at mobile users, featuring easy filter application.

• Features:

  • Seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud.
  • Pre-designed filters for ease of use.

• User Experience: The design supports users who want polished results without professional-grade expertise.

30. Comixify

Comixify allows users to turn photos into comic-style images with unique filters designed to mimic graphic elements.

• Features:

  • Various comic-style filters for playful transformations.
  • Simple interface ideal for humorous creations.

• User Experience: Engaging for users wanting a fun spin on their photography.

31. Glitche

Glitche adds glitch art effects, perfect for those wanting a techy or erratic aesthetic in their images.

• Features:

  • Various filters that distort images into glitch art.
  • Adjustable glitch levels for custom effects.

• User Experience: It caters to a niche audience seeking alternative aesthetic choices.

32. Lifelapse

Lifelapse provides users with the ability to create photo animations utilizing filters for added impact.

• Features:

  • Simple keyframe system for animation.
  • Artistic filters to enhance movement.

• User Experience: Fun for users wanting to integrate their photography with animation elements.

33. B612

B612 is perfect for selfies and portrait enhancements, offering a myriad of filters to create beautiful images.

• Features:

  • Real-time filters for capturing stunning selfies.
  • Wide range of beauty features to enhance portraits.

• User Experience: The app is quick to use, appealing to users wanting immediate and good-looking results.

34. Retrica

Retrica has a collection of nostalgic filters perfect for vintage photography enthusiasts. Its ease of use allows for quick edits.

• Features:

  • Over 100 filters emphasizing a retro aesthetic.
  • Built-in collage maker for diverse styles.

• User Experience: Nostalgic vibes make it appealing for users seeking a quick vintage touch.

Final Thoughts

The variety of apps for adding filters to smartphone photos is astounding, catering to an array of preferences and expertise levels. Whether you’re seeking vintage aesthetics, artistic transformations, or simple enhancements, there is an app to meet your needs. By exploring these options, users can elevate their photography and engage audiences on social media platforms or within personal galleries without the need for extensive editing skills.