Not used it, but I have used GIMP. Not as intuitive as Photoshop (which itself isn't particularly intuitive either), but a nice program results wise, and has many, many free resources to draw from v.v. brushes, scripts and turorials etc from the various online communities.
Get GIMP from here -
http://download.cnet.com/GIMP/3000-2192_4-10073935.htmlGet Gimpshop from here -
https://www.gimpshop.com/downloadsGimpshop review***IMPORTANT***
In the comments beneath the review, it says the following:
"Do NOT install this software. It's full of BLOATWARE. You go through four screens of what you think are "accept terms of service", when in actuality you are accepting to download the bloatware. The right button is clearly visible "ACCEPT" while the left button "do not accept" is hidden in shaded grey. Makes it appear as though you will be refused to download the software. It's all bloatware even if you deny everything and complete installation. I have Windows 7. I've had to buy a program to remove several of the bloatwares hidden but still activate. Also, Malwarebytes has quarantined numerous threats."
And, in the CNET reviews, it has a less than stellar reputation too:
CNET ReviewsA minefield.
Looks like jumping in at the deep end with the full GIMP program may be best, even with the steeper learning curve.
I like him ... He says "Okie Dokie!"