Instructions
Determine the type of photography you plan on shooting and the amount of editing you will be performing on a regular basis. A professional photographer will have different needs in a photo program compared to someone who only takes pictures on vacations or special events.
Perform an Internet search looking for programs that perform the tasks you have determined that will be done on a regular basis. From the results of your search, compile a list of free and for purchase programs. Determine your budget and keep the links for the programs that fall within your budget and are free.
Read user reviews on the different programs you have selected and narrow your search down to two or three programs that you will try yourself. Most for-purchase programs will allow a user trial period for a short amount of time.
Download the trial versions of the programs you have selected as potential programs for you to use. Open the two or three trial versions you have downloaded and perform the same task on each program at the same time. The best way to evaluate how a program works and how easy it is to work with is to complete the same task, adjust exposure for example, at the same time. Make notes during your testing. Repeat the process for other tasks you plan on completing with your photo-editing program. When your testing is done, review your notes and select the program you feel will be the best for your needs.