Photo Editing Software

[chess]

Originally Posted by MrX

I currently use Photoshop CS3 for nearly everything, it is fairly easy to navigate and use once you take the time to learn it. I also have Corel PaintShop Pro Photo X2 which is very nice as well (and much cheaper than photoshop).

[czygvtwkr]

Paint.NET is free and I like the interface much better than GIMP.

[TwilightImaging]

Half Angel...there are many web sites out here that have tutorials on everything from basic to advanced PS techniques, a lot of books as well. But spending time on any editing software, moooocho time...for me...has been the best way to grasp what is possible.
As mentioned, make sure your calibrated, use new layers, and adjust away...and enjoy! And remember...there is really no exact way to make adjustments to communicate an image, any image...that comes from you.
I once read a tagline from someones signature "I know it's underexposed...I want it that way:)"