What is the main function of image editing software?

The primary function of image editing software is to edit, manipulate, or modify digital photographs. This encompasses a wide range of tasks, including adjusting colors, trimming dimensions, enhancing image quality, applying filters, and combining multiple images. Such software allows users to refine their photographs creatively and technically, enhancing visual appeal or achieving specific artistic effects.

While capturing images directly from the camera is important, this function is typically handled by camera hardware or specific software designed for importing images, rather than editing software itself. Similarly, storing and managing photos, while necessary, relates more to photo organization tools rather than the core editing functions of the software. Lastly, scanning printed images into a digital format is a separate process typically performed by scanning hardware and related software, which is not the primary role of image editing applications. Thus, the focus on editing and manipulation distinguishes image editing software as a tool essential for photographers and digital artists.