Review of Fotoxx - Free Photo Editor Software for Linux
Introduction
Fotoxx is a free open source Linux program for editing all kinds of digital photos. The website also offers an extensive user guide to get people started using the software with a minimal learning curve. Because of the quality of the program, it being free, and the documentation, Fotoxx is highly recommended for digital photographers.
Download and Installation (5 out of 5)
Fotoxx is easy to download and install when using the alternative installation method provided on the website. Experienced Linux users can also use more advanced options to install their programs, but the alternative installation method is the easiest to execute.
Uninstall instructions are also provided on the Fotoxx website in the event someone would like to remove the program from their computer.
User Documentation (5 out of 5)
The user documentation provided online for Fotoxx users is both detailed and easy to understand. The guide also offers details on each button of the toolbar, and applicable keyboard shortcuts. The basic documentation is thorough without being a difficult read or unnecessarily long, and is definitely one of the best points of the Fotoxx program. However, those needing more intricate details will not be disappointed, as there are instructions in paragraph format explaining more advanced imaging features, including how to create slide shows and removing red eye from images.
Image Editing (5 out of 5)
Fotoxx has superior image editing capabilities and results, especially considering the fact this is an entirely free program.
Learning how to remove red eyes from pictures, blurring images, drawing lines and adding text, and other photo enhancements is a quick process. Once the user starts actually applying the functions available in Fotoxx, the results are noticeable and should improve most images. For those still skeptical about whether a free Linux-based program can produce quality photo editing, there are a lot of clear examples of before and after images on the Fotoxx website.
Images can also be trimmed, cropped, and even distorted or transformed. One of the most artistic elements available in Fotoxx is simulate drawing, which converts a digital photo into a simulated pencil or chalk drawing. This can transform a regular digital photo into something extremely artistic. Simulate embossing is also a great creative option of the Fotoxx program, which changes a seemingly ordinary image into a simulated metallic embossing picture.
Help Function (4 out of 5)
Fotoxx also offers an in-program help function, which is ideal for those who want to use new features or get stuck while editing their digital photos. The user guide is also accessible through help.
Keyboard Shortcuts (4 out of 5)
For those wanting to make Fotoxx a regular part of their digital photography projects, there are some keyboard shortcuts to learn that make using the program easier. The basic keyboard shortcuts can zoom an image, exit a slideshow, delete an edited image, rotate a digital photo 90 degrees to the left or right, move to the previous or next photo, and open the thumbnail index window.
Using these shortcuts is easy and uses common keys such as the up and down arrows, delete, the ESC button, and Z.
Image Conversion (3 out of 5)
Those looking to convert images into other formats may be disappointed with the absence of a lot of choices for this function in Fotoxx. The program only allows conversion of RAW files directly from a digital camera into TIFF format. However, the fact that a free program offers even this most basic image conversion feature is still a plus for those wanting to incorporate Fotoxx into their digital photography.
If you want to read more reviews of other similar programs, here’s a list of free photo editing software.
