Photoshop is actually not a generic term for image manipulation software. It is the name of one the more full featured programs. We know what people mean when they use it as a generic term, tho, so no worries.
I've been using a variety of image manipulation programs. So, if you're looking for what might work best for you, read on. At least it'll be a good start.
First off, Photoshop. This software from Adobe is looked at by many as THE photo image manipulation software. Good reasons for that view. It is very full featured. However, it does have a rather steep learning curve, and it is expensive. For anything beyond basic exposure or cropping adjustments, you probably should use one of the tutorials, either a 'for dummies' type manual, a you-tube series, or a full on class. If photography is your business, or if you want to move beyond basics to advanced, spend some time getting to know this awesome program.
Many people are turning to another Adobe offering, Lightroom. Lightroom takes some of the most common adjustments of Photoshop, and puts them in an easier to use and understand program. The controls seem a little more intuitive to how a photographer thinks, as opposed to how a computer tech thinks. Pricing is much lower than Photoshop, too.
Adobe also offers a couple of subscription models for these programs. For a small monthly fee, you can sign up for Adobe's Creative Cloud. Various subscription models are available. Besides the upfront cost factor, a great benefit of using the Creative Cloud versions is instant upgrades. As soon as a new tool is designed, it goes onto the cloud and your program will update to that. Works with new cameras and their specific RAW files, as well. The subscriptions come with some nifty extras. Like membership to the BeHance website and extra programs useful for our digital world.
Another lower cost program is Adobe's Photoshop Elements. Some of the most used aspects of Photoshop in a very basic interface. A good start, but any serious digital photographer is likely to outgrow this program fast. I recommend either Lightroom or the Creative Cloud memberships.
Another very good program outside of the Adobe world is ACDSee. An advanced photographer will want to use the "Pro" versions, as they have many more controls. ACDSee's use of slider controls makes almost any color, contrast, exposure, or sharpness adjustment as easy and intuitive as using your camera controls. The dodge and burn tools feel exactly like you're in a darkroom using film and paper. Relatively inexpensive, too, especially when you catch one of their frequent sales. One negative mark, tho. If you buy a new camera, there is a chance that you may not be able to find an update for your older version to use the new RAW files. Example, if you had ACDSe Pro 5 and then bought a new Nikon D3200, D5200, or D7100, your program won't read the new RAW files. Because upgrades for Pro 5 ceased as soon they released ACDSee Pro 6. Since they add in new features with every new version, tho, it's not really that painful to get the new program. A generous upgrade pricing structure helps, too.
Perfect Effects 8 and some of the Serif brand of programs are available from time to time as free downloads. Full programs! Just not the latest versions. Some really nice tools in these programs, and again with a very intuitive feel for longterm, oldschool photographers.
Some cameras come with their own versions of image manipulation software. The versions packaged with the cameras are usually very basic. But, they will allow you to read your RAW files and convert them to TIFF or JPEG so you can use them with other programs you might have. A huge reason to use the packaged software is for video. Editing and file conversion are important tools to have. I will upload another blog post sometime in the near future about video editing.
Hopefully, this helps you know what to look for. Examine your own style, wants, and needs, and then shop for the software that enhances those things specific to you.
My own preference is the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription or the latest "Pro" version of ACDSee. Both are excellent options and are also cost effective.
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