Shonen Jump
LQ: 9.55
Recommended Age: 12+
Skills Used: Flexibility, Focus, Reading
PicLab is one of the more robust free photo editing apps. There is a wide supply of editing options, from framing, text edits, exposure, brightness, color, and saturation to a nearly 20 different filters. Once published to Instagram, as the app suggests, users can add another filter, allowing for a unique picture with almost every publish. Users can even add shapes and texture to their pictures. Photo editing apps that have this many options for edits can be confusing, compromising simplicity for high functionality. But that’s not the case with PicLab, a robust, easy-to-use photo editor, where users can have complete creative freedom with in their presentation and process. The watermark on the bottom of every photo can be removed for .99, and all photos can be published directly to Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or the photo stream on the mobile device. It’s suited for children ages 6 and older.
It's important that users explore PicLab before publishing a photo. All it takes to start is about 5 to 10 minutes to feel comfortable with the editing process and the options that are available. The flexibility thinking skill primarily deals with learning how to adapt, adjust, and accept change. Photo editors are about making changes and adjusting settings to alter and image's quality. Even for users who have favorite filters, or edits that they know will make a good aesthetic foundation for an image, they should not get "stuck" in a particular way of thinking about photo presentation. Instead, users should always be looking for unique combinations of filters and effects, as they continue to learn more about the app's functionality.
Photography is concerned with planning a shot. But photo editing is more concerned with planning an approach. Of course, users cannot snap pictures blindly and expect good results, but generally speaking users can make up for an off center shot or mundane subject through editing. So it's important that users know exactly what options they have at their disposal -- which may require spending a few minutes with the app beforehand. After taking a picture, users should think about what it calls for. Does an object stand out? Should the surrounding be blurred? Or would it be more expressive in black and white. A plan is important -- especially with so many filter options. Users should be willing to compromise, however, if a better option presents itself. Immediately after a photo is taken, users should begin to think about how they will approach adding filters and edits. Forethought is very important when editing photos, as it gives users a direction and vision.
All membership plans come with full access to our entire suite of tools learning guides, and resources. Here are a few of the ones we think you’ll like the most: