Splashup is one of a number of free online image editors that are currently available. It's a good looking application with a slick interface and, because it runs in your browser, can be used on any computer with an internet connection.
As mentioned, there are quite a few free online image editors to choose from. Some of these are quite simple tools designed for less experienced users to quickly and easily improve their digital photos. Splashup, however, is designed to mimic the appearance of a pixel based image editor, such as Paint.NET and so will appeal to slightly more advanced users. It's feature set isn't as extensive as some other online editors within this segment, but this gives it a slightly less complex user interface which may be seen as an advantage by some users.
Highlights of Splashup
Splashup has a range of features that will please users looking to move up from a more basic free online image editor.
- Open images saved on photo sharing and social networking websites
- Load photos from your webcam
- Supports layers with blending modes and layer effects
- Good range of tools for manipulating images and layers
- Some easy to use Filters
- Work in full screen mode to maximize the workspace
- Save direct to popular photo sharing and social networks
Why Use Splashup
Splashup allows users to work directly with their photos in a way some of the simpler free online image editors don't allow. By combining layers with blending modes, some very unusual and interesting effects can be achieved. The range of selection tools means it is possible to edit specific parts of an image, while leaving other parts unaffected. Splashup also offers a range of drawing tools to allow users to manipulate pixels in a very hands-on way.
Combined with the Filters that are available, users can produce some unusual and creative results. While some simpler editors also allow users to produce creative results, the ability to combine multiple layers should ensure that creative users who take some time to learn Splashup will be able to produce unique results.
The save options allow users to very easily share their finished work by saving directly to some of the most popular social networking and photo sharing sites.
Some Limitations of Splashup
As with all free online image editors, you will need a reasonable internet connection as digital photos can be quite large and take a while to upload.
Surprisingly, Splashup is a little limited when it comes down to making more run of the mill image adjustments, such as correcting a poorly exposed image or removing red eye. Several common image adjustment features, such as Curves and Levels are absent, though it is possible to correct most common problems with the tools available.
Also the range of Filters isn't as extensive as some free online image editors, which may limit more creative or adventurous users.
Help and Support
At this point, Splashup falls flat on its face, unfortunately. While the Help menu in the user interface has a Launch Help option, at the time of writing, this option is grayed out and non-functioning. Looking on the main Splashup site, I was unable to find an obvious link to any form of help or documentation. I think it's safe to assume that there are plans for a help system, but if you're not familiar with this style of pixel based image editor, you may find some aspects a little difficult to pick up on. However there is a lot to be said for learning an application by just jumping straight in and trying things out to see what they do.
If you fancy having a go, you can try out Splashup for yourself here.