Originally Posted by PhillySRT
Wholeheartedly 2nd this recommendation. I use Photoshop CS3 on an almost daily basis and was truly impressed with how in-depth the "Elements" offering is after seeing it on a co-worker's laptop, especially for the price.
Motion carried.
Obviously Photoshop CS3 is the app to choose if you're looking for the ultimate, but for someone looking for a less robust application you just can't beat Elements. Paint Shop Pro and Gimp are OK, but they lack the overall feel and power. Plus, if you decide down the road that you're hooked on this digital photo manipulation, etc and want to spring for the full PS application you'll have a high degree of familiarity with it.