I've compiled a list of 5 free photo editing programs for Windows which you may like to look at. These are quality programs which give commercial ones a serious run for their money. Do take note, however, that some of these programs may be limited in features unless you buy an upgrade version.

The GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is an open-source program originally developed by two university students in 1996. It has now morphed into a powerful image editor with a huge user base. The latest version, the GIMP 2.0, has a revamped user interface that places it up there with mainstream image editors.

Picasa is a terrific freeware program available to fill your photo needs. Picasa can help you find, edit and share all of the pictures in your computer. If you have a multitude of photos, Picasa will keep them organized and maintained by sorting them into visual albums. Even better, is Picasa's ability to swiftly touch-up your pictures and correct most mistakes with an easy to use format. This software also provides the means to easily share these photos with friend and family through email, printing or CDs.

VCW VicMan's Photo Editor has a list of features comparable to Adobe Photoshop. With this program, you can effortlessly zoom into and pan within your image and carry out standard image editing. It also provides a wide range of color adjustment selections. While the free version is limited, you can purchase the commercial Pro version for the reasonable price of $30.

ImageForge is a free software image editor that equips you with a great set of tools for painting and editing images and photos. No matter the job, Imageforce can meet your needs from tweaking up your pictures to adding creative effects to an otherwise unexciting photo. Sharing your photos is a breeze with the ability to create photo albums or even simple slide shows.

Paint.NET markets itself as an on-going project at Washington State University, with features that equal commercial functions, including support for layers. It is offered as freeware and is readily accessible for download. There is a special Effects API for you to generate your own special effects in addition to standard image editing features. The program also has a strong user base that sustains its progress and development.

I hope you've learned a thing or two about the best free photo editors for Windows. Using a free photo editor is a great way to save money, while satisfying all your photo manipulation needs. However, I do advise that for serious, long-term photo editing tasks, go for commercial grade software such as Ulead PhotoImpact and Jasc Paint Shop Pro.