Whats a Good, Free Graphic Edit Program?

Hi all,

I work as a newspaper advertising rep, and would like to be able to create sample ads to take some workload off the design dept. (only one guy, we're a local paper thats expanding rapidly). Is there a decent program out there that I could learn fairly simply? Basicly needs to be able to edit, cut/paste portions of pictures, and design basic graphic/text combination ads. I hope that explains it. Thanks for the help.

Blaine

 

I would recommend Photoshop, but if you want something really cheap and pretty easy try MGI Photosuite

 

For free I'd have to say GIMP it is not too aweful hard.. or maybe Open Office has some design / drawing tools.
Store bought I'd go with Photoshop Elements

 

I really haven't found any free decent art programs. The ones that come with most computers are usually awful. I would invest a little in a store bought program but not a photo program they tend to be anti graphic design.

 

Thanks you guys, that gives me a bit to run with. I used to have MGI Photo Suite, it came with a printer I bought or something but I dont know what happend to the disk. I was hoping to find a free one, will try GIMP. If Anyone has any other ideas besides buying one, please let me know 8 )

Thanks again,

Blaine