Iaza – Convert Images for Free

Photoshop has its benefits, and there are times when it’s necessary to use a sophisticated tool to get the results you really want with an image. Then there are all the other times. When you want to make basic adjustments to digital images, Iaza is the web-app to use. Iaza users can convert and edit photos online without having to download complicated software or learn about confusing new programs.

To say that uploading and converting an image with Iaza couldn’t be easier is an understatement. To see for yourself, just head to the Iaza site, click the black arrow, and grab a photo from your hard drive. After clicking “load,” you’ll see the image appear on your screen. What you do next is up to you. Convert the image to another format, crop it, rotate it, resize it, bend it, warp it, or animate it. You can add layers and artistic flourishes, or adjust the brightness and contrast until the image looks its best. If you have absolutely no idea what to do with the image, then just click the “Instant Fix” button and let Iaza do the work. Iaza saves each version of the image, so you don’t have to worry about saving over the original or writing over some of the adjustments you’ve already made. To save the updated version of your image on your desktop, just click the image once and then save the larger version that shows up on the next page. Viola, you’re done.

Although Iaza functions best as a basic image-editing tool, the application actually has a number of advanced features for people to try, as well. Users who know a thing or two about editing digital photos can add filters and watermarks with Iaza, and they can even create a collage of combined photos. When it comes to free image editing tools, it’s hard to beat Iaza.

Practical Uses:

• Change the brightness and contrast of a photo taken in low light
• Quickly crop your ex out of a group photo
• Improve the quality of images taken with your mobile phone
• Rotate a photo or adjust the size before posting it on Facebook

Insider Tips:

• Iaza saves the history of each photo and lets users compare versions side by side
• There are no downloads or plugins necessary to use Iaza
• Users can create photo collages with Iaza
• Twitter and Facebook users can post edited photos with one click

What we liked:

• Iaza is incredibly simple to use
• Every editing option is listed on one page, eliminating confusion over how to find a certain feature
• Older versions of a photo are never saved over or erased
• Unlike other photo programs, Iaza is completely free

What we didn’t like:

• Iaza does impose some size restrictions on uploaded photos

Alternatives:

• myimager.com – http://www.myimager.com
• Pixenate – http://pixenate.com
• Snipshot – http://snipshot.com

Company Info:

• Launched: 2007
• Privately Held
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California
• Founded by: Christopher Minson
• Web site: http://www.iaza.com

Costs:

• Free