I've tried a few digital imaging programmes over the years and the cheap ones I've never really liked. Adobe has always been the one for me.
Until now..I must confess, I haven't done any searching around for a few years..so I'm not upto date what other software is capable of.
Photoscape is 100% free and I really like it. It's no replacement at all for adobe, but for a freebie it's fantastic.
If you do try it, I would recommend giving it some time..
It's like 100% not high end, but I really love the simplicity of the software and the final results are really amazing.
If you are after a high end looking finish..this is not for you. If you want something very unique, I would give this ago.
My immediate observation is, if you are using an old film camera and want to try and create 'something'...this is a very good starting point.
Check out the filters..
http://www.photoscape.org/ps/main/index.php