New MAC Software???

[huntjax]

I have just purchased my first MAC. I don't have a clue how to use it and I need to get some software on here so I can work on my pictures while traveling. I don't want to spend a ton of money. Any suggestions? What is your opinion on OEM products?
I would also like to find a program that has a really simple program for making collages like the MS Picture It 98. It is so easy, my kids can use it also. I'm embarrassed to say I still use it to make most of my collages

[Rcowan]

For the collages, the only thing I can think of is Photoshop Elements for the Mac. I don't know if iPhoto or one of the other iLife programs will do a collage. I am not familiar with Picture It. I use Aperture to work on my photos, but you can start with iPhoto. Go to the Apple website and look at all the tutorials for iLife and get an idea how to use all of them. I just started with Mac in November and I will never go back to PC!

[Corrie]

I use CS3 for everything including collages and storyboards. For slideshows I use IPhoto.

[AndrewCCM]

I love Adobe Lightroom.

Not really a collage app though.. But does nice slideshows in flash and HTML in addition to being a great editor/asset manager.

[huntjax]

Thanks, I'm not vey good with the computer. I have cs2 on my home computer4 and still haven't figured that all out. What I really need to do is find the time and place to take a PS course. I need to be shown and see how to do things, not just read about it. I guess that's why I always liked photography.

[Ken]

CS2 or 3 if it fits your budget, Photoshop elements if it doesn't. There are also some great low budget alternatives I think Pixelmator is one. I have found phoenix slides, a free mac app. to be a great picture viewer-very fast and friendly.

http://www.pixelmator.com/