35 Years of Photoshop: A Legacy of Creativity & Changing Business Models

Thirty-five years ago, Photoshop 1.0 changed the creative world forever, giving designers, photographers, and artists a powerful new way to bring their ideas to life. Over the decades, it has evolved into an industry-standard tool, shaped by a passionate global community pushing the boundaries of digital art.

But as we celebrate this milestone, it’s worth asking: Should software still be something you can own outright, as it was back in the early days?

Photoshop started as a one-time purchase—buy it once, use it forever. Today, like many major creative tools, it’s locked behind a subscription model. While this approach enables continuous updates and cloud-based collaboration, it also raises questions about accessibility, affordability, and control over the tools we rely on.

So, as we reflect on 35 years of Photoshop’s impact, let’s also consider the future: Should we still have the option to buy software outright, or is the subscription model here to stay? For context, I currently pay the same amount each year, that I once paid for over a decade of use.

What do you think? Would you rather pay once for creative tools, or do you prefer the benefits of a subscription?

Have you audited your subscription costs lately?

Let’s discuss!

Elise Strachan: Elise Strachan is a former flight attendant turned career content creator who has built a thriving digital home and lifestyle brand as Australia's answer to Martha Stewart. With a passion for food, family, and technology that brings people together, she has seamlessly transitioned her creative expertise into a successful career as a business coach, consultant, and writer. As a contributor for Women Love Tech and The Carousel, Elise writes compelling op-eds on hot-button topics in tech, social media, and digital trends, while also spotlighting the ways technology enhances family life and entrepreneurial success. Her unique perspective blends creativity with technical insight, empowering readers to embrace innovation in both their personal and professional lives. If Elise’s story ideas resonate with you, or you have questions, insights, or contributions to her articles—or even an aligned cause— connect with her on LinkedIn. Together, we can spark meaningful conversations.

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