Moving thousands of photos can be exhausting. Especially when you need all your images resized or converted into another format. If you’re a photographer like many on Reddit, you’ve probably asked yourself: “How can I do this faster?” The good news? There are smart tools for batch resizing and format conversion that save tons of time.
TLDR:
You don’t need to edit each image manually. Use batch editors to convert formats and resize in bulk. Reddit photographers love tools like FastStone, XnConvert, and IrfanView. They’re all about speed, control, and simplicity.
Why Batch Processing Saves Your Sanity
Whether you’re migrating to a new website, sharing galleries with clients, or saving space, batch resizing and format conversion are lifesavers. Doing it one by one is pure torture. Trust us, even pro photographers wouldn’t dare.
Reddit photography communities often praise certain apps they swear by — tools that handle thousands of images like a breeze. We’ve rounded up the top six most recommended.
1. FastStone Photo Resizer
Platform: Windows
Price: Free for personal use
FastStone is the cult favorite for a reason. It’s not pretty, but it’s powerful. You can batch rename, resize, rotate, convert, and add watermarks — all in one go. The drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to use, even if you’re in your coffee-high, sleep-deprived editing state.
- Supports most image formats (JPEG, PNG, TIFF, BMP, and more)
- Allows for scripted batch processing
- Light on system resources
Reddit says: “It chews through 10,000+ photos like nothing.”
2. XnConvert
Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
Price: Free
XnConvert is another batch tool that won’t cost you a dime. It supports over 500 image formats, which is insane. Plus, you can apply over 80 actions — like brightness adjustment or resizing — while converting.
- Cross-platform support for almost every OS
- Non-destructive editing (no overwriting unless you want it)
- Option for command-line usage with the sibling tool, XnConvert NConvert
Reddit says: “The best free solution for serious batch jobs.”
3. IrfanView (with Plugins)
Platform: Windows
Price: Free for non-commercial use
IrfanView’s interface feels like a flashback to Windows 95, but it’s surprisingly good! When you install its plugin pack, it becomes a batch-processing master. The batch conversion tool works well for both pros and casual users.
- Superfast conversions
- Great support for batch watermarking
- Preview feature before batch runs
Reddit says: “A bit ugly, but unstoppable.”
4. Adobe Lightroom Classic
Platform: Windows, Mac
Price: Part of Adobe Creative Cloud
If you’re already in the Adobe ecosystem, Lightroom is your powerhouse. It offers robust batch export options for resizing and format conversion — and you can even apply presets while you’re at it. It’s more than just resizing; it’s workflow optimization.
- Sync edits across hundreds of images
- Set export size, format, and naming rules
- Integrates well with Photoshop if you need extra editing
Reddit says: “I just select, right-click, export. Done.”
5. ImageMagick
Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
Price: Free and open-source
For those who don’t fear the command line, ImageMagick is supercharged. It can do just about anything with images — all from a terminal. Resize, convert, compress, watermark, and even create animations!
- Scripting-friendly for large-scale jobs
- Lossless conversions if set correctly
- Complete control over quality, size, and format
Reddit says: “Automation heaven for big migrations.”
6. Photoshop (via Image Processor)
Platform: Windows, Mac
Price: Paid (Adobe CC)
Photoshop isn’t just for pixel-perfect edits. With its built-in Image Processor script, you can resize and convert entire folders of images — without lifting a finger after setup. Perfect for those who already use Photoshop daily.
- Everything’s done inside the Photoshop environment
- You can run actions while processing
- Great for consistent macros across galleries
Reddit says: “Not the fastest, but super consistent for polished output.”
Bonus Mention: Darktable
Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
Price: Free and open-source
Darktable deserves a shoutout for being the best free Lightroom alternative. It’s got extensive export tools built-in, where batch formats and sizes are easily adjustable. Great for power users who prefer open-source systems.
- Non-destructive workflow
- Advanced control over image quality and export presets
- Totally free, always
Tips from Reddit for Better Batch Work
- Always work on copies! Keep originals untouched.
- Set a consistent naming pattern to avoid confusion during migration.
- Preview before batch exporting when possible. It’ll save you from a thousand regrets.
- Use preset folders so edited files go exactly where you want them.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re resizing 5 images or converting 5,000, you shouldn’t do it manually. These tools are game-changers for time-saving, and Reddit photographers make full use of them. Pick the one that fits your OS, skill level, and workflow best.
So next time you face a huge gallery migration, don’t sweat it. Open up one of these editors, batch those babies, and reclaim your creativity (and your afternoon).
