I, like most people if not all people, keep learning about new editing tools and techniques and constantly look for new avenues to apply to photography.  I was contemplating buying NeatImage, mainly to reduce noise and correct the exposure (brightness, contrast, shadows, etc.) if I did not 'get it right' the first time.

In this day and age of freeware and shareware there are alternative to those programs that carry a hefty $ tag or are just too darn complicated to use for someone just starting out or with a good amount of experience.

I was referred to a free version (and the pro version) of the noise reduction program called Helicon. The free version works fine and is MUCH simpler to use than NeatImage.  The Pro Version is $50 and does give some nice and simple options, the free version works just as good

Here is the link for the download.

Enjoy!