I find Photoshop and Illustrator a bit difficult to use as a beginner. Are there any other tools that are easier to handle?

I love Photoshop and Illustrator; but I also know that they can be a bit confusing when you jump in with no direction at all. With a few lessons, either through a reputable institute or maybe an online course, both Photoshop and Illustrator can become simple, effective programs. 

If you are using Photoshop CS3-CS5 then the interface can be a bit complex.

But if you start with Photoshop7 or CS2 it can be easy.

Yes, just see the tutorials. I think photoshop is good for creating effects in photos and illustrator is good for creating new designs with good clarity.

Photoshop7 is perfect for the beginner.. Ulead photoshop,

everything in life starts in begin......nothing is difficult if we are interested to learn...when i start learning computer i found mouse is difficult to used.......anything you are always practicing and interest will makes you eassy

Just see the tutorials...

Alternate to Photoshop Corel Photo Paint, GIMP, Pixlr, Apple's Aperture, Paintshop pro, pixelmator

Alternate to Illustrator Corel Draw, Inkscape, Serif DrawPlus, Xara Xtreme, Skencil, Creative Doc.NET, Alchemy, Karbon14.

If you want something that has a shorter learning curve then checkout:

Inkscape or Xara Xtreme to replace Illustrator. Personally I am a huge fan of:

• Manga Studio EX5
• Autodesk Sketch Pro

Photoshop Express by Adobe is the next best option with a very short learning curve to replace Photoshop, otherwise try Gimp or Paint.Net.  

Yes Adobe Firework is good and easier software for graphic designing. 

Let me know if you want guide for that. 

Wajid 

Then go for CorelDraw instead of abode illustrator