Photoshop CS2 is actually free right now on Adobes site.

Also I would use a shutter speed of absolutely no less than 1/250 with snakes, as they are a moving subject. A tripod helps, but you need to be able to move the camera freely when you're taking photos of a moving animal in a small space.

Honestly I have no idea why every snake breeder with a DSLR buys a light tent - I NEVER use a light tent! All you need is a single speedlite and a white wall to bounce the flash off. Also, a poster board of your color choice.

Voila!