When an image will be used on a web page, editing is usually performed at applications built for it (like Photoshop). For advanced editing and cropping, that is required but for simple ones, using JavaScript can be a good choice. And, that leaves the original image un-edited so we can always change the filters applied.
PhotoJShop is a JQuery plugin that enables us to apply such simple effects/filters to images.
Have you tried using JQuery to add effects or filters. The plugin works on canvas + images, which once they are layered can cause for easier usage.