GIMP(GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Published by Hidash Abdu P C P

What is GIMP?

GIMP is a free, open-source image editing platform. The program packs an array of professional-quality features which can genuinely rival Adobes Photoshop capabilities. Itsremarkable montage features allow the user to easily fine tune photos/images and createartwork from scratch. The selection includes noise reduction, cropping, automatic image enhancement tools, color adjustment tools, gradients, customizable brushes, and much more.

GIMP also provides plenty of features for the advanced user including filters, Bezier curves,layer masks, and an animation package. Its support for pre-installed or downloadable plugins is also commendable. Overall, the software is a force to reckon with among the bestfree image editing applications, and the ideal package for geek photographers who like to keep their editing space under control.

Overview of GIMP Benefits:

GIMP is a cross-platform image editing solution that leads the arena of similar open source programs. It gives the user the freedom to manipulate its source code and distribute thechanges. The application is 100% free, but that doesn’t mean it compromises on its features. It packs a punch in terms of quality features that make it the best free alternative to popular commercial-grade tools like Adobe Photoshop. GIMP provides all the sophisticated tools to the delight of photographers, graphic designers, and illustrators looking for the most convenient way to get the job done.

The program features a standard interface that conforms to the high-end graphics program layout. The GU interface is crafted to be cleaner and drive improved performance. Upon closer examination, you will notice the UI is divided into three parts. There is the main editing area, toolbox, and layer, paths, undo, and channels. The image tabs display vital image thumbnails, unlike in other programs which just display the name.

Although GIMP lacks the depth of the commercial photo editing programs, it provides all the essential editing features, commands, and tools. In addition, the software goes beyond the basics to provide some advanced editing tools like channel manipulation. Its “open as layers” command is a noteworthy feature which enables users to map an image into the layer of another.

Besides being an open source program, GIMP is easily extensible. It allows the user to enhance productivity via many customization options and its support for third-party plugins. Its active community of developers has engineered a wide array of plugins.

Overview of GIMP Features:

  • Customizable interface
  • photo enhancement
  • Digital retouching
  • Hardware support
  • Original artwork
  • Graphic design elements
  • Scribus
  • Inkscape
  • Swatchbooker

Installation guide:

Install GIMP For Windows:

At the time of writing, you’ll need Windows 7 or newer to run the latest stable version of GIMP.

If you’re on Windows, and you don’t know what operating system you’re using (ie Windows7, Windows XP, etc.) follow these instructions to find out which operating system you’re running:

  1. Now, go to the official GIMP repository and click the Download link at the top of the page to download GIMP. This version of GIMP will work with any version of Windows, as long as it’s Windows 7 or newer.

  2. While GIMP is available from a lot of sites (since it’s free and open source software), I recommend only downloading it from the official repository at GIMP.org to make sure you don’t get stuck with any malware.

  3. When the download is complete, open up the package, and run the installer. Follow any instructions on the windows that appear..

  4. That’s it! You’re finished installing GIMP! The first time you start GIMP, it may take a few minutes to get going, because there’s a lot of new stuff to load. Just be patient, it will start eventually.


Install GIMP For Mac:

To install the latest version of GIMP on a Mac, at the time of writing you’ll need OS X Yosemite or newer.

Not sure which version of Mac OS you’re using? Follow these instructions to find out:

  1. Now, head over to the official GIMP download page, and click it’s link to download GIMP to your computer.

  2. When the files are finished downloading, open up the Zip file, then open the installer to begin installing GIMP. Follow any directions you’re given in the windows that pop up.

  3. GIMP will now be installed on your computer! The first time you start GIMP, it may take a few minutes to get going, because there’s a lot of new stuff to load. Just be patient, it will start eventually.


How to install GIMP in Ubuntu:

  • Add software repository:

    In order to install gimp for ubuntu 12.04, we need to open up the terminal first. With that done, we will first add the new software repository that is required. For that, type in:

    sudo add-apt-repository ppa:otto-kesselgulasch/gimp

  • Enter password:

    With that done, you will be required to type in the password to continue. Once done, hit enter when prompted later on.

  • Find update:

    Now that the repository has been added, let's get an update so that the computer finds out which software is available in the repository that we just added. For that, type in:

    sudo apt-get update

  • Install gimp:

    Once done, you can start the installation process of gimp for ubuntu 12.04 by typing in the following command:

    sudo apt-get install gimp

  • Complete Installation:

    When prompted do you want to continue, simply type in " y " and hit the " enter " key. It takes a few minutes to unpack and install but from this point onwards, the installation will take place automatically.