Mastering the art of image manipulation can give you a career boost in graphics design. Likewise, GNU Image Manipulation, or GIMP, is a strong tool to start designing.
But do you know how to use GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) at full power? GIMP is a free, open-source image editing and manipulating software similar to Adobe Photoshop. If you are a junior designer, GIMP will be an exceptional tool to harness all the editing advantages.
So, we will discuss the GIMP tutorial for beginners in this article. Keep reading till the end to have the best beginner’s guide to editing photos in GIMP. let’s get started!
The Beginners Guide to Editing Photos in GIMP
Contents
This tutorial will teach you how to use GNU Image Manipulation Program. After the basic lessons, you can learn painting, editing, logo creation, and other well-demanded skills using it.
How to Install GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP)?
You need to download and install the software on your computer to start your journey. We’ll walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth setup so you can start editing your images in no time.
Install GIMP on Linux:
You can rely on several methods to install GIMP in the Linux operating system. First, download GIMP from the Unutu store. Despite being able to install using source code or terminal, we will focus on the Ubuntu store. Because Ubuntu offers you the best graphical interface for everyone.
- Step 1: First, open your Ubuntu software and browse the application.
- Step 2: Now, search for “gimp.” in the Ubuntu Store. The first result will bring GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP).
- Step 3: Click on the install button to start the installation process.
- Step 4: Enter your password to authenticate and wait for the installation to be done.
- Step 5: Search for GIMP in the Ubuntu Dash and click the GIMP icon on the launcher.
Install GIMP on Windows:
Windows is the most used operating system worldwide, so you would be more likely to use GIMP on Windows than Linux or MacOS. Here are the best gimp tutorials for beginners to install GIMP on Windows.
- Step 1: Go to https://www.gimp.org/downloads and select the Microsoft Windows OS to install GIMP on Windows.
- Step 2: After downloading, click on the setup file and click accordingly to start the installation process.
- Step 3: Click the GIMP icon to start the application after installation.
How to Use GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP)?
Opening GIMP, you will see an interface similar to Photoshop. But GIMP is a linear-based editing program, meaning you will destruct the main image file once you start working. So, you cannot go back and forth to recover your previous edits like Photoshop.
Basic Features in GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP)
You will get comprehensive features to enhance, manipulate, and create stunning images using GIMP. We have listed some of those features you can make use of.
- Editing Tools: There is a wide range of editing features found in the GIMP. The selection tools include Selection Tools (Rectangular, elliptical, freehand tools), Painting and Drawing Tools (Brushes, pencils, airbrush tools), Cloning, and healing tools. Cropping and resizing tools, Text Editing Tools.
- Layer & Masking Tools: Layers allow you to work independently on different parts of an image without changing the main image. GIMP has layer based editing interface like Photoshop. GIMP also supports layer masks, which enable precise control over the visibility of specific areas within a layer.
- Filters and Effects: You can apply an extensive collection of filters and effects on your image in GIMP your images. These effects can provide blur, sharpening, noise reduction, distortion, artistic effects, color manipulation, and more o the photo for endless creative possibilities.
- Color Adjustment and Retouching: GIMP has tools for adjusting images’ color, brightness, contrast, saturation, and hue. You can fine-tune these properties using levels, curves, color balance, and exposure to remove blemishes, unwanted objects, and imperfections.
- Text and Typography: With GIMP, you can add and customize text within your images. It offers a variety of fonts, text styles, sizes, and alignment options to create visually appealing typographic designs.
- Batch Processing: GIMP enables batch processing, allowing you to automate repetitive tasks on multiple images. You can apply the same edits, filters, or adjustments to a batch of images, saving time and effort.
- Extension and Script: GIMP is highly extensible, so you can add additional functionality to bring it further. You can enhance GIMP’s capabilities by installing plugins and scripts developed by the Linux apps developer community.
- File Format Support: GIMP supports many popular image file formats, such as JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, and PSD (Adobe Photoshop). It ensures seamless integration with other software and workflows when working with a group of people.
Basic Benefits of GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP)
GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) has generated a significant user base. User informed their satisfaction in internet forums according to their needs and preference. Here are some factors that contribute to overall satisfaction with GIMP:
- Free & Open Source: The biggest advantage of GIMP is it will always be free as a Linux-based program.
- Cross-compatibility: GIMP is supported on almost all major operating systems, from Windows to MacOS.
- Learning Resources: You will get a lot of resources from GIMP, including official documentation, tutorials, and user guides.
Wrap Up
You must download and install the software to know more about how to use GNU Image Manipulation Program. GIMP opens up a world of creative possibilities for image editing and manipulation. Following the installation step in this guide will help you harness its power to enhance your images, create stunning visuals, and bring your artistic vision to life.
FAQ
Do I need Windows to install GIMP?
You can install GIMP on Windows easily but are not limited to other operating systems. GIMP is a cross-platform image editing tool for designers. It is available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
Does GIMP support different file formats?
Yes. GIMP supports many image file formats, including JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, and PSD (Adobe Photoshop). When saving or exporting your edited images, you can choose the appropriate file format.
Is GIMP suitable for professional image editing?
Yes, GIMP comes with many features and tools comparable to commercial software. Many professional designers use GIMP for their creative work. Professional artists prefer GIMP for manipulating their images.
How do I download and install GIMP?
You can download GIMP from the official GIMP website (https://www.gimp.org). They also provide installation packages and instructions for different operating systems.
Can I use plugins in the GNU Image Manipulation Program?
Yes, you can use GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) plugins. GIMP is highly extensible, allowing users to enhance its functionality by installing and using various plugins created by the GIMP community (https://registry.gimp.org/).