GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) is a free and open-source alternative to Adobe Photoshop. It provides a no-cost and power-packed alternative to the expensive photo editing software. You will be able to perform various tasks such as photo retouching, image authoring, and composition.
It is possible to make use of the GIMP either as a simple paint program, an online batch processing system, image converter including the advanced image retouching program. The tool can also be used a mass production image renderer. GIMP is mainly designed to work with plug-ins and extensions. With the help of the advanced scripting interface, you will be able to perform a simple task and complex image manipulation procedures.
Tools
GIMP includes a wide range of painting tools such as brush, pencil, airbrush, clone. Moreover, it offers Sub-pixel sampling for all paint tools to enable premium anti-aliasing. The tool provides us with a powerful gradient editor and blend tool. It also provides support for custom patterns and brushes.
Memory management
The tile based memory management in the GIMP helps you to limit the image size by available disk space. You can open an unlimited number of images without causing any lags. In addition to full alpha channel support, the GIMP also includes channels, layers, and editable text layers. You can perform multiple undo and redo features.
Transformation tools
You will find several transformation tools such as scale, rotate, flip and shear and a wide range of selection tools such as a rounded rectangle, free, fuzzy, ellipse, and rectangle. It also offers an extraction tool and advanced path tools for performing bezier and polygonal selections. You can make use of Quickmask to paint a selection.
GIMP can be easily extended by taking advantage of advanced scripting capabilities such as Python, Perl, and Scheme. You can use plugins to easily add new file formats and effect filters. As of now, there are over 100 plugins available.
With GIMP, you can load and save animations in a convenient frame-as-layer format with support for MNG, frame navigator, onion skin and Bluebox. The GIMP provides support for a wide range of file formats such as BMP, GIF, PSD, PNG, PDF and much more.