How to Get Started Using GIMP

Adobe Photoshop is the standard in graphics editing, there's no doubt about it. But for those of us who can't seem to reconcile shelling out the big bucks to occasionally play around with pictures, there's a free, public-domain version called GIMP. I have previously detailed what GIMP is and where to find the free, downloadable version online.

Once you've downloaded and installed GIMP, you're ready to get started. But where is everything?

Let me clarify something for those of you who have ever used Adobe Photoshop. GIMP, although offering many of the same functions as Photoshop, is not an exact replica. Tool layouts and names do not directly crossover between programs.

If you are already familiar with Photoshop, you might initially be frustrated with GIMP, unable to locate favorite tools and effects and wasting time looking in all the wrong places. Or if you have never used an advanced editing program before, you might just feel overwhelmed in general. Either way, I suggest taking in a deep breath and relaxing. If you have made it this far, I have no doubt that you, too, can eventually get a handle on the program. You just need to be patient.

Open GIMP and let's begin. When the program is started, a rectangular tool bar will appear. This toolbar is similar to that of Paint, providing basic tools and brushes used for various effects. Hovering over a specific icon will trigger an explanatory popup box to appear listing the icon's name and a brief description of what the tool can do.

When starting out, you have two options for opening up a workbook: opening a new file or opening an already existing file.

Selecting to start a new file will open a dialog box allowing you to select the size and format of your workbook. Default settings include 420 by 300 pixels (roughly 5.83 by 4.17 inches), as well X and Y resolutions of 72 pixels per inch. If you know of no reason to change the settings, then don't. It's that simple. You don't need to make things any more complicated than they naturally are.

Selecting to open an already existing file will open up a toolbar giving you access to your computer files. You may select a regular image file (.jpg, .png, etc.) or a GIMP file (.xcf). Once your workbook opens, you'll be able to begin editing.

It may take some time and practice to become familiar with all of GIMP's tools and effects. But there are plenty of online tutorials to help master the program. Good luck!