Gimp
From Mandriva Community Wiki
Functionalities overview
In addition to photo editing functions, the Gimp also includes tools that can be used to create drawings, annotate images, and generally anything a bitmap-based photo editor can do. In short, Gimp is a useful application capable of photo editing and manipulation, digital retouching, and graphic image production. The list of compatible file types includes 37 different formats that can be exported including Gimp's native .xcf file type. The list of formats the program can import is also extensive and includes native Photoshop format files and scaled vector graphic (.svg) files. It should be noted that Gimp is a bitmap editor and not an SVG editor like Inkscape, Adobe Illustrator, Dia, or OpenOffice Draw for example. Incidentally, using Inkscape to create simple elements, then importing them into the Gimp for further processing and manipulation into more complex graphical compositions is a powerful way to work. A wide variety of installable filters, plugins and scripts are available from third-party developers to make the Gimp even more powerful.
Prospective users should be aware that, like other powerful graphics programs, the learning curve can be steep. Users thinking about migrating from a program like Photoshop must be aware that the two programs differ greatly in interface and approach to their task. Actually using the program is well beyond the scope of the Mandriva Wiki, but there are many tutorials and other documents available on the Internet to help users learn basic and advanced techniques under the Gimp.
While Gimp is very powerful and versatile, it has not yet implemented the CMYK color model support making it less able to handle pre-press color processing. Development has made it clear that CMYK color is likely in the near future. Some users have also expressed the desire to implement non-destructive adjustment layers similar to other photo editors. There are indications that this feature may also appear in the future.
The Gimp user interface has also been subject to criticism by users migrating from Photoshop. Where most applications produce a single window containing all workspace and tools, the Gimp interface produces separate windows (at least 2) for tools, workspace, and other adjustments. A redesign of the UI is evidently pending for release in the near future.
While uncomfortable for some, the Gimp's interface is useful and allows for the docking and undocking of interface elements like the toolbox, color space, etc. A somewhat dated video demonstration of the Gimp's interface can be found here. For users who find the native interface too obnoxious, or who are simply interested in alternatives, there is the GIMPshop. GIMPshop is an interface hack designed to emulate the more familiar interface of Adobe's popular photo editing application.
In summary, The Gimp is a feature-rich photo editing and manipulation application that can be used for much more. While some users may take exception to the user interface, the interface is configurable and useful.
