Free Alternative to Photoshop

NetBie · 11-17-06, 03:25 AM

Is there any free alternative to Photoshop. I think there is a software called GIMP which was originally developed for Linux. It is now available for Windows also, it is FREE. I think it may not be in the same level like Photoshop but it can be very useful also.

Super Mod · 11-17-06, 04:49 AM

Yes, GIMP rocks. If you Google the name you will also find many tutorials on the the web for GIMP.

glyakk · 11-18-06, 11:13 PM

As far as I know, the GIMP is the only fully featuered graphics program that you can own for nothing. But you have have Linux to run it. The good news is Linux is also free but not the most user friendly operating system(the same can also be said about windows).

I purpose an alternative, something that you dont have to fork over $500+ for but still has virtually all the featuers you would need for most, if not all, tasks. Photoshop Elements is not photoshop, but it is a close second. And it costs only 90 bucks, even the tightest budgets could swing that if the ability to design your own graphics is an intragal part of your buiness.

In fact Elements might be the cheapest option if you look at all the factors involved.. Putting together a dedicated linux box just to run the gimp will cost you well over $90 in hardware, unless you just happen to have it laying around. But in that case I would just sell the hardware and use the profit to buy Elements.

Also, if you plan to run it as a dual boot on your existing machine, do not forget the steep learning curve needed to learn linux, on top of learning the gimp as well as potential downtime and frustration that could cost you well above a measly $90.

Ive used graphics editing programs for over 8 years and have never found a program as user friendly and powerful at such an affordable price as Elements.

mahway · 11-20-06, 09:19 PM

i find GIMP to be... rather different from photoshop. If I had to choose, I'd go with photoshop elements.

star123 · 11-21-06, 03:49 AM

I think Gimp is better software than PS. I have been using GIMP for two or three months and i am happy with it. GIMP is better software for making animation. I recommended it for web-designer and other designers. It is free and easy to use so anyone can make good animation by using GIMP. It helps in the every day editing needs.

kconnections · 11-27-06, 11:36 AM

I want to get into doing some graphic designs and have thought about giving Gimp a try. Are there tutorials available on Gimp?

paperclip · 12-03-06, 12:06 PM

I have been using gimp and think is great. I have done some graphic work and people don't believe that I'm only using GIMP. You can see a few of my designs here

kconnections · 12-04-06, 06:08 AM

That is great that you are able to do such good designs using Gimp. Like I said if I ever try to learn more about graphic designs I think I will try Gimp first.

Rohitpatel · 01-27-07, 11:56 PM

I think GIMP is best freeware software in this industry but it is not better than other commercial softwares like Adobe Photoshop and others.

With GIMP you can learn many things which you couldn't use on other softwares. If you want use graphics software withour paying any money than you should use this one.