Full GIMP Review: The Photographer's Verdict on GIMP

The wide selection of photo editing software can be confusing. All of them offer basic tools, but what about a more advanced experience? What you should pay attention to when choosing photo editing software and why you should select GIMP, or on the contrary, reject it. You will learn about this and much more from the article. So is GIMP a good photo editor? Let's figure it out!

What is GIMP Used For

GIMP (GNU image manipulation program) is quite a popular and convenient photo editor that many users like. Its features can be useful for both beginners and professional photographers. It is considered one of the first open-source photo editing alternatives to Photoshop. Is GIMP as good as Photoshop? Read the detailed comparative characteristics GIMP vs Photoshop to answer this question yourself. GIMP includes many powerful features similar to the Adobe product, including layers, plug-ins, drawings, text, filters, selections, and masking. However, it lacks advanced features like AI filters and smart objects. Also, of course, it has a completely different interface. But this is a matter of taste and adaptation. If you're looking for Photoshop-like capabilities but without expensive subscriptions, then GIMP might be of interest to you.

Pros and Cons

Let's start with a quick overview of the pros and cons of this software.

Is GIMP Safe

It is a logical question, considering that this program is completely free. Developers can even create their software that uses its code. For example, you can find photo editing programs that are offshoots of GIMP, such as PhotoGIMP (which is more like Photoshop) and Krita (which focuses on drawing and designs). Users who like GIMP can support it by donating to its developers via Patreon. In comparison, you pay at least $9.99 monthly for Adobe Photoshop for as long as you use it.

GIMP is generally considered safe to use if you download it from an official website or trusted repositories. You should also update it on time. Always download GIMP, like any other product, from its official website. This way, you will avoid any malicious changes. It is also available through the official software repositories and secure sources for Linux users.

Because the source code is open and publicly available for viewing, many developers and users regularly check it for security vulnerabilities or malicious code. It helps to identify and solve any problems quickly. And timely updating of GIMP ensures the availability of the latest security patches.

The official version of GIMP does not contain adware or unwanted software, so you can judge for yourself whether it is the right product in your hands. Be careful when downloading GIMP from unofficial sources or websites, as these versions may contain malware or adware.

Is GIMP Easy to Use

In short, the answer is yes. Let's break down the ease of use by using key parameters.

Installation

GIMP runs on GNU/Linux, Apple macOS, Microsoft Windows, SunOS, OpenBSD, FreeBSD, HP-UX, Digital UNIX, Tru64, OSF/1, Solaris, IRIX, AIX, OS/2, NetBSD, and BeOS. All versions are available for download from the official website "gimp.org" or via BitTorrent. It takes up less space than Adobe products, and its installation is simple.

Interface

Yes, it needs to be updated. Yes, it is difficult to call comfortable.  Yes, it lacks many modern tools. However, it is functional and very similar to the basic Photoshop layout. A bonus is that you can customize the interface colors with themes and toggle the panels you want on and off. GIMP provides tooltips that explain interface elements. Hovering over them will give you context-sensitive help. There are many keyboard shortcuts, and you can even create your own.

Working with Images

With GIMP, you can open most image formats, including the Adobe PSD format, whose layers are saved and edited. However, for some formats, such as raw camera files (those containing all camera sensor data, such as Canon CR2 files or Nikon NEF files), you may need third-party software such as RawTherapee or DarkTable. You will not find organizational features here, catalogs, or tags. But it's a program for editing clean images, so hoping for anything more is useless.

Editing Photos

In addition to the basic functions and tools, this software has many layer modes - as many as 38. For comparison, Photoshop has 27. Among them are layer groups, duplication, merging, and masking. The app also has Smart Scissors, equivalent to Photoshop's magnetic lasso in that they cling to the edges of shapes as you draw. This photo editor does not have AI functions that are present in other popular photo editors like Luminar Neo or Lightroom. However, you always have the option to combine the two working software for more professional results.

Productivity

Although GIMP is quite nimble, it is still noticeably slower than commercial programs. Depending on the features you use, the number of layers, and the image size, it may force you to wait too long for the change to be applied. Therefore, consider alternative commercial options if you are looking for operational work.

User Reviews

You could briefly understand users' impressions from the description of advantages and disadvantages. For example, GIMP for Mac reviews are mixed. Users appreciate its powerful, free image editing capabilities, but some report occasional bugs and less polished performance than native macOS apps. Frequent updates and community support help mitigate issues and improve functionality over time. Check out the Best GIMP Alternatives if you're looking for more productivity software or want to expand your image editing skills.

GIMP and Luminar Neo

Suppose you need professional photo manipulation software. Consider Luminar Neo, which is noted for its smooth and fast operation and AI tools to unleash your full creativity. Whether you use a computer or a tablet, if you can afford more professional software, pay attention to Luminar AI  — it will be the best choice. 

You can easily Replace Color in Image with Luminar Neo’s automatic tools. Color replacement in GIMP involves manual selection and adjustments using the Pick by Color and Color Swap tools. You will get accurate editing, but it takes more time and effort.

As another example, GIMP's image resizer offers fine-grained control via the Image > Image Scale menu, allowing fine adjustments in pixels, inches, or percentages with options for interpolation methods. Luminar Neo provides a simpler, more intuitive Image Size Changer with basic options, focusing on ease of use and detailed control.

Combine GIMP and Luminar Neo by using GIMP for manual, detailed, intricate edits and graphic design tasks, then switch to Luminar Neo for applying AI-driven enhancements and filters. Export images from GIMP to Luminar Neo to take advantage of its powerful, intuitive tools for quick, professional-quality finishing touches. 

Bottom Line

Despite the negative reviews, GIMP provides free image editing tools. And they are high-quality and effective. This photo editor is a great option for beginners and those who want to avoid paying for Photoshop features. GIMP lags behind more advanced photo editors in terms of ease of use, performance, and advanced features. However, it can be combined with paid software such as Luminar Neo to increase your creative abilities and professional work with photos. So, with everything you've learned from this article, is GIMP a good photo editor for you?