So here's a quick summary of what I've discovered so far:
Gimp is free. For many, that is the best reason to start using it despite some of the smaller and not-so-smaller issues it has. Issue #1: Adjustment Layers. This is a VERY desirable thing to have, but of course there are workarounds which will take much longer than if the feature was there. Issue #2: the program edits only in 8-bit. While it does a commendable job in 8-bit, I personally would prefer to work in 16 bit. This allows quite a bit more freedom when working on the edge with files. I've read that it's coming in the next version. Issue #3: The file types. I understand that it has it's own file type that they like to save as (called an xcf file), however - I'd like to be able to save as a much more universal file type such as TIFF (16 bit), or the newest dng file format. JPEG is a definite no for a file I'm going to potentially edit later. DEFINITELY NO. This last issue is a killer as far as I'm concerned, and the workaround is to download a so-called plug-in which is now actually no longer a plug in. On top of that, the author of said plug-in is anti-Microsoft (which is his prerogative, but it reflects on the GIMP people too). If I have one bit of advice for the Gimp developers, it is to find a way to no longer need UFRAW, since it's no longer a plug-in for their latest version anyhow. I see some great potential for Gimp, for the obvious (free) reason, but also because it is a cross-platform, efficiently written program. There are in fact a few features it has which look like they are better than what PS has. And for those developers out there who take issue with Microsoft, that has really nothing to do with what photo-editing software we use. If you want to be the winner - make your software work on the major OS's. More later - you can be sure of that.
1 Comment
I thought it worthy of mention of this group of photographers who make a contribution... well - there truly are no words to describe the value of what they give. Check out "Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep" and you will understand.
This is a not-for-profit organization, and what they do, under the circumstances is amazing. Having two children of my own, I couldn't even come close to being able to contribute without being a complete mess (not to mention, the talent to put together these beautiful photos). Has anyone had any experience using GIMP? I tried it very briefly about 18 months ago, and I was not impressed. As I understand, there have been some pretty decent strides in the software recently, and now that Adobe is sticking us into a perpetual subscription mode, having an alternative for when you really do need to use layers and composite photos etc is key.
Sure, Lightroom is still available in a purchase-once form (for now), but it also does NOT do all that Photoshop can do. The CS3 that I use at work is working for me - for now, but I'm sure there will come a time where this will be an issue. I do use Illustrator for the datasheets and so on - and that too will be an issue. I suppose finding an alternative to this will also become a future quest. If you have had experience with GIMP, drop me a line, add a comment, let me know. If there are alternatives, let's spread the word. I've got nothing against Adobe - their products are excellent. I just can't afford them, so I'm gonna look for an alternative that will get MY job done. |
John T."Photographs capture my viewpoint - based on my place on this planet, where I've been and who I am. If you 'get it' then you've been there too, either in mind, body, heart or soul." Also see the "EauPositivePhotography" pages for other stuff
Archives
May 2024
Categories |