Get Gimp!
: Looking for an inexpensive Photoshop alternative for your Mac? Gimp may be the answer.
If you're a Mac lover, or just someone who's unwilling to part with over $500 to own a copy of Adobe Photoshop, you might want to check into Gimp. You can download a partial version of Gimp for free or pick up the full version dirt cheap.
Either way, the program is nearly as good as Photoshop, boasting many of the same features and a lot of fun effects. And while the program may look confusing at first, there's actually nothing to it. A few quick instructions, and you'll be using Gimp like a pro
Basic Functions
Gimp includes both basic functions (like cropping and editing your pictures) and more sophisticated features (like applying filters and cloning). No matter what your skill level, you're sure to have fun exploring Gimp.
Most of the basic functions are extremely simple. Just hold your mouse cursor over a picture on the left hand menu, and a text box will tell you what it's for.
From there, Gimp works just like any other photo editing software, allowing you to crop and adjust to your heart's content. The colors menu will allow you to further correct any flaws in your pictures.
More Advanced Functions
If you're familiar with Photoshop, Gimp doesn't present any problems -- even the icons are the same. If you've never used Photoshop, or never used its more advanced functions, you'll have a blast learning about Gimp. Here's one to start you off: cloning.
Everyone loves cloning -- it's how they produce those wacky pictures of the two-ton rabbits. And with Gimp, it's easy. Just open two photos -- one you want to copy from and one you want to copy to.
Step One: In the picture you want to copy to, add a new layer by selecting "add layer" from the layer menu (this will allow you to erase any mistakes without hurting your original photo).
Step Two: Select the clone tool, which looks like a little rubber stamp
Step Three: In the picture you want to copy FROM, hold down the control key (the actual control key, my Mac friends, not the command key) and you'll get a sort of cross hairs. Click in the center of the object you want to copy to the other photograph.
Step Four: In the picture you want to copy TO, begin "painting" over the area you want to change. The other picture will appear like magic.
Step Five: Clean it up by selecting the eraser and going around the edges of the new object (this is why we added a new layer -- so you don't erase the original photo at the same time).
As you can see, Gimp offers as many fun features as Photoshop. Get Gimp and clone your own crazy pictures today.
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