What GIMP does
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open-source raster graphics editor released under the GNU General Public License. It runs natively on Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it one of the few full-featured image editors available across all three major desktop platforms without cost. At its core, GIMP provides a layer-based editing workflow that allows non-destructive compositing of images. Layer masks, channels, and paths give precise control over selections and transparency, which supports complex photo retouching and graphic design work. The brush engine is customizable and supports pressure-sensitive input from drawing tablets. GIMP handles a broad range of file formats. Its native format is XCF, which preserves layers and editing state between sessions. It can open and export Photoshop PSD files, as well as common formats such as PNG, JPEG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, and WebP. This broad format support makes it practical for workflows that involve assets from other applications. For repetitive tasks, GIMP includes Script-Fu (a Scheme-based scripting environment) and Python-Fu, both of which allow users to write scripts that automate editing operations across batches of images. The application's functionality can also be extended through third-party plugins. Typical use cases include photo retouching and correction, image compositing, creating and editing web graphics, preparing print-ready artwork, and digital painting. It is used by photographers, graphic designers, web developers, and hobbyists who need capable image editing without a commercial software subscription. This page links to the full offline installer sourced directly from download.gimp.org, the official GIMP distribution server. Always download GIMP from its official publisher to ensure you receive an unmodified copy.
