Basics - GIMP 2.6 for Photographers: Image Editing with Open Source Software - page 4

functions, and tools of alternative digital imaging software programs are
similar to those of GIMP 2.6 in more ways than you might think.
GIMP 2.6 also contains a built-in help system. In addition, there are many
existing topics about the software, including several free online texts. Please
refer to this topic's appendix for a list of references regarding GIMP.
1.2.2 About GIMP 2.6
GIMP is an acronym for GNU Image Manipulation Program . GIMP was bred
from the Linux world and is an open-source software program covered by the
General Public License (GPL ). GNU means “GNU's Not Unix” and refers to a
collection of software based on the UNIX operating system and maintained
by the Free Software Foundation.
GIMP is “the Photoshop of the Linux world”—it is the best free image
editing program. GIMP 2.6 was introduced in October 2008. This enhanced
version of GIMP meets the functionality requirements of even the most
exacting digital photographer. Its interface is highly efficient and easy to use
once you know your way around.
In fact, the topic you are reading right now is mostly based on GIMP
version 2.6.2 (released in October 2008). From the point of view of the user,
there have been no changes yet up to version 2.6.8 in January 2010. So for all
general purposes, this topic is current.
Image Editing
GIMP's primary function is to create and edit pixel or bitmap images, but it also
can be used for other tasks. The program will help you touch up your digital
photographs, create digital art, or author a new logo for your company's web
page. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Vector graphics programs are often used to create original or complex
images and/or animations. GIMP supports some basic vector graphic features.
You can draw an image using the GFIG plug-in and the Path tool. However, you
should be aware that GIMP was not designed to be a designated environment
for creating and editing complex vector diagrams.
Video Editing
GAP stands for GIMP Animation Package, and with it GIMP offers a range
of useful tools for creating small animations on a frame-by-frame basis. For
example, you can use GIMP's GAP package to read or write AVI- and GIF-
formatted videos and animations. You can also use GAP to open and read
videos in MPEG format.