From first installation to advanced image manipulation techniques, Beginning GIMP: From Novice to Professional, Second Edition explains how anyone can utilise The GIMP: a free, open source image manipulation program. You will learn how to install The GIMP on Windows, Linux, and MacOS X platforms. Once you ve installed the application, you ll learn about the interface and configuration options, and then jump into a quick and simple project to familiarise yourself. With four color graphics and screenshots throughout, you ll learn how to prepare camera images for display on web pages including processes like rescaling, cropping, and balancing colour. Utilising layers, paths, and masks are also covered in extensive detail. Of course, you will also learn how to draw lines and shapes; utilise patterns and gradients; and even create your own brushes, patterns, and gradients. GIMP expert and author Akkana Peck teaches you how to touch up digital photographs, smudging away blemishes, fixing red eye, and stitching panoramic images. You ll learn how to tap into the powerful filters, effects, and plug ins that are available for The GIMP and automate tasks using scripts. The entire book is approached in a project based manner, and as you progress, numerous projects will help strengthen your newly acquired abilities.