GIMP – An Alternative to PhotoShop

I love to use custom designed images to embellish discussions and I enjoy creating images for the tutorials that I write to help my students.
Sometimes a graphic cannot be found that will be "just perfect" for the information contained in a D2L tip, tutorial or externally linked webpage that we have written to help our students better understand a concept or procedure.

I use Adobe PhotoShop to create graphics that will specifically apply to a concept I am explaining.
I also use it to “Print Screen” to save D2L windows as graphics so that I can provide students with “Tips” on how to perform a task such as using the MS Word copy/paste icon for Discussions and Emails.

But Adobe PhotoShop is pricey! Is there an alternative? The answer is “Yes!”
There is an Open Source program called GIMP. [http://www.gimp.org/]
The program will allow you edit and retouch photos and images as well as create your own images from scratch. (Take care with copyright infringements when using other people's images!)
GIMP is free to download and the main program already includes many “brushes” and “filter effects” that will enhance photos and graphics. See the List here: http://manual.gimp.org/en/filters.html

GIMP downloads are available for Windows and MAC.
No small program…GIMP is loaded with “image effects” and supported with tutorials and online support. I have tried it and I've found it to be an excellent, free alternative to PhotoShop.

GIMP enthusiasts have developed even more plugins that will bring the basic program up to the standards and capabilities of PhotoShop. These plugins are also offered free to the public. See a sample list here: http://en.addons.pl/gimp.php
These additional plugins are available for different operating systems including Windows, MAC and Linux.

GIMP is something to consider trying if you are toying with the idea of creating your own images for use in your courses.

Lorrie