2. Why GIMP?

GIMP is open-source software licensed under the GNU General Public License. So why is this important? For starters, open-source software is available to users “free-of-charge” provided that the use of the open-source software is in line with the applicable open-source license. You are not required to pay any fee in order to use GIMP.

GIMP is cross-platform meaning that the software is available for Linux, macOS, and Microsoft Windows operating systems. GIMP files that are created in one operating system environment can be opened, edited, and saved in another OS environment.

3. What are “Layers”?

In graphics software, “layers” are the different levels where you can add or place certain objects or images to your graphics file. When creating and designing a graphics image, think of a layer as being a solid or transparent sheet of paper that is stacked on top of other layers of your image.

Essentially, a layer is a container of certain graphics elements. Each layer that is created becomes a component of the overall image that can be easily modified and manipulated without affecting any of the other layers or containers of the image.

4. Why use Layers?

Layers are levels of a graphic image that allow for certain graphics elements to be added to the overall image. Layers are stacked on top of each other and can be easily moved up layer levels (moved to the front of the image) or moved down layer levels (moved to the back of the image). Creating layers allows for the editing and manipulation of a specific container of graphics elements without having to edit or impact the graphics elements contained in other layers. The biggest benefit of using layers is the amount of time you will save when applying edits to your image.