Re: [Gimp-user] Suggestions for the GIMP

[maderios <maderios gmail com>]

On 02/11/2013 08:01 PM, jfrazierjr nc rr com wrote:
> > Example with gimp
> > file => open =>  nut.png
> > adjust contrast => ok
> > I want to save it
> > I can't...
> > XCF ?
> > But I don't want  xcf now.....
> > Ok , I export
> > #########################
> > many many many files
> > => export
> > ok
> > #########################
> > many files later
> > => export
> > Arghhh......................................:
> > what happens....
>
> I believe the above illustrates a fundamental misunderstanding of what GIMP is and where it is going(at least my understanding).  
> The underlying Mantra is "keep the original unaltered"(or some such) and GIMP is slowly working toward that approach.  
> To accomplish the above workflow of altering the contrast of an image, a future version of GIMP(2.10, 3.0, ???) would not have 
> you modify the original layer, but instead would have you add a Layer Style(or some such "thingy" of whatever name) 
> that would modify the VISUAL representation of the layer, but would not actually edit the layer's pixels directly.  You could 
> add/remove layer styles at whim and could always get back to the original image both during the same editing session as well as 
> in future sessions days/weeks/months/years removed.  This rollback is not possible by direct editing of the original file.  Yes, 
> this is a really really simple example, but the same applies for an image that would need many modifications, aga
in, the g

oal should be non destructive editing.
> For example, I have used GIMP in the past to edit and create Tabletop Role Playing game maps.  I may for 
> example source an image of a rock which wish to place into my final image, but wish to add additional shadows 
> and highlights to give the image depth to make it appear more three dimensional.  Typically, I will place the 
> rock(or multiples) onto a single layer.  However, I NEVER, EVER, EVER modify that layer.  My approach is to 
> create a  new layer filled with 50% grey set to overlay.   I then use the dodge/burn tool upon this layer 
> with various settings.  Sometimes I copy this layer with reduced opacity.   Again, the point being that the 
> original layer is NOT destructively edited!!!
>
> Likewise, I NEVER, EVER make a selection and fill with some texture, especially on an existing layer with other 
> image data on it.  Instead, I put the texture upon it's own layer and then use a selection->Channel->Layer 
> Mask.  I spend a few additional minutes of work, but now I can far easily change to a different texture in the 
> future if required.   Again, it's a matter of learning and using the tool as it is intended to be used.  Yes, it 
> takes up more memory to use additional layers and layer masks, but it's well worth it in the flexibility it gives 
> me if I ever need to go back and edit it.
>
>
> > Here is the point: you have to remember/watch what kind of file you're
> > working on.
>
> Nope, you are ALWAYS working on a GIMP .xcf file.  The original format is irrelevant.  You need to train your 
> brain that this is fact.

Irrelevant for your needs, may be, but non irrelevant for many people ...
No, I work on all kinds of image files, not only xcf, sometimes none xcf 
at all, sometimes only xcf.
I think some people here have a "narrow view" about  working on image. 
This is the opposite of the artistic process...
> As noted by Alexandre multiple times, it may well be that you are refusing to accept that you are using the 
> wrong tool.   If you never need features that GIMP provides with the .xcf format, then this is almost 
> certainly true.  I am not trying to push you away from GIMP, but get you to really think about your needs and 
> how they match up with GIMP's functionality both now and in the future.  Based upon the above, if simple 
> edits like contrast changes are what you use most of the time, then another product really is the best 
> suggestion as GIMP will continue changing it's paradigm to support non destructive edits as new releases come 
> out in the future(thus changing where you see items in the menus, how many steps you take to do the same 
> thing may increase, etc.)
You know, I work with Gimp, layers, etc, since many years.... If you 
know a better free soft, tell it to me....Good lucK...
The save/as behaviour of Gimp 2.6, Krita, Showfot (kde), is ok but 
Gimp-2.8 is much better (matchless), except for save function...

--
Maderios
"Art is meant to disturb. Science reassures."
"L'art est fait pour troubler. La science rassure" (Georges Braque)