[max302]

I have recently seen "I can't open psd files" in some thread.

Solution #1: Buy photoshop. See the cash spill out of your pockets.

Solution #2: Get a cracked version of photoshop. NO! Copying software is bad!

Solution #3: Get the GIMP!!!

GIMP is an acronym for GNU Image Manipulation Program. Yes, I did say GNU, which means that you can get it for free off the internet! The GIMP does just about everything that photoshop can do, and sometimes more if you incorporate more scripts. It reads just about any image file format, including PSD, so you can create good looking graphics without spending loads on Photoshop. It can be found on www.gimp.org, and a portable version(no installation required) can be found on www.portableapps.com. There you go, you can now create PS quality graphics with something thats free. Have fun.

[1lacca]

GIMP is a really good tool, and it has saved my ass a couple of times - although some scripts are a bit unstable. Anyway, depending on your needs and likes, it can be a real PS substitute for some.

[theRemix]

gentoo linux is my primary os. I use it 99percent of the time. theGimp really is powerful. I use theGimp for quick fixes and fast jobs, but I still prefer the traditional industry standard for larger jobs and complete designs. I get PhotoShopCS2 from work so its free either way to me.
there's also this 'skin' or 'mod' to theGimp that i've heard of somewhere that make theGimp look and feel like photoshop.

[1lacca]

It's called GIMPshop.
However I'm happy I don't need this, as I haven't seen PS for years. Somehow I don't like Adobe things, they are just too bloated for my simple mind

[born2c0de]

I'm for GIMP

[ablaye]

I just bought a copy of Paintshop Pro for about $100. It is much cheaper than Photoshop but I heard not as good.

[SPlutard]

I got GIMP a few months ago and am glad for it - saved me tons of money, especailly since I don't need it too much. Though PS might have its advantages, I don't think they're worth hundreds of dollars.

[morfy]

i dont think gimp can do exactly all ps can do tbh; just non stable enough for stuff i need. i rly tried using it. but its just not the same =/ i think ps7 is the best there is out there;

[pioSko]

i agree.. PS7 i best out there.

PS CS and PS CS2 are amazingly bloated, while not really adding anything "creative".

PS7 works runs great on my PC while new version have issues even when clicking on the "file" menu...

[WolfCoder]

Agreed. I am comfortable with PS and it does what I want it to do.

[rebeccaj]

I've got GIMP and just getting to grips with it. I'm relatively new to image stuff so it's quite a steep learning curve.

I'm particularly interested in creating book and CD covers and have got hold of some photoshop scripts to speed this up. Does anyone know wheter I can use PS scripts in GIMP? I've delved a bit and can't see anything that says I can, but am I missing something?

Any thoughts gratefully received