If you don’t want to pay for Photoshop, a few options are available that provide similar features. The most popular free alternative is called GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation System). GIMP is an open-source software that’s available on Windows, OS X, and Linux. The photo editing and manipulation module is the primary area where most designers and developers spend their time. You can complete everything from photo retouching to advanced manipulations. In terms of website design, GIMP allows for the creation of icons, buttons, banner images, and more. You can even make completely new mockups or wireframes depending on what you need.
GIMP integrates well with a wide range of third-party tools. What’s great is that the developers have decided to create integrations with mostly free and open-source apps and software. For instance, designers want to ensure that all of the website colors are bright and accurate. GIMP works with tools like SwatchBooker, Inkscape, and Scribus to manage all of those colors.
What’s more, is that the entire interface is customizable and adaptable to your other software. I feel that the interface isn’t as modern and clean as Photoshop, but the functionality is rather similar without the price tag. Besides, Photoshop has a learning curve as well, so most people just getting started with both tools need to do some learning anyway.
