GIMP is a super powerful free and open-source image editor, but its interface and workflow aren't the greatest if you are coming over from using Photoshop. Thankfully, there is a popular way to make GIMP a lot more like Photoshop using a customisation package called PhotoGIMP. This guide will explain what PhotoGIMP is, how it works, and how you can use it to make GIMP look and behave more like Photoshop.

What is PhotoGIMP

PhotoGIMP is not a separate version of GIMP but a customisation patch that alters GIMP’s configuration to better resemble Adobe Photoshop. Developed originally by the Diolinux community, PhotoGIMP reorganises the layout, introduces Photoshop-like keyboard shortcuts, and applies themes that mimic the Adobe interface. The result is a familiar environment for Photoshop users who want to take advantage of GIMP’s open-source flexibility without paying Adobe's ridiculous subscription prices!

Features of PhotoGIMP

When applied, PhotoGIMP adds and changes quite a few things to make it more like Photoshop.

• A Photoshop-style arrangement of panels and toolboxes that reduces clutter and maximises the workspace.
• Keyboard shortcuts remapped to match Photoshop defaults, such as using Ctrl+T for free transform.
• A new visual style with themes, splash screens, and icons that resemble Adobe’s design language.
• Default settings adjusted for smoother workflows, including better canvas handling.
• A bundled set of fonts and useful filters that are preloaded for convenience.

Note: These changes are cosmetic and workflow-oriented, meaning the underlying GIMP engine remains the same. PhotoGIMP does not add proprietary Photoshop features, but it makes existing GIMP functionality feel more familiar.

Benefits and Limitations

The biggest advantage of PhotoGIMP is the reduced transition period for Photoshop users. Transitioning to GIMP normally requires learning new shortcuts, adapting to different menu placements, and handling unfamiliar layouts. PhotoGIMP minimises that adjustment period, allowing new users to focus on their creative work rather than the mechanics of the software. It is also completely free, eliminating the cost barrier associated with Adobe’s subscription model.

IMPORTANT: Applying PhotoGIMP overwrites existing GIMP configuration files, so users with custom setups should make backups before installation.

How to Make GIMP More Like Photoshop (Installing PhotoGIMP)

The process requires GIMP to be installed first.

• Start by downloading the latest version of GIMP from the official website at gimp.org.
• Install and run it once to confirm it is working correctly.
• Next, download PhotoGIMP from its GitHub repository or from photogimp.com. The package typically includes a configuration folder that you will copy into GIMP’s settings directory.
• On Windows, this is located in the AppData folder, while on Linux it may be inside the hidden .config or .var directories.
• After replacing the configuration files with those provided by PhotoGIMP, restart GIMP. The interface should now load with the Photoshop-style layout and shortcuts.

Note: It is strongly recommended to back up the original configuration before applying PhotoGIMP. If you ever want to revert to the default GIMP setup, restoring the backup will undo the changes without requiring a full reinstall.