HDR Image-Based Lighting in Blender

Posted on: 19th March 2026

Instructor: N/A • Language: N/A

Learn to make GIMP 2.8 look and act like Photoshop in this free course, configuring the interface, installing plugins, and mastering professional photo editing techniques from a 15 year veteran. 

Description

Learn to make GIMP 2.8 look and act like Photoshop, configuring the interface, installing plugins, and mastering professional photo editing techniques for free. If you love the power of Photoshop but not the price tag, this free course stood out. It's taught by Bernard 't Hooft, an instructor with over 15 years of professional photo editing experience. Instead of just showing you GIMP's default layout, he walks you through a complete transformation, configuring the user interface and preferences, and installing plugins so it feels just like the Photoshop you might already be familiar with. Beyond the setup, you'll also dive into practical editing skills like using levels and curves, adjusting hue and saturation, working with layers, and understanding color theory for professional corrections.

This Course Offers

  • A complete guide to transforming GIMP's interface: You'll learn to configure GIMP 2.8 to mimic Photoshop's layout, including setting up single window mode and customizing preferences for a familiar workflow.
  • Hands on installation of essential plugins: The course shows you how to extend GIMP's capabilities by finding and installing plugins that bring it even closer to the Photoshop experience.
  • Practical photo editing techniques from a pro: You'll learn professional methods for improving and correcting photographs, including using Levels, Curves, Hue-Saturation, and contrast adjustments.
  • A solid foundation in layers, brushes, and color theory: You'll understand how to work with layers, get the most out of brushes (including tablet use), and learn why color theory is crucial for accurate corrections.

Why We Love This Course

  1. The instructor's credentials are rock solid. With over 15 years working professionally with Photoshop, and now teaching GIMP, he understands both worlds and can bridge the gap perfectly.
  2. It solves a specific pain point for many users. If you're used to Photoshop, GIMP's default interface can feel alien. This course removes that barrier instantly.
  3. It's more than just a setup guide. While the transformation is a major focus, you also get genuine photo editing training, making it a two for one learning experience.
  4. The instructor is incredibly responsive. He promises to answer questions within 24 hours, which is a huge support for a free course and shows genuine commitment to students.

GIMP is an incredibly powerful, free alternative to Photoshop, but its default interface can be intimidating. This course not only makes it feel like home for Photoshop users, but also teaches you the professional skills to use it effectively. It's a generous, expert led introduction to a world of free, professional grade photo editing, and it's backed by a money back guarantee if you somehow don't find value in a free course.

Course Eligibility

  • This course is for anyone who wants to learn how to professionally improve photographs using a powerful, free tool.
  • Photoshop users who are looking for a free alternative but are put off by GIMP's different interface.
  • Absolute beginners to photo editing who want to learn professional techniques without investing in expensive software.
  • Hobbyists and enthusiasts who want to explore the full potential of GIMP and understand how to configure it for a powerful, efficient workflow.

Course Requirements

  • This free course consists of the first two sections of the instructor's full 'The Ultimate GIMP 2.8 Guide'.
  • The course is made for Windows 7, 8, and 10. Mac and Linux users are encouraged to contact the instructor for assistance.
  • No prior photo editing experience is required, the course starts from the very beginning.

Interested in exploring more business lessons? Check out our full course library to continue building your skills and advancing your learning journey.

Price: Free