Keep your Photoshop habits while starting GIMP
Moving from Photoshop to GIMP often takes time because tool locations and shortcuts differ. PhotoGIMP is a free patch that modifies GIMP configuration files to apply a layout and shortcuts similar to Photoshop. After installation, opening GIMP lets you work immediately in a familiar layout.
Creating a Photoshop-like environment
PhotoGIMP reconfigures GIMP's tool placement, shortcuts, and window layout to match Photoshop style. It maps shortcuts according to the official documentation for the Windows version of Photoshop and adjusts default settings to maximize canvas space. Additionally, a PhotoGIMP-specific splash screen appears when opening GIMP, and the system menu displays the PhotoGIMP name and icon separately. This patch does not change GIMP's features themselves; it focuses on organizing the interface to match user manipulation habits.
Pre-installation preparation and precautions
PhotoGIMP works only with GIMP 3.0 or later and is not compatible with GIMP 2.x versions. Before installing, you must run GIMP once to ensure configuration files are created. The most important point is that PhotoGIMP overwrites existing GIMP configuration files. If you want to keep personal settings, you should back up the configuration folder before installation. On Linux, the install.sh script backs up automatically, but if you copy files manually or are on Windows or macOS, follow the manual backup procedure.
Platform-specific installation flow
For each operating system, download the latest release file, extract it, and copy the files to the GIMP configuration folder. For Linux, a script is provided that detects whether the installation is Flatpak or native. On Windows, files are placed in the %APPDATA%\GIMP folder, and on macOS, in the ~/Library/Application Support/GIMP folder. When copying files, you must select 'Replace' or 'Overwrite' if existing files are present. Once installation is complete, reopening GIMP applies the PhotoGIMP layout.
Removal and personal data safety
To remove PhotoGIMP, delete the GIMP configuration folder and run GIMP again. GIMP will then create new default settings. If you have previously backed up settings, you can restore them. PhotoGIMP only changes shortcut, layout, and environment configuration files; it does not affect personal data such as user-created brushes, fonts, gradients, or plugins. Therefore, work files and resources remain safe during both installation and removal.
Target users and verification items
PhotoGIMP is suitable for users who want to reduce the learning curve when switching from Photoshop to GIMP. It is useful if you are using GIMP 3.0 or later and prefer Photoshop shortcuts and tool placement. However, if you want to learn GIMP's unique workflow, it may be better to keep the default settings. Before installing, you must verify that your GIMP version is 3.0 or later and that you have backed up existing settings. There is no official website; the GitHub repository is the only official source.
