GIMP Bible

Chapter 8. Transforming Images

IN THIS CHAPTER

• Using the Image and Layer menus

• Modifying your work with the image tools

Transform operations are some of the most commonly used functions in image manipulation. Technically speaking, a transformation involves moving the existing pixels in an image according to a given rule. Occasionally a transformation involves adding or subtracting pixels from the image. Assuming you've already used the Move tool, you've already performed a basic transform operation by moving a layer around. Other transformations include scaling, cropping, and rotation. Because these operations are used so frequently, GIMP provides a couple different ways to access them quickly. The main access methods are either by way of the Image and Layer menus in the image window or by directly using tools accessible in the Toolbox.

This chapter covers each of these methods in detail, pointing out useful situations for each one and tips about situations where one operation is more useful than others.

Adjustments Available in the Image and Layer Menus

As you may have already noticed from Chapter 6, the Image menu and the Layer menu in the image window share quite a bit of similar functionality. Don't make the mistake of assuming that this is overlapping functionality, though. There's a difference between transforming the entire image and transforming a single layer. When you apply a transformation to a layer, it has no influence on any of the other layers in the image unless you've ...