How to save and edit photos in WebP format in GIMP

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a powerful open-source image editing software that provides a wide range of features and tools. While GIMP initially lacked native support for WebP format, the latest versions have integrated WebP support, making it easier than ever to save and edit photos in this efficient image format. This article will guide you through the process of working with WebP images in GIMP, enabling you to take advantage of WebP's superior compression and image quality.

I. Saving Images in WebP Format

The latest versions of GIMP, starting from 2.10.18, come with built-in WebP support, eliminating the need for a separate plugin. Here's how you can save images in WebP format using GIMP:

1. Open the image you want to save as WebP in GIMP.

2. Click on the "File" menu and select "Export As."

3. In the "Export Image" dialog box, navigate to the folder where you want to save the WebP file.

4. Enter a filename for your WebP image, making sure to include the ".webp" extension.

5. Adjust the desired export options, such as quality level, metadata preservation, and compression settings.

6. Click the "Export" button to save the image in WebP format.

II. Editing WebP Images in GIMP

1. Opening a WebP Image:

- Launch GIMP and open the program.

- Click on the "File" menu and select "Open."

- Navigate to the location of your WebP image and select it to open in GIMP.

2. Basic Editing:

- GIMP provides various tools for basic editing, such as cropping, resizing, rotating, and flipping. These tools can be applied to WebP images just like any other supported format.

3. Adjusting Colors and Levels:

- GIMP offers powerful tools like Levels, Curves, and Color Balance for precise color adjustments. These tools can be used to modify the color balance, brightness, contrast, and saturation of your WebP images.

4. Layers and Masks:

- GIMP supports layers and masks, allowing you to apply advanced editing techniques. You can add or remove layers, adjust their opacity, and utilize masks for selective editing on your WebP images.

5. Filters and Effects:

- GIMP provides a wide range of filters and effects that can be applied to your WebP images. Experiment with options like blur, sharpen, artistic effects, and more to achieve the desired visual impact.

6. Adding Text and Graphic Elements:

- GIMP allows you to overlay text and create shapes on your WebP images. Utilize the text tool and shape tools to add captions, logos, or other graphical elements to enhance your visuals.

7. Saving Edited WebP Images:

- Once you have made the desired edits to your WebP image, simply click on the "File" menu and select "Export" or "Export As."

- In the export dialog, choose the WebP format and configure the desired export options.

- Provide a filename for the edited WebP image and click the "Export" button to save it.

Conclusion :

With the integration of WebP support in the latest versions of GIMP, saving and editing photos in WebP format has become a seamless process. GIMP, known for its extensive features and tools, now allows users to leverage the benefits of WebP's superior compression and image quality while enjoying the flexibility of powerful image editing.

Saving images in WebP format is a straightforward process in GIMP, requiring no additional plugins. With just a few clicks, you can export your images as WebP, optimizing file sizes without compromising visual fidelity. Additionally, GIMP's extensive editing capabilities enable you to enhance and modify WebP images using a range of tools, from basic adjustments to advanced techniques like layers and masks.

By combining GIMP's editing prowess with WebP's efficiency, you can create visually compelling images that are optimized for web usage. With the ability to save and edit photos in WebP format directly within GIMP, you can streamline your workflow and achieve stunning results.

Embrace the power of GIMP and its built-in WebP support, unlocking a world of possibilities for your image editing needs.