GIMP Version: 2.8.10
Operating System: Windows
GIMP Experience: Beginner Level

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Hi guys! So I've been playing with GIMP again and I appreciate what Odinbc suggested to me. I had to delete all of GIMP and re-install it and then find the right add-on for the layers. It works! I wish it was easier and that this plugin was to be given withing gimps installation. Weird how this feature isn't there.

Ok now, I'm going to assume that there are also plugins that I want to get my hands own that mimics PS. There wouldn't be by any chance an easy installer where it basically installs all the popular add-ons that GIMP has to offer in one package? It would make my life a whole lot easier rather than digging up one by one plugin. Let alone I don't even know their names or functionality. Cheers!

You will he hard pressed to find such an installer. Scripts, Plugins and just about anything Gimp you can think of are continually being updated/changed.
Best thing to do, is to "try" and keep what you already have installed up to date, and expand only when needed or necessary.
It's an "Open-Source" program that's continually in flux.
Keeping up with it can be difficult, but rewarding at the same time.
I also wish that there was one file/folder with everything and anything one would want, but that's what makes it so special.
You can decide what you want to install and what you don't what to install.
Keeping on top of things is part of the "Open-Source" disadvantage or advantage, depending on how one looks at it.

Oh! Man, that is a disadvantage. I also just realized that even within the program of GIMP Help it doesn't have like an Auto Update feature. I do however understand your view point (actually the open source view point of things) but that can be a tad annoying. Like right now for example I am using the Layer Effects tool and I am happy with its current stage because it does the job. But then because I get caught up with work, the developers have released a new tweak which adds new features and probably makes the workflow much more easier than before and I didn't even know about it until it is really late for me. Because I have already used the old tweak on probably 4-5 of my professional work where as if I knew about the new tweak it could have saved me time/energy and better workflow.




I have visited the registry site and I'll be honest, I don't like the layout of the website and design. It really needs to be upgraded. The search flow for things look dull and not very inviting. It is as if the site is made for developers and not regular users. By that, I mean I would love for it to look like a plugin grocery store (just an example but hear me out). If I was to visit the site and look for a specific plugin, I would love for it to provide me with picture sample of it does, shows me a video demonstration (optional), points the download link and an instructional video (thumbnail size or a set of pictures) that shows how to install the plugin based on your operating system.

I know what I say may sound like "Oh, we just might as well just spoon feed everyone because no one likes to help themselves when it is all there." Yes, everything is indeed 'there' but this is the real reality of things. Especially for GIMPS case, it is not inviting. The whole goal for GIMP or for any open source software for that matter is to encourage users to use these softwares because they are for everyone and that the quality it offers are the same if not, better than what propitiatory software has to offer. But I doubt that will ever happen. I know that it is very possible, it can be done, but try convincing that thought to the people who are in-charge of the main hosting plugin site.

Anyhow, since we are on the topic of 'plugins' and that there is just so many out there, I am going to assume that some of you guys are pros in graphic design or illustration . In your own personal opinion what are some of the best sets of Plugins you would you recommend me to get and install on GIMP. Even if it is stuff that mimics some of the new features that Adobe CS 6 provides like Content Aware tool. Give me your thoughts.

The only thing I can suggest is if there is a specific plug-in or script you want, just ask here on this forum, or use the Search feature. That is what forums are for.
There will never be an all-in-one folder that contains all the scripts for the main reason, every one will have to sift through to find what they are looking for.
We are not competing with PS and never will.

I think the closest you're going to find to an all-in-one installer is one of Partha's builds as he does like to bundle in all sorts of extras: http://www.partha.com/

Kevin

what is popular?
Something that's popular for you did'nt interest me - for example
For my work i need exactly 3 additional plugins, not more. So i copy these 3 pieces to the right location and i'm done. Easy at it is.

I do agree that usage of "open source software" is important, but I think you failed to mention that most if not all open source software is designed to give it's user a way to manipulate the software to their "own" particular needs.
This you will not find with any "propitiatory/Closed-source" software such as Photoshop.

The primary business model for closed-source software involves the use of constraints on what can be done with the software and the restriction of access to the original source code. This can result in a form of imposed artificial scarcity on a product that is otherwise very easy to copy and redistribute. The end result is that an end-user is not actually purchasing software, but purchasing the right to use the software. To this end, the source code to closed-source software is considered a trade secret by its manufacturers


This is a good question, that only you as a user of Gimp need to answer for yourself.
The more you use Gimp, the better understanding you'll have as to what your needs are.
Anyone can offer you slews of suggested plugins for you to install, but "one mans trash can be another mans treasure".
For instance... If I were using Gimp mainly for "photo retouching", what good would it do for me to install scripts or plugins that are text based.

Very we'll explained Graechan and Wallace.

For my needs, everything I want is here in Gimp and especially this forum with all the super talented script writers who give their time, FOR FREE.
They also take requests from our members to update, add to, and listen to our ideas.

It bothers me a lot when some one comes along and vents about all the things we don't have, but never compliments on all the FREE hard work these people give back.

@Molly, I can work with that. It’s just having to put things in text for the kind of effects or functions can be difficult to put into text. I’m definitely going to be poking you from time to time. C:

@paynekj, I just checked the link and read the plugins build. Have a virtual KISS. <3 This is GREAT!! That’s the kind of build I am looking for! The only thing that’s missing from it would something off GIMP Paint Studio (GPS) . That could really help me out for digital painting but after doing some digging and getting in contact with pro artist that have used; I got informed that was developed by a team of Japanese and then the whole project disappeared and that code was not accepted by the GIMP official team. I saw some old speed panting videos on Youtube with GIMP 2.4 and it looks great! If there are plugins and scripts that allows me to get similar workflow, that would be fabulous!

@wallace, you brought some interesting points and some that never crossed my mind. But come on dude :> you know it would be amazing if somehow you can get quick RSS :keybd type type updates on your plugins or scripts. Now you have mentioned about customizing GIMP to your own way, when you said that, can I say when I have found the plugins, scripts, adjusted the look, theme, brushes the whole works in which say This GIMP is suitable for all digital illustrator. Can I create like an .exe install and then send that to my friends and have them in stall it on their comp and that they would get the exact same package that I am using? O_o

I'm not sure what OS your friend and you are using, but they would have to be compatible or the same.
I believe that your friend would have to install the same version of Gimp. Then you would need to provide him/her with a copy of you entire Gimp User folders and files. These folders and file copies would have to be "swopped out" with the folders and files the were installed originally.
I think the only exception would be "G'Mic" and "Python Support", or any other separate additions to Gimp that needs an installer. Unless your version of Gimp already has these additions as part of it's build.
There may be someone here that could better answer this question, and give you more information about this process. I may have neglected to mention something important that you would need to do.
You might want to think about starting a new topic/thread, and ask this question in that new posting. To get a clearer idea of what needs to be done for you to accomplish this for your friend.

Awesome!! I'll definitely do that!!

Have you thought about this one: http://registry.gimp.org/node/27656???

I tried that but doesn't work with the latest installment of GIMP 2.8.10 which is what Partha's installer I'm currently using thanks to paynekj. So far, I'm going to give it a go and if I needed anything additional I'll ask around the community. Because I am planning on making better video tutorial for GIMP. Especially for digital painting and graphics.

It works for me but leave a reply on the registry for this.