MacPorts is a free Mac utility that allows you to download and install programs from a library of open source software through a Terminal window. When you download a program, MacPorts automatically downloads and installs all of its dependencies as well. In most cases, this process takes minutes to complete. However, GIMP has dozens of dependencies and can require hours to install through MacPorts. Although the program appears to hang, it is still working.
Installing GIMP With MacPorts
- After installing MacPorts, you can download and install GIMP and its dependencies by opening a Terminal window and typing "sudo port install gimp." As GIMP installs, the window displays the name of each dependency as it is downloaded and installed. When MacPorts is finished installing GIMP, you will see the prompt "Cleaning GIMP." You can then find the GIMP icon under the "MacPorts" folder in the "Applications" menu.
Alternative
- You do not need to use MacPorts to install GIMP. If you do not want to wait for all of the dependencies to install, you can download an installation utility from the Gimp on OS X website (see Resources) that includes all needed items in one package. After downloading the package, you can install it by double-clicking it to mount the disc image and dragging the GIMP shortcut to the "Applications" folder.
About GIMP
- GIMP is a free program that allows you to create and edit images. It is positioned as an alternative to costly commercial software such as Adobe Photoshop. In addition to the Mac OS X version, GIMP is available for a variety of operating systems, including Windows and Linux. GIMP uses an interface that places each tool in its own separate window.
Other MacPorts Programs
- GIMP is one of 13,331 programs available through MacPorts as of the date of publication. The selection of programs includes games, programming language compilers, utilities for personal organization, media players and Web development software. You can search the programs available on MacPorts by visiting the official website and typing terms in the search field.
