CMYK Output in GIMP
The GIMP, or GNU Image Manipulation Program, is a free and open source raster image editor available for Linux, Windows and Mac OS X computers. For on-screen editing and simple printing, the GIMP works well as a substitute for Photoshop and other professional-grade image editors. However, it lacks full CMYK functionality, making it difficult to output accurate separations for commercial or high-end consumer printing.
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CMYK Versus RGB
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Computers natively use the RGB color space, which uses red, green and blue pixels to display other shades. Printers use CYMK color spaces, which mix cyan, yellow, magenta and key black inks. The RGB color space can show a wider range of tones than CMYK. This means that printing an image directly from an RGB file can result in muddy results or loss of detail. Converting the file to CMYK before printing allows you to edit it for best results.
Separate
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The GIMP lacks CMYK functionality as of version 2.6.11 and this publication in September 2011. However, using a plug-in called Separate can provide partial support. Once installed, this program offers duotone, proofing and CMYK separations. You can select from a range of color profiles to match your monitor and output devices. Separate produces an image with CMYK separations on different layers, which you can then export as a TIFF file in the CMYK color space. Separate allows you to include ICC profiles with your image, so that recipients can display it using the right settings.
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Limitations
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Unlike commercial graphics programs, the GIMP does not allow you live editing of CMYK images in the same way you can edit an RGB image. Make sure you complete all changes to the file before using Separate to create CMYK separations. You can make individual changes in black and white on the separation layers, but it's hard to see what the final output will look like. Select “make CMYK pseudo-composite” to add a composite view to the separations. This view isn't strictly accurate, but helps you look for significant errors before sending a file to print.
Considerations
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While Separate gives the GIMP enough CMYK functionality for basic printing jobs, it doesn't offer the flexibility or accuracy of professional image editors. GIMP works best for users who primarily work with printers that can interpret RGB files or who make images only for onscreen display. If you need to send CMYK files to a printer on a regular basis, choose an editor with a wider range of CMYK features.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
