It has a layers system with layer groups and layer masks. Like GIMP, Krita has basic editing tools like a Transform Tool, Crop Tool, “smart patch” tool for basic spot removal, paint tools (of course), and path and selection tools. I’ll start this assessment off with a quick list of what Krita has in common with GIMP. Like GIMP, Krita (pictured above) has a transform tool and more for basic photo editing. As someone who definitely CANNOT paint, digitally or otherwise, I do not feel I’m qualified at this time to fully assess digital painting software – which is what Krita primarily is.

Plus, when you look at layer adjustments and RAW processing in Krita more closely, they’re pretty basic in terms of functionality and, in some cases, slow in terms of performance.īefore I go any further – this is a quick disclaimer and reminder that I’m only analyzing Krita’s photo editing capabilities compared to GIMP’s, and not analyzing Krita as a program in its entirety.

So, now that these features are in Krita, does this make Krita better at photo editing than GIMP?Īlthough it is quite a breakthrough that Krita was able to introduce all these advanced features before GIMP could achieve the same feat, the program still has some hindrances when it comes to certain common photo editing tasks. These are all features GIMP users have been waiting on for a long time.

The Krita website says the software is made for “concept art, texture and matte painters, illustrations and comics.” However, Krita has also managed to incorporate some more advanced photo editing features like adjustment layers, CMYK support, multi-layer selection, and the ability to open RAW images.

Over the last several years, Krita has cemented its place in the free software world by creating a feature-rich digital painting platform that’s geared towards artists.

Krita photo editing