Uploaded September 2022 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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In this GIMP Basics tutorial, I show you how to add a transparent gradient to your image or composition! This is a very easy technique that requires some of GIMP's built-in tools and features, including the gradient tool and layer mask.

Once you've created the transparent gradient effect, you can then export the image with the transparent gradient - which I also show you how to do in this tutorial. So, this is a sort-of bonus two-for-one video! You will learn how to export the photo to a PNG, which supports transparent backgrounds.

GIMP is a free photo editor most similar to Photoshop or Affinity Photo.

0:00 - Intro
0:27 - Open a Photo Into GIMP
0:44 - Add Alpha Channel to Your Image
1:10 - Add a Layer Mask to Your Image
1:47 - Draw a Gradient on Your Layer Mask
2:52 - Reposition Your Gradient
4:50 - Apply the Gradient
5:26 - Export Image with Transparency (PNG, GIF, TIF, WebP)
6:21 - Final Thoughts

Visit our website for more text and video tutorials:
daviesmediadesign.com/tutorials

Enroll in Our GIMP Photo Editing Masterclass:
udemy.com/course/gimp-photo-editing/?couponCode=FINALGIMPSUMMERSALE

Want to make your GIMP theme look like mine? Check out this GIMP tutorial article:
daviesmediadesign.com/customize-gimp-2-10-user-interface

See how you can help out the GIMP Team:
gimp.org/develop

Download the latest version of GIMP:
gimp.org/downloads

Download the Photo Used in This Tutorial:
unsplash.com/photos/ICE__bo2Vws

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#GIMPTutorial #TransparentGradient #PhotoEditing