How to Install Showfoto on Linux Mint 21/20

Showfoto is a powerful, standalone image editor that’s part of the digiKam suite of open-source photo management applications. It is developed primarily for Linux-based operating systems, with support for a wide range of image formats and functionality. Here’s a detailed introduction to the features and capabilities of Showfoto:

Key Features:

  • Versatile Image Editing: Showfoto provides users with a plethora of image editing tools, including color adjustments, filters, cropping, resizing, and red-eye correction. It also supports layering, allowing for advanced and non-destructive editing.
  • Efficient Batch Processing: Showfoto enables users to perform batch operations, such as renaming, resizing, and applying filters or transformations to multiple images simultaneously. This helps streamline workflow and save time.
  • RAW File Support: Showfoto can handle RAW file formats from various camera manufacturers, allowing users to import, edit, and export high-quality images without compromising on quality.
  • Geotagging and Metadata Editing: Users can easily edit image metadata, such as IPTC, XMP, and EXIF information. Additionally, Showfoto supports geotagging features, enabling users to associate GPS coordinates with images and display them on maps.
  • Plugin Support: Showfoto’s functionality can be extended through plugins. This includes support for additional file formats, editing tools, and more.
  • Customizable User Interface: Users can tailor the appearance and layout of Showfoto’s interface to suit their preferences, creating a personalized and comfortable workspace.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Showfoto is available for Linux, Windows, and macOS, ensuring that users can access and utilize its powerful features on their preferred platform.

The following guide will demonstrate how to install and use Showfoto on Linux Mint 21 or Linux Mint 20 releases with the command line and default apt repository and some additional tips to get started.

Section 1: Install Showfoto

Step 1: Update Linux Mint

Before installing Showfoto, it is essential to ensure that your Linux Mint system is up-to-date. This not only prevents potential issues during the installation process but also maintains the overall stability and security of your system.

Open the terminal and enter the following command to update your system:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This command first updates the package index with sudo apt update, ensuring that your system has the latest package information. It then proceeds to upgrade your system’s packages to the newest versions with sudo apt upgrade.

Step 2: Install Showfoto

Showfoto is available in the default Linux Mint/Ubuntu repository, which simplifies the installation process.

To install Showfoto, run the following command in the terminal:

sudo apt install showfoto

This command installs Showfoto along with its dependencies, making the image editing utility available for use on your system.

Section 2: Launch Showfoto

With Showfoto successfully installed on your system, it’s time to launch the application and start exploring its features. There are multiple ways to open Showfoto, and we’ll discuss them below.

Step 1: Launch Showfoto via Terminal

One way to open Showfoto is by using the terminal. To do this, type the following command and press Enter:

showfoto

This command tells the system to execute the Showfoto application. The program will open in a new window, and you can begin using it for your image editing needs.

Step 2: Launch Showfoto via Desktop

For those who prefer using the desktop environment, launching Showfoto is just as easy. Follow the path below to open Showfoto through your desktop menu:

Taskbar > Graphics > Showfoto

By navigating to the “Graphics” category in your taskbar’s application menu, you will find the Showfoto icon. Click on it to launch the application.

Example of Showfoto on Linux Mint taskbar:

launch showfoto from linux mint taskbar

Section 3: Getting Started with Showfoto on Linux Mint

This section will provide valuable tips and insights to help you get started with Showfoto on Linux Mint. These recommendations will cover the application’s general usage, customization, and other essential aspects.

General Tips

  • Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with Showfoto’s keyboard shortcuts to improve your productivity and efficiency. Some common shortcuts include:
    • Ctrl + O: Open a file
    • Ctrl + S: Save the current file
    • Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action
    • Ctrl + Shift + Z: Redo the last action
  • Zoom and Pan: Use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out of images quickly. Hold the middle mouse button or spacebar while dragging the mouse to pan around the image.
  • Sidebars: Showfoto features various sidebars that provide quick access to essential tools and options. Use the buttons on the top right corner of the application to toggle the visibility of the sidebars.

Customizations

  • Interface Theme: Customize the appearance of Showfoto to suit your preferences. Navigate to Settings > Configure Showfoto > Appearance and select your desired theme and color scheme.
  • Toolbar Customization: Showfoto allows you to customize the toolbar according to your needs. Right-click on the toolbar and select “Configure Toolbars” to add, remove, or rearrange the available tools.
  • Shortcut Customization: To further enhance your workflow, you can modify existing keyboard shortcuts or create new ones. Go to Settings > Configure Shortcuts to access the shortcut settings.

Other Tips

  • Batch Processing: Use Showfoto’s batch processing capabilities to apply transformations, filters, and other operations to multiple images at once. Access the Batch Queue Manager by clicking the “BQM” button on the toolbar or pressing Ctrl + B.
  • RAW File Editing: Showfoto can handle RAW files from various camera manufacturers. Simply open the RAW file in Showfoto, and the application will automatically apply the necessary processing to display the image correctly.
  • Plugins: Expand Showfoto’s functionality with additional plugins. To install new plugins, go to Settings > Configure Showfoto > Plugins, and select the desired plugins from the list. Some plugins might require extra dependencies to be installed.

Following these tips and recommendations, you can optimize your Showfoto experience and make the most of its powerful image editing capabilities on Linux Mint.

Example of Showfoto once open on a Linux Mint desktop:

example of showfoto on linux mint once opened

Section 4: Additional Commands & Tips

This section will discuss how to remove Showfoto from your system.

How to Remove (Uninstall) Showfoto

If you find that Showfoto is no longer needed or if you want to free up some disk space, you can easily uninstall the application. To remove Showfoto from your Linux Mint system, follow these simple steps:

  1. Open the terminal.
  2. Enter the following command to uninstall Showfoto:
sudo apt remove showfoto

This command instructs the package manager to remove Showfoto and its associated files from your system. The sudo prefix grants the necessary administrative permissions, while apt remove tells the package manager to uninstall the specified application.

Once the command is executed, Showfoto will be removed from your system. If you ever wish to reinstall it, simply follow the installation steps provided earlier in this guide.

Conclusion: Installing Showfoto on Linux Mint

In summary, installing Showfoto on Linux Mint is a straightforward process that enables users to access a powerful and versatile image editing tool. With its rich feature set, including support for RAW files, batch processing, and numerous plugins, Showfoto is a valuable asset for photographers, designers, and anyone needing a robust image editor.

Additional Resources and Links

To further enhance your Showfoto experience and expand your knowledge, we’ve compiled a list of useful resources and links. These sources will provide you with additional information, documentation, and community support:

  • digiKam Official Website: The official website for the digiKam project includes Showfoto as a standalone image editor.
  • digiKam Wiki: A comprehensive wiki that contains valuable information about digiKam, Showfoto, and related projects.
  • digiKam Mailing List: Subscribe to the digiKam mailing list to receive updates, news, and connect with other users and developers.

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