Tutorial: Creating a Chrome Ball with GIMP 3.2
Since I wrote the original tutorial , GIMP has evolved, so I've created an updated version that makes use of the new features. The most important new features are that you can now use linked layers, layer groups and non-destructive effects. This tutorial discripes how to create this chrome ball with GIMP. First of all you need a equirectangular panorama . If you don't have one you can get one from HDRI Haven . For this tutorial I took this one: https://hdrihaven.com/hdri/?h=bell_park_pier This time I chose the 2k version because it is faster to process. Of cause you can use other resolutions if you like. Now create a new image with 2048x1024px and delete the background layer: Then open the image in GIMP with "File -> Open as Link Layer..." and duplicate the layer. The "Open as Link Layer" gives you the possibillity to change the image later. This is the background layer on which the chrome ball sits. We now need a second layer for the ball itself...