Add/Remove Objects (Cloning) in Photos Using Gimp Free Photo Editing Software

Since I posted this before and after picture, I have had a lot of people ask me how I did it.  Here's the tutorial (and I promise this is the last time you will see this picture of Tottie!):

1)  Start by cropping the picture.  I don't think you need a photo to explain that :)

2)  Use the "Free Select" tool to select the portion of the photo that will replace the object you want to remove (or the portion that you will clone).

3)  After you have selected your portion to clone, copy, then pasted it into the picture (it creates a new layer).

4)  If need be, use the "Flip" tool to turn the selection around.

5)  Use the "Move" tool to move the cloned area into it's new position.  Once the area is in position, you'll need to click somewhere else on the photo to anchor it into place (you'll see a little anchor next to your cursor).

6)  Now is where the painstaking process begins.  You need to get rid of all the extra stuff around the new cloned area and make it blend in.  For the bigger spaces you can repeat steps 1-5.  For the smaller spaces you'll have to use the "Clone" tool or brush.

7)  Once the entire area is cloned out, use the "Clone", "Blur/Sharpen", and "Smudge" tools to make the hard edges and any shadows blend in.

Before and After: