How to Make Centered Circular Selection in GIMP

Creating a perfectly centered circular selection in GIMP requires using the Ellipse Select tool combined with specific constraints. By default, the tool draws an unconstrained oval from the top-left corner of the bounding box. This guide explains how to lock the aspect ratio to a 1:1 circle and force the selection to expand outward from a designated center point using either the Tool Options panel or keyboard shortcuts.

Using the Tool Options dialog is the most reliable method because it prevents keyboard shortcut conflicts with GIMP's selection modes (such as adding or subtracting from an existing selection).

  1. Select the Ellipse Select Tool from the Toolbox, or press the shortcut key E.
  2. Locate the Tool Options panel (typically positioned beneath the main Toolbox on the left).
  3. Under the tool settings, check the box labeled Expand from center.
  4. Check the box labeled Fixed.
  5. Ensure the drop-down menu next to "Fixed" is set to Aspect ratio, and verify the text box below it reads 1:1.
  6. Place your cursor on the exact point on your canvas where the center of the circle should be.
  7. Click and drag outward. The selection will remain a perfect circle centered directly on your initial click point. Release the mouse button when it reaches the desired size.

Method 2: Using Dynamic Keyboard Shortcuts

If you prefer to keep default settings and modify your selection on the fly, you can use keyboard modifiers while dragging.

  1. Activate the Ellipse Select Tool (E).
  2. Place your mouse cursor at the desired center point on the canvas.
  3. Click and begin dragging the mouse slightly to initialize the selection. (Note: Do not press the modifier keys before clicking, or GIMP will switch to "Add" or "Subtract" selection modes).
  4. While continuing to hold down the left mouse button, press and hold both Ctrl and Shift (or Cmd and Shift on macOS).
    • Ctrl forces the selection to expand from the center point.
    • Shift constrains the shape to a 1:1 aspect ratio circle.
  5. Drag until the circle reaches the required radius.
  6. Release the left mouse button first, and then release the Ctrl and Shift keys to finalize the selection.