Image processing is a technique used to enhance or analyze images through various algorithms and methods. It involves manipulating digital images to improve their quality, extract useful information, or prepare them for further analysis. Common applications include adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance, as well as removing noise or blurring. This field combines elements from computer science, mathematics, and engineering to develop tools and software that can process images efficiently. Techniques such as image filtering, edge detection, and image segmentation are often employed to identify patterns or features within images, making it essential in areas like medical imaging, photography, and computer vision.