Consistency is a paramount factor in digital photography. It is especially crucial for professional photographers to maintain a cohesive portfolio. Luckily, modern photo editing software technologies provide powerful tools that allow users to apply a predefined set of edits to their images with a single click.
Adobe Lightroom (or just Lightroom for short) is a professional-grade image-enhancing program renowned particularly for its extensive number of predefined adjustments. These sets of adjustments were designed by professional photographers and cater to a wide range of photographic needs and goals. This Lightroom presets guide explains how to apply pre-designed modifications effectively to achieve incredible results.
What Are Lightroom Presets?
Lightroom presets are sets of previously defined edits applied to a photo in a single click. Using Lightroom presets helps you transform your visuals’ look and feel in seconds. They are recipes for adding a specific flavor to your snapshots in seconds.
Whether editing portraits, landscapes, or urban shots, achieving the desired aesthetics and conveying the message is easy. Presets are essential for beginners willing to apply edits quickly. On the other hand, professional photographers use this feature to maintain a cohesive look across a batch of images when working on big projects. They also help create a polished portfolio and sustain brand recognition.
How do Lightroom presets work? A collection of adjustments applied to various editing settings within the program. These settings include everything from basic adjustments like exposure and contrast to more complex modifications like tone curves, color grading, and sharpening. When you apply a preset of your choice, the program automatically adjusts all the relevant sliders to the predefined value.
Unlike filters in Lightroom, presets can be customized to suit specific needs. After applying a preset, you can tweak individual settings. Ensure they fit the specific image you are currently working on. For instance, if an image is darker than you need, adjust the exposure slider to make the image brighter.
How to Install Lightroom Presets
- Download the files. The desktop version typically utilizes XMP or LRTEMPLATE format. The mobile version uses DNG.
- Launch the program on your PC and move to the Develop module. If you use a mobile version, simply open the app.
- For the desktop version, find the Presets section. Select the + icon next to the Presets panel and select “Import Presets.” Locate the downloaded presets on your computer and import your files. In the mobile version, the DNG files are imported similarly to photos. Open the imported DNG file, tap the three-dot menu in the top right, and select “Create Preset.” Name and save it.
- To access your presets, select the Presets panel in the desktop version. Lightroom Mobile, in turn, keeps them under the Presets tab.
How to Use Presets in Lightroom for Different Types of Photos
Portraits
The main goal of portrait retouching is to enhance the model’s features while maintaining a natural look. Portrait modifications usually focus on reducing shadows and enhancing warm tones. You can also add a subtle vignette to attract the viewers’ attention to your subject’s face. Adjust exposure and clarity to ensure the details are right for each image.
Landscapes
Vivid and dynamic contrasts are typical for this genre. Landscape photography adjustments typically boost saturation, enhance shadows, and add clarity. Ensure the details in the natural scene are properly emphasized. If the image looks too vibrant, tone the saturation down and readjust the white balance according to the intended mood.
Urban and Street Photography
This genre requires adjustments to add a gritty feel or emphasize specific color tones, particularly blues and oranges. Play with shadows and highlights to create a dramatic effect. Once the changes are applied, customize exposure and sharpness. It can help maintain the detail in the architectural elements and street scenes.
Black and White Photography
Enhance contrast and texture to bring out the depth and mood of the image. Adjust the tones to ensure a balanced grayscale. Emphasize the interplay of lights and shadows. When done with the edits, fine-tune the contrast and clarity to highlight key elements in the composition to retain the emotional impact.
How to Create Your Own Presets
Step 1: Edit a Picture
Upload an image in the software. The desktop version is preferable. Edit your file as you normally would. It should be an example of an image you usually work with. Ensure the versatility of your settings across various similar pictures. Adjust exposure, contrast, white balance, and color grading.
Step 2: Save Your Settings
Once satisfied with the look, save your adjustments as a preset. In the Develop module, go to the Presets panel on the left, click the + icon, and select “Create Preset.” Name your preset. Select the settings to include. Include the repetitive settings. Parameters like exposure and cropping usually vary from shot to shot, so including them in presets will be inconvenient.
Step 3: Organize and Test
Organize your newly created preset in a folder. This step is essential if you plan to create more presets in the future. Test the adjustments on different images to ensure their versatility. If needed, go back and readjust the settings.
Conclusion
Lightroom presets save your time and help maintain a cohesive look across your images. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to quickly and effectively enhance your pictures with these high-end tools. As you continue experimenting and refining your style, you will find that presets are indispensable for achieving the polished, professional results that define successful photography.
Also Read: Photography with the AI Ease Headshot Generator and AI Passport Photo Solutions
