Editing Photos in Lightroom

Prepare your computer and launch Adobe Lightroom. Ensure your monitor is accurately calibrated for color-critical work.

Use the Library module to import the photos you wish to edit into Adobe Lightroom. You can drag and drop files or use the import button.

Review the imported photos and use flags, stars, or colors to rate and select the images you want to edit.

If applicable, apply presets to your selected photos for a consistent look or as a starting point for further edits.

In the Develop module, start with basic adjustments such as exposure, contrast, highlights, shadows, white balance, and clarity.

Continue refining your image with detailed adjustments like tone curve, HSL/Color, split toning, and sharpening.

Use tools such as the adjustment brush, graduated filter, and radial filter to make local corrections to specific areas of the image.

Apply lens corrections to fix common issues like distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting.

Review all edits and compare the before and after to ensure the photo meets your artistic vision.

Export the final edited photo with the appropriate settings for the intended use, such as print or web.

Before starting the editing process, it's advisable to back up the original photos to prevent any loss due to accidental overwrites or technical issues.

Lightroom's editing is non-destructive, meaning the original image files remain unchanged. You can always revert to the original photo if needed.

Taking regular breaks during the editing process can help maintain a fresh perspective and reduce eye strain.