A beginner’s Lightroom editing workflow, step by step
Editing in a consistent order saves time and improves results. A simple Lightroom workflow from import to export.
Lightroom can feel overwhelming. Editing in the same order every time keeps it simple and consistent.
1. Import and organize
Import into folders by date and event. Add keywords and flag or star your best images as you review.
2. Profile and lens corrections
Choose a camera profile such as Adobe Color or Camera Standard, then enable lens corrections and remove chromatic aberration.
3. Straighten and crop
Fix horizons and verticals, then crop to strengthen composition.
4. White balance
Use the eyedropper on something neutral, or adjust temperature and tint by eye.
5. Tone
Set exposure, then contrast. Pull down highlights and lift shadows. Set whites and blacks so the histogram fills the range.
6. Presence and color
Use texture and clarity sparingly. Adjust vibrance before saturation. Refine individual colors with HSL.
7. Local adjustments
Use masks to brighten faces, darken skies or add focus to the subject.
8. Detail and export
Apply noise reduction and sharpening, then export in sRGB at the right size for its destination.
