Lightroom presets are one of the easiest ways to transform your photos with a single click. They’re like ready-made filters, but much more customizable. Whether you’re editing on desktop or mobile, installing and using presets can speed up your workflow and help you find your unique editing style.
What Are Lightroom Presets?
A Lightroom preset is a collection of saved editing adjustments—exposure, contrast, color balance, tone curves, and more—that you can apply instantly to your photos.
- For Beginners: Presets offer a quick way to get professional-looking edits without deep technical knowledge.
- For Professionals: They act as a starting point, making editing faster and more consistent across a shoot or project.
How to Install Presets on Lightroom Desktop
- Download Presets → Presets usually come in
.xmpformat (new) or.lrtemplateformat (older). - Open Lightroom Classic or CC (Desktop).
- Go to Develop Module → Look for the Presets panel on the left side.
- Click “+” Icon → Choose “Import Presets.”
- Select Files → Navigate to where your presets are saved and click import.
Your presets will now appear in the Presets panel, ready to apply with one click.
How to Install Presets on Lightroom Mobile
- Download Preset DNG Files (usually provided with mobile packs).
- Open Lightroom Mobile App.
- Import DNG File → Add the file just like you would a normal photo.
- Tap on the DNG Photo → Open editing options.
- Tap the three dots (…) → Choose “Create Preset.”
- Save with a Name → Now you can apply it to any photo.
How to Use Presets Effectively
- Apply a preset as a starting point, then fine-tune exposure, white balance, and colors.
- Organize your presets into folders (Portraits, Landscapes, Weddings, etc.) for quick access.
- Don’t rely on presets 100%—adjust them to fit each photo’s unique lighting and mood.
Final Thoughts
Presets can transform your editing game. Whether you want bright and airy looks, cinematic vibes, or bold contrasts, there’s a preset for you. Once installed, you’ll wonder how you ever edited without them.
✅ Want to try Lightroom with presets?
Download your free trial of Adobe Lightroom and explore how presets can make your photos shine instantly.







