Adobe Photoshop vs Lightroom Classic | What One Is Right For You?

Summary

In this video, the creator compares Lightroom Classic and Photoshop CC to help photographers choose the right software for their needs. Lightroom Classic is ideal for fast, batch photo editing and managing large volumes of images, offering an efficient non-destructive workflow. Photoshop CC, on the other hand, excels in detailed, high-precision editing with tools like content-aware fill and advanced layer manipulation. The video explains the strengths, weaknesses, and specific use cases for each program, helping users decide which is best suited for their photography or design workflow.

Takeaways

• 😀 Lightroom Classic is ideal for catalog-based workflows, making it perfect for photographers working with a large number of photos at once, such as event or wedding photographers.
• 😀 Lightroom Classic offers non-destructive photo editing, meaning the original raw photo remains intact while adjustments are made.
• 😀 Photoshop CC is great for intricate, detailed editing like skin smoothing, background manipulation, and object removal using tools like the Clone tool and Content Aware Fill.
• 😀 Lightroom Classic allows for quick editing and bulk processing, including easy batch export with preset adjustments, making it faster for large-scale editing tasks.
• 😀 Photoshop CC operates on a single image at a time and is destructive, meaning edits are directly applied to the image, so you need to be careful when saving files.
• 😀 Layers in Photoshop enable non-destructive editing, allowing users to adjust, add, or subtract elements without affecting the base photo, unlike Lightroom, which works on a single layer.
• 😀 Lightroom Classic is faster for editing photos and applying global adjustments like exposure and color grading, while Photoshop offers far more creative control but requires more time.
• 😀 If you're a web designer, UI designer, or graphic designer, Photoshop is the better choice because it provides a wide array of design tools beyond photo editing.
• 😀 Both Lightroom Classic and Photoshop now support masking, but Photoshop still offers more advanced masking tools with layer-based precision for tasks like cutouts and complex adjustments.
• 😀 If you want to quickly edit large numbers of photos with basic adjustments, Lightroom Classic is your best bet, but if you need detailed editing and creative enhancements, Photoshop is the way to go.

Q & A

What is the primary difference between Lightroom Classic and Photoshop CC?

The main difference is that Lightroom Classic is a catalog-based photo editing software designed for batch processing, quick edits, and large exports. Photoshop CC, on the other hand, is more focused on detailed, creative edits, working with layers, and offers advanced tools for intricate adjustments like retouching and adding text.

Which software is better for editing a large number of photos quickly?

Lightroom Classic is better suited for editing large quantities of photos quickly. It allows for bulk edits, the use of presets, and the ability to copy and paste edits between images. It's ideal for workflows like event or wedding photography.

Can Lightroom Classic handle detailed retouching and photo manipulation?

Lightroom Classic is not designed for detailed retouching or advanced photo manipulation. While it can perform basic edits like exposure adjustments and color grading, more intricate tasks like skin smoothing, cloning, and adding text are better suited to Photoshop CC.

What is meant by 'non-destructive editing' in Lightroom Classic?

Non-destructive editing in Lightroom Classic means that the original image file is not altered during the editing process. Edits are applied to a virtual copy, so the raw photo remains intact. This allows for more flexibility in adjusting edits later without permanently changing the original photo.

How does the layer system work in Photoshop compared to Lightroom Classic?

Photoshop uses layers to allow more flexible, non-destructive editing. You can work on multiple layers, adjusting opacity, and adding or removing elements without affecting the underlying layers. Lightroom Classic, however, does not use layers, meaning all edits are applied directly to the single image you're working on.

What type of photographer would benefit most from using Lightroom Classic?

Lightroom Classic is ideal for photographers who handle large volumes of photos, such as event photographers, wedding photographers, or anyone who needs to work efficiently with catalogs and apply similar edits across many images at once.

When should a photographer switch from Lightroom Classic to Photoshop CC?

A photographer should switch to Photoshop CC when they need to do more detailed and creative work, such as skin retouching, background manipulation, adding text, or working with multiple layers. Photoshop is also better for tasks like fine art photography and graphic design.

What tools does Photoshop offer that Lightroom Classic does not?

Photoshop offers tools for detailed retouching, such as the Clone Tool, Healing Brush, Liquify tool, and advanced masking features. It also supports layer-based editing, making it easier to work non-destructively. Lightroom Classic lacks these advanced tools and focuses more on efficiency for batch editing.

Can Lightroom Classic and Photoshop CC be used together in a workflow?

Yes, Lightroom Classic and Photoshop CC can be used together. Many professionals use Lightroom for quick edits and organizing their photos, then switch to Photoshop for detailed retouching and creative work. The two programs complement each other in a professional editing workflow.

What is the benefit of using Lightroom Classic for exporting large batches of photos?

Lightroom Classic excels at exporting large batches of photos quickly and efficiently. You can apply presets or adjust settings across many images and export them all at once, saving significant time compared to Photoshop, which would require more manual steps or the use of actions.