Adobe Lightroom vs Lightroom classic

The use of Adobe Lightroom and Lightroom Classic is quite common among photographers, but their features and functionality differ. Lightroom is a cloud-based platform that provides fast syncing and mobile accessibility, while Lightroom Classic is a desktop-oriented tool popular for local storage and detailed editing features. If you need to quickly enhance your photos with Lightroom presets, Lightroom CC is a simple and beginner-friendly option. On the other hand, Lightroom Classic is for people who want more control over their photos and like to use features like camera profile in Lightroom Sony and HSL editor.

A common issue with Lightroom Classic is that you sometimes get “can’t edit image in Photoshop from Lightroom Classic” or “Lightroom Classic will not launch” errors, which make troubleshooting necessary. Organizing subfolders in Lightroom CC is more straightforward, while Lightroom Classic requires more manual effort. If you need to edit raw car photos or scan film negatives directly into Lightroom, both tools have different uses which depend on your workflow.

A Little Background on Adobe

Adobe is a globally renowned software company known for its creative tools and applications. Launched in 1982, Adobe revolutionized the design and photo editing industry with its flagship product, Photoshop. Since then, Adobe has launched other tools such as Adobe Lightroom and Lightroom Classic, which have become an essential part of the workspace for photographers and editors. Lightroom’s unique selling point is its user-friendly interface and extensive library of Lightroom presets, which are useful for both beginners and professionals.

Another worth mentioning contribution from Adobe is its AI-based features that offer more advanced and automated workflows through tools like “adaptive portrait enhance vs polished”. Adobe products like Lightroom and Photoshop offer photographers a lot of flexibility. If you’re looking for an alternative to Lightroom or want to print photos with the best export settings, Adobe’s tools provide unmatched solutions. Today, Adobe is not just a software provider but an integral part of the creative industry.

Did the Name of the Desktop Version of Lightroom Change?

Yes, Adobe has made significant changes to the name and branding of Lightroom that can be confusing for users. Previously, the desktop-focused software was simply called “Lightroom”, but it’s now called Lightroom Classic. Adobe made this change so that it could differentiate the tool from its cloud-based version, which is now known as “Lightroom”. Lightroom Classic is for desktop and local storage-focused photographers, while Lightroom CC is a cloud-first platform that focuses more on portability and mobile workflows.

Despite the name change, users still refer to both tools as “Lightroom”, which sometimes creates confusion. This is why people compare “Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic” so that they can select the best version for their case. Adobe changed the branding so that more people could adopt the transition to cloud-based photo editing, but for professionals Adobe Lightroom Classic holds a different importance, especially for features that are not yet available in the cloud version.

The Naming Headache

There has been a lot of confusion over the name and versions of Adobe’s Lightroom software, which has become a “naming headache” for users. When Adobe named its desktop-based version Lightroom Classic and rebranded the cloud-based version as just “Lightroom”, many users found it difficult to understand which version would be better for them. Previously, there was only one version of Lightroom, but now both platforms have different focuses and features. The name change becomes even more confusing for people who were already using Lightroom Classic and assumed it to be the cloud version after the new updates.

Many people still refer to Lightroom Classic as just “Lightroom”, which can create technical misunderstandings. This confusion forces beginners to compare “Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic” to know which version is better suited for their workflow. Adobe’s name-changing move was for clear communication, but in the end many users are still confused between new and old versions. To avoid the naming headache, Adobe’s official tutorials and resources can be very helpful.

What Are the Differences Between Lightroom and Lightroom Classic?

The biggest difference between Lightroom and Lightroom Classic is their design and functionality. Lightroom, which is cloud-based, is designed for modern users who want to sync and access their photos across multiple devices like mobile, tablet, and desktop. Its interface is quite simplified and beginner-friendly, and it supports features like adaptive portrait enhancer and AI Denoise. On the other hand, Lightroom Classic is a desktop-oriented software that provides more advanced tools and features, like HSL editor, softproofing options, and extensive customization of Lightroom presets. Lightroom Classic is for photographers who store their photos locally and need more detailed edits.

There are also differences in performance and workflow. Lightroom is perfect for fast syncing and quick editing, whereas Lightroom Classic demands more time and technical expertise for advanced edits. Lightroom’s cloud-first approach requires more storage and a subscription, whereas Lightroom Classic relies on local storage. If you want flexible and mobile editing for travel photography, Lightroom CC is an ideal option. But if you’re editing raw car photos, film scans, or volume-based editing, Lightroom Classic is a more powerful tool.

Let’s Start With the Things Lightroom CC and Lightroom Classic Have in Common

There are some basic similarities between Lightroom CC and Lightroom Classic that make both tools part of the same family. The primary function of both versions is photo editing and organization, which help photographers enhance their images. Lightroom presets can be used in both versions, which help you quickly edit and style your photos. Both platforms also have advanced editing tools like exposure, contrast, white balance and HSL (Hue, Saturation, Luminance) editing options, which help give you precise control.

Another common feature is raw photo support, which gives you the option to make high-quality image edits in both versions. If you need camera profile in Lightroom or AI Denoise tools, you get these features in both versions. Lightroom Classic is a little more complex, but in both you can use collections, keywords, and flags to organize images, which streamlines your workflow. If you need to access the same library from multiple devices, Lightroom CC provides you with cloud-based storage, whereas in Lightroom Classic you have to rely on local storage.

So How to Tell Them Apart at First Glance? The Name, and the Logo.

Lightroom CC and Lightroom Classic are pretty easy to distinguish if you pay attention to the name and logo. The first and most obvious difference is their name. If you have Lightroom CC, it is the cloud-based version, giving you the option of syncing and multi-device access. On the other hand, if you have Lightroom Classic, it is the traditional desktop version designed for local storage and advanced photo editing.

The logo is also an important identifier. The Lightroom CC logo is usually a simple square with a gradient effect, while Lightroom Classic has a more traditional and classic style, reflecting its desktop-oriented nature. These differences are helpful for users who want to quickly decide which version will be best for them, based on whether they need a cloud solution or a more in-depth editing experience.

Why Use Lightroom Classic vs Lightroom CC?

If you want full control of your photo editing and primarily follow a desktop-based workflow, Lightroom Classic is your best choice. It’s ideal for photographers who prefer to store their photos on local storage, as Lightroom Classic’s performance is more powerful when working with large volumes of images. If you want complex editing features, like the HSL editor or soft proofing (black to white change), Lightroom Classic’s interface and tools give you more flexibility and precision.

Or you’re working with raw car photos, film scanning, or high-end portrait photography, Lightroom Classic’s advanced camera profiles and plugins support give you extra editing tools and fine-tuning options. If you need to organize your photos into subfolders or want high-quality print exports, Lightroom Classic has more customization options that optimize your workflow.

Photos Stored

If you prefer to store your photos in local storage rather than in the cloud, Lightroom Classic is the ideal tool for you. In Lightroom Classic, you can save your images directly to your computer or external hard drive, giving you full control and privacy. Compared to cloud storage, you don’t need an internet connection when using local storage, and you can easily apply Lightroom presets to your files without interruption. It’s perfect for photographers who manage large collections of high-quality images, such as raw car photos or high-resolution portraits.

Another benefit of local storage is that you can store your photos directly on your chosen drive without having to deal with data limits or subscription fees. If you need the best export settings for a print or you use Lightroom AI denoise, working with local storage is more convenient and faster. With local storage in Lightroom Classic, you can efficiently manage your images, especially when you want to optimize your editing process using smart previews.

Locally, Not in the Cloud (Volume 1)

If you prefer to keep your photos in local storage rather than the cloud, Lightroom Classic is a much better option. In it, you store your images directly on your computer or external hard drive, which gives you full control and security. Compared to cloud storage, local storage provides you with more space and speed, which is ideal for people who manage large volumes of photos, such as raw car photos or high-resolution landscapes. When working in local storage, you don’t need an internet connection, which is the case with cloud-based systems.

If you need to efficiently apply Lightroom presets or use the best Dell desktop computer for Lightroom photo editing 2024, the local storage option gives you more performance and reliability. It lets you easily organize your files and get fast access when it’s time to edit. Compared to the cloud, local storage lets you safely store your images on a single device, without worrying about syncing issues and subscription fees.

Photos Stored Locally, Not in the Cloud (Volume 2)

If you prefer to keep your photos in local storage rather than in the cloud, Lightroom Classic is your best option. The advantage of local storage is that you can save your images to your selected drives or external hard drives, without having to face storage limits and monthly subscription fees. This is especially beneficial for photographers who take high-resolution raw car photos or night photography, who need more storage space and fast access. Editing photos in local storage is very smooth, without any lag or syncing issues.

Apart from this, while working on local storage you get full control over your data, which is not available in cloud-based options. If you need to quickly export or print your photos, then with local storage you get the best export settings and more control. If you need to use advanced tools like Lightroom AI denoise or smart previews, then these processes are quite efficient in local storage. Using local storage in Lightroom Classic allows you to optimize your workflow, without any limitations of cloud-based storage.

It Has a Photo Book Module

Lightroom Classic has a unique feature that is not available in the cloud version, and that is the Photo Book Module. This module gives photographers the option to beautifully design their images and create custom photo books. You can easily drag and drop your selected photos and add layouts, backgrounds, and other customizations. This feature is very useful for those who want to convert their photography into print, such as converting raw car photos or travel photography into a professional photo book.

Using this photo book module, you can create the perfect design to print your photos, in which you get an intuitive interface. In Lightroom Classic you have full control over print settings, margins, and photo arrangement, which is very helpful for the best print export settings. This feature is especially valuable for wedding photographers or event photographers who want to create custom albums for their clients. By using Lightroom presets you can quickly enhance your images, which makes the photo book creation process fast and efficient.

It Has a Soft Proofing Feature

Another powerful feature in Lightroom Classic is Soft Proofing, which is especially useful for print-ready images. This feature allows you to optimise your digital images for print, without actually printing them. Soft Proofing gives you a simulated print look for your photos, adjusted to the colour profile of your chosen printer and paper type. This feature helps photographers choose the best Lightroom export settings for a print, so that prints come out with exact colours and tones.

If you use a camera profile in Lightroom, soft proofing gives you the option to accurately view colours that are adjusted in prints according to the Sony or Canon camera profiles. Through soft proofing, you can easily see the effect of Lightroom presets that will be applied to the final print output. This feature is especially beneficial for photographers who work with print media and want an exact match to their digital photos in print.

The Plug-Ins Available on Lightroom Classic

By using plug-ins in Lightroom Classic, you can significantly enhance your photo editing workflow. These plug-ins provide you with additional features and tools that go beyond the default Lightroom capabilities. For example, you can install export plug-ins to send your photos directly to third-party services, like social media platforms, print services, or cloud storage options. If you use Lightroom presets, you can easily import and apply preset packs through plug-ins, making your editing process more efficient.

Another popular plug-in option is HDR merge or panorama stitching, which provide you with powerful tools for multi-image editing. If you take raw night car photos or landscape photography, these plug-ins give you more flexibility and advanced editing options. Through plug-ins, you can integrate AI denoise features and custom workflows, which further optimize performance in Lightroom Classic. These tools also give you the option to customize Lightroom export settings, so you can create best quality prints and digital images.

Lightroom Classic Has More Features!

Lightroom Classic has more advanced features available, making it a powerful tool, especially for photographers involved in deep photo editing and organization. First of all, in the Classic version you get the option of local storage, which gives you control to store your photos directly on your computer or external drives. In addition, Lightroom Classic has advanced editing tools like HSL editor, local adjustment brushes, and graduated filters, which make photo enhancement more precise and customized. These tools give you extra control and accuracy when handling complex images like raw car photos or night photography.

In the Classic version you also get features like soft proofing, smart previews, and batch editing that are not available in Lightroom CC. These features are highly useful for professionals who work on high-end print work or large-scale projects. If you want the best Dell desktop computer for Lightroom photo editing 2024, you can make your editing process faster and more efficient by using the additional features of Lightroom Classic. In the Classic version, you can easily organize your photos, and achieve high-quality results by customizing AI denoise and export settings.

Use Lightroom CC If:

If you want a simple and user-friendly experience, Lightroom CC may be the best option for you. This version is cloud-based, allowing you to save your photos to cloud storage. This means you can access your images from anywhere, no matter what device you’re working on. If you want to quickly apply Lightroom presets or use an AI photo editor free like Lightroom, Lightroom CC’s simple interface will provide you with fast editing options. It’s ideal for photographers who do mobile photography or on-the-go editing, where flexibility and convenience are a must.

Lightroom CC also has collaboration features that let you share your photos and work with a team. If you need to sync your photos via the cloud after downloading Lightroom, this feature helps you organize subfolders with Lightroom CC. You get features like the best export settings for a print and Lightroom adaptive portrait enhancer that help apply automatic enhancements and make the overall workflow smoother. If you need to edit your photos quickly, Lightroom CC’s cloud integration will give you a time-saving and hassle-free experience.

Who Should Use Lightroom Classic

?Lightroom Classic is best for photographers who need more advanced editing and photo organization. If you’re a professional photographer or work on large-scale projects, you’ll benefit from local storage. In Lightroom Classic, you can store your photos on your computer or an external hard drive, giving you full control and security. It’s especially ideal for people who edit high-resolution raw photos, such as car photography or landscape photography, as this version offers more powerful tools and features, such as advanced editing brushes, HSL editor, and soft proofing.

If you need to customize Lightroom presets or make complex adjustments, Lightroom Classic’s interface gives you more flexibility. In the Classic version, you can use batch editing and smart previews, which manage large libraries efficiently. If you need the best export settings for a print, Lightroom Classic gives you more control and accuracy, especially when you work on professional prints or high-end projects. Lightroom Classic is perfect for people who want more manual control over their editing workflow, and who use features like AI denoise and camera profile in Lightroom.

Who Should Use Lightroom?

The Lightroom cloud-based version is ideal for photographers who want a simple and convenient editing process. If you’re a beginner or interested in mobile photography, Lightroom’s user-friendly interface will help you easily edit and organize photos. In Lightroom, you can save your images to cloud storage, so you can easily access and edit your photos from anywhere. This feature is perfect for people who edit on-the-go and want to share their photos instantly. If you need to quickly apply Lightroom presets and need basic edits like exposure, contrast, and color adjustments, Lightroom is suitable for you.

If you need mobile editing or you work on multiple devices, then Lightroom is an ideal option for you. It also offers automatic syncing, which saves your edits to the cloud and makes them accessible on your other devices. If you want a free AI photo editor like Lightroom or want to download Lightroom for easy access, then the cloud-based version of Lightroom will give you a seamless experience. This is best for photographers who want to make quick edits, without dealing with complex features and advanced workflows.

My Opinion on Lightroom Classic vs Lightroom CC

I think both Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC have their unique advantages, but you need to understand your needs when using both. If you’re a professional photographer who needs advanced editing and photo organization, Lightroom Classic is a better option. The Classic version gives you full control to store your photos on local storage, and it offers more powerful tools, like soft proofing, smart previews, and advanced editing brushes. If you need to edit raw car photos or high-resolution landscape shots, you’ll get more precision and accuracy in Lightroom Classic.

However, if you’re a beginner or editing on-the-go, Lightroom CC’s cloud-based structure may be convenient for you. By saving photos to cloud storage in Lightroom CC, you can access them from anywhere. If you need to make quick edits or are interested in mobile photography, Lightroom CC’s user-friendly interface gives you more flexibility. You also get automatic syncing feature, which lets you easily sync your edits across multiple devices. In personal opinion, if you want portability and simplicity, Lightroom CC is best, but if you need deep photo editing and organization, Lightroom Classic will be your best choice.

Why I Personally Use Lightroom Classic CC Instead of Lightroom CC in 2020

I chose Lightroom Classic over Lightroom CC because I wanted more control over my photo editing process. In 2020, when I wanted to streamline my photography workflow, I decided Lightroom Classic was a perfect match for me, especially since I use local storage. Lightroom Classic also gives me the option to store photos on my computer or external hard drives, giving me full control over my storage without the dependency on cloud storage. This feature was important to me as I needed to edit high-resolution raw car photos and night photography, which require more space and processing power.

Another reason was that Lightroom Classic has advanced editing tools like HSL editor, soft proofing, and local adjustment brushes, which I missed in Lightroom CC. My work mostly focuses on detailed photo enhancement and print-ready editing, and the additional features of the Classic version gave me more flexibility and precision. My editing process was a little complex, and I needed tools like batch editing and smart previews, which were available in Classic. I found the control and customizability of Lightroom Classic more suitable, which was quite different from the simpler features of Lightroom CC.

What Happens to My Photos If I Exceed My Allotment of Cloud Storage?

If you’re using Lightroom CC or Adobe Cloud storage and you exceed your allotment of cloud storage, you’ll encounter some important changes. First, when your cloud storage is full, you won’t be able to upload any more photos unless you upgrade your storage. Adobe sends you notifications in this situation telling you that your cloud storage limit has been reached and you’ll need to upgrade your plan for extra space.

If you’re syncing your photos to the cloud in Lightroom, new photos will be blocked from being uploaded. But you can edit and access photos that are already uploaded to the cloud as long as your internet connection is active. This limit won’t directly affect your photo storage when using free Lightroom presets or editing tools, but if you need more space you may want to consider downloading Adobe Lightroom or using external storage devices. Best practice is to regularly monitor your cloud storage and regularly manage your Lightroom presets to keep your storage space used efficiently.

Start Your FREE 7-Day Lightroom Trial Today!

If you want to explore Lightroom’s features, the FREE 7-Day Lightroom Trial gives you the perfect opportunity. During this trial period, you get access to the full set of features of Lightroom CC or Lightroom Classic, including how you can use cloud storage and edit your photos. This trial is ideal for photographers who want to test out Lightroom’s features before downloading it, such as Lightroom presets and advanced editing tools. Through the trial, you can quickly understand whether Lightroom’s interface and tools are suitable for your editing workflow.

If you use free Lightroom presets or are interested in mobile photography, you will benefit from cloud syncing and automatic backups during the trial period. This trial is specially perfect for people who want to test out an AI photo editor free like Lightroom, or who explore their photography Lightroom presets. You can easily enhance, edit, and share your photos so that your editing process is more efficient. After the trial, if it suits you, you can upgrade your Lightroom subscription.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lightroom and Lightroom Classic both offer unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and workflows. If you prefer a simple, cloud-based editing experience with easy access across multiple devices, Lightroom CC might be the better option. It’s great for photographers on the go or those who need to quickly edit and share photos. On the other hand, if you’re a professional photographer or someone who needs advanced editing tools, Lightroom Classic provides more control over your photos, especially when working with raw files, local storage, and more complex edits.

Whether you’re looking for a cloud-based solution or a more feature-rich, local storage option, both versions of Lightroom allow you to enhance your photos and create stunning images. If you’re still unsure, starting with the 7-day free trial is a great way to explore both versions and decide which one suits your needs best. Ultimately, both Adobe Lightroom and Lightroom Classic empower photographers to enhance their images and streamline their editing process.