Exporting photos from Lightroom can be confusing for both beginners and experienced users. This guide will provide clear, step-by-step instructions on how to export images while preserving their original quality or applying your edits. We’ll explore different export options, ensuring you understand the nuances of each method and achieve the desired results for your photography workflow.
Understanding Lightroom Export Options
Lightroom offers several ways to export your photos, each serving a different purpose. Choosing the right method is crucial for maintaining image integrity and optimizing your workflow.
Exporting the Original Photo
The simplest way to export an unedited photo from Lightroom is to use the “Original” format option. This method bypasses any Lightroom adjustments, ensuring you receive the exact file as imported.
- Select the Photo: Choose the image you want to export from the Library or Develop module.
- Initiate Export: Go to File > Export or use the keyboard shortcut (Ctrl+Shift+E on Windows, Cmd+Shift+E on Mac).
- Choose Export Location: Specify where you want to save the exported file.
- Select File Settings: In the File Settings panel, choose “Original” from the “Image Format” dropdown menu. This guarantees no Lightroom processing is applied.
- Export: Click the “Export” button to complete the process.
Exporting Edited Photos
To export photos with your Lightroom edits applied, you’ll need to adjust the export settings accordingly.
- Select Photo and Export: Follow steps 1 and 2 as outlined above.
- Choose File Settings: Select your desired image format (JPEG, TIFF, PSD) and quality settings. These options will determine the file size and image quality of the exported photo. Adjusting the color space (sRGB or Adobe RGB) is also crucial depending on your intended use.
- Image Sizing: Specify the desired dimensions for your exported image. You can choose specific pixel dimensions, limit the file size, or use a percentage scale.
- Output Sharpening: Apply output sharpening based on the intended use of the image (screen, print).
- Metadata: Choose which metadata (copyright, keywords, camera settings) to include in the exported file.
- Export: Click the “Export” button to save your edited photo.
Accessing the Original File Directly
Another method for obtaining the original, unedited file is to locate it directly on your hard drive.
- Right-Click the Photo: In the Library or Develop module, right-click on the image you want to access.
- Show in Explorer/Finder: Select “Show in Explorer” (Windows) or “Show in Finder” (macOS). This will open a file explorer window highlighting the original file on your computer. You can then copy or move the file as needed.
Conclusion
Understanding How To Export Photos From Lightroom is essential for any photographer. By choosing the right export method and settings, you can ensure your images are optimized for their intended use while maintaining the quality and integrity of your work. Whether you need to preserve the original file or share your edited masterpieces, Lightroom provides the tools to manage your photography workflow effectively.
