9 Biggest Lightroom Editing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them (2024)

Ever wonder why your images don’t quite capture the magic that other photographers seem to get in their edits? After eight years of editing full-time and making every editing mistake there is, I’ve identified the nine key mistakes that separate amateur edits from pro-quality results. In this post, I’ll guide you through these common pitfalls and provide tips to help you sidestep them, so you can elevate your photo editing skills in Adobe Lightroom.

1. Not Getting It Right in Camera

The foundation of great editing starts with the right ingredients, much like cooking an amazing meal. If you’re trying to bake a cake without flour or cook a steak with only deli meat, no amount of editing can save the day. The single greatest way to improve your edits isn’t through editing at all; it’s about improving your photography. The closer your image is to the style you’re aiming for, the easier it will be to achieve the desired result in post-production.

2. Skipping Over the Basic Panel

The Basic panel is where about 50% of your edit comes from. Many photographers overlook this crucial step in favor of more advanced techniques, but the reality is that the basics—like exposure, contrast, highlights, shadows, and whites—should be your main focus. Spend time adjusting these settings before diving into more intricate edits to ensure a solid foundation for your work.

3. Not Nailing the White Balance

Nailing your white balance is essential for achieving natural-looking colors in your images. In Lightroom, adjustments in the Develop module follow a top-down order of importance. White balance and exposure are at the top because they impact your images more than anything else. If your white balance is off, it can drastically affect the saturation of different colors in your photo. Take the time to get this right, as it will enhance the overall quality of your edits.

4. Relying on Presets Without Tweaking Them

While presets can be a fantastic starting point, they are not a magic solution. Many photographers, myself included when I first started, think that simply applying a preset will transform their photos. However, every photo is unique, and presets should be treated as recipes that need adjustment based on the specific ingredients at hand. Adapt presets to suit the particular lighting conditions and subjects in your photos for optimal results.

5. Overediting Your Images

Overediting is a common trap, especially for beginners who may feel compelled to push every slider to its maximum. Great edits often go unnoticed because they support the story being told rather than distract from it. The best photos don’t scream “edited”—they capture the essence of the moment while enhancing the viewer’s experience. Focus on making subtle adjustments that enhance your images without making them feel artificial.

6. Not Using a Reference Image

One of the fastest ways to improve your editing style is to use a reference image that you admire. Having a photo that you love right next to your working image can dramatically improve your editing decisions. A reference image serves as a benchmark for color, contrast, and overall feel, helping you maintain consistency. If you notice that your edits don’t feel right, comparing them to a reference can provide clarity and direction.

7. Not Using Keyboard Shortcuts

If you edit regularly in Lightroom, learning keyboard shortcuts is essential. It may seem trivial, but saving just a few seconds on each photo can add up significantly. For example, when editing a large wedding with 1,200 photos, saving 3 or 4 seconds per photo could save you hours of work. Familiarize yourself with must-know shortcuts to streamline your workflow and improve efficiency.

8. Not Working in Batches

Having a workflow for your edits can save you time and lead to more consistent results. Instead of editing each photo individually, start by applying a base preset to all your images. This way, you set the tone for your edits early on. After applying your base adjustments, you can fine-tune individual images, focusing on specific elements like white balance and exposure, ensuring most images are already 80% of the way there.

9. Inconsistent Editing Conditions

Editing in varying conditions can lead to inconsistent results. Whether you’re editing in a dark room, using a poor-quality monitor, or working in bright light, these factors can affect how you perceive your images. If you can’t control your environment, use a reference image to maintain consistency in your edits. This practice will help ensure your images look good regardless of the conditions under which you’re working.

Conclusion

By being aware of these nine common Lightroom editing mistakes, you can elevate your photo editing skills and achieve the pro quality results you’ve been aiming for. Remember, the goal is to learn and improve with each edit, and avoiding these pitfalls will help you along the way.

Which editing traps do you find yourself falling into? Share your experiences or any tips in the comments below.

If you found this post helpful, be sure to check out my latest video for more insights and tips on mastering Lightroom!

9 Biggest Lightroom Editing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them (2024)
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