Learn everything about Lightroom XMP presets: what they are, how to install them on desktop & mobile, differences from LRTEMPLATE, and pro workflow tips. Complete guide for 2025.
For over a decade, Lightroom presets were saved with the file extension .lrtemplate . These were essentially text files written in a specific code that Lightroom could read to apply develop settings. However, .lrtemplate files were proprietary to Lightroom. lightroom presets xmp
Open Lightroom right now. Go to the Presets panel. Import one new XMP pack, or create your own. Spend ten minutes applying that preset to ten different photos—bright ones, dark ones, portraits, and landscapes. See how it reacts. Adjust the exposure slider. Learn everything about Lightroom XMP presets: what they
are the modern, universal standard for Lightroom editing. Whether you’re on a desktop, laptop, or phone, XMP ensures you can apply professional looks in seconds. They are easy to install, simple to create, and fully compatible with cloud syncing. These were essentially text files written in a
In the newer Lightroom CC (non-Classic), every preset has an slider. If the preset looks too strong, hover over the preset thumbnail and drag the slider down to 50% opacity. This is a game-changer for achieving subtle, natural looks.
Aside from cross-compatibility, the switch to brought several technical advantages that improve the user experience:
Presets are now instruction-driven, allowing them to sync reliably across all devices when signed into an Adobe account. This allows for a "connected editing system" where a preset looks identical on a phone, tablet, or workstation. Lou & Marks Presets Practical Benefits for Photographers The move to XMP introduced several workflow efficiencies: Non-Destructive Versatility: