How to Use Adobe Lightroom to Edit Photos

Edit and improve your photos using Adobe Lightroom on your computer or phone.

Steps

1
Download Adobe Lightroom
from the App Store, Google Play, or Adobe's website. The free version includes basic editing tools and filters.
2
Open a photo in Lightroom
by tapping the "Add Photos" button. Lightroom imports the photo and shows it in your library.
3
Adjust the light settings
using the sliders under the "Light" section. Start with Exposure to brighten or darken the whole photo.
4
Change the color and tone
using the "Color" section. Adjust the Saturation slider to make colors more vivid or more muted.
5
Apply a preset filter
from the Presets menu for a quick edit. Tap the checkmark to save your edited photo to your camera roll.

Is Adobe Lightroom free to use?Show

Lightroom has a free version with basic editing tools and presets. The premium version adds healing brushes, masks, and cloud storage.

Can I use Lightroom on my phone?Show

Yes, Lightroom is available for iPhone and Android. The mobile version has most of the same editing tools as the desktop version.

Does Lightroom edit the original photo?Show

No, Lightroom creates a copy of your photo for editing. Your original photo stays unchanged in your camera roll at all times.

What is the difference between Lightroom and Photoshop?Show

Lightroom is for photo editing and organizing. Photoshop is for detailed image manipulation like removing objects or combining photos.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated May 18, 2026.