How to Import Lightroom Presets on Desktop

“Lightroom CC” is an older name that readers may use for Adobe’s cloud-based Lightroom desktop app. Lightroom and Lightroom Classic are different apps, so check which one is open before following an installation tutorial. A preset bundle may arrive as a ZIP; first inspect its contents and the maker’s current instructions so you know whether it contains XMP, DNG, an older lrtemplate file, or something else.

Import into Lightroom desktop

  1. Open the Lightroom desktop app.
  2. Choose File > Import Profiles & Presets.
  3. Browse to the preset files you intend to import and click Import.
  4. Open a photo and find the imported presets in the Presets panel. Apply one to a copy or reversible edit, then adjust exposure and color for that particular photo.

Adobe says imported Lightroom desktop presets can sync to Lightroom mobile when you use the same account and current app versions. That does not mean they automatically sync with Lightroom Classic; Adobe explicitly distinguishes the Classic library. Confirm the actual file type and compatibility when working with a legacy bundle.

Using Lightroom Classic instead?

Do not look for an identical cloud-Lightroom interface. Follow Adobe’s separate Classic preset import guidance and confirm the preset file format and version. The older DJI aerial product named in this article has not been checked for current availability or compatibility, so this page does not direct you to purchase it.

Adobe references

Related on Shut Your Aperture: the complete Lightroom presets guide, how to create your own Lightroom presets, and free vs paid Lightroom presets: how to compare.