How to Import Lightroom Presets Desktop + Mobile | Lightroom Tips

Video Training

April 7, 2022

I love using Lightroom presets for my photography business, but I’ve been frustrated before when the import gives me trouble. Presets can help in our editing and consistency in our work. So, not being able to use them due to an import error is annoying to say the least! Today I’ll talk about how to import Lightroom presets on desktop + mobile from the backend.

Before we take a look, I want you to hop in on this free class I’m hosting. It’s called 5 Steps to Launching Your Photography Side-Gig! Whether photography is a hobby or you’re desiring a career in this biz.. this class will take you to the next level. It answers questions like “where do I even start”, “what’s the most important first step”, etc.

Desktop Import

I’m using the Lightroom Classic CC to import these presets. There are 2 types of preset file types: .lrtemplate and .xmp. Let’s focus on the .lrtemplate file first. Choose the presets tab, show all other Lightroom presets which then brings you to a menu. Choose develop presets and user presets. This is where you drag your Lightroom preset files into. Once you drag it in you will want to quit out of the software. Once you reopen Lightroom the presets will now be available for you to use!

Importing an .xmp file is actually easier. Go to your presets tab, click the + and choose import presets. Import your preset and voila! It’s super simple and you can get to work!

Mobile Import

First off, when you open the mobile dng preset file in your camera roll it looks blank (don’t panic). When you open Lightroom, you click import from camera roll. Select that dng! You click the three dots in the corner and select “create preset”. Give the preset a name and select done! When you want to apply this to a photo you simply choose a photo and apply the preset! Mobile is super easy and you can adjust your settings how you prefer.

Need a visual? Checkout the video as I share my screen on how to import Lightroom presets desktop + mobile below!