Lightroom Or Photoshop: Which One Is Right for Beginner

If you have started testing your camera and you have taken a couple of photographs, chances are you are looking for ways to add a professional touch to your photos through editing. A good photo editing software is your best friend when it comes to post-photography editing. However, choosing the right one can be challenging with a plethora of choices available in the market.

When it comes to best-in-class photo editing software, two names stand out the most – Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Although both may seem similar, there is a considerable amount of difference between them. So, which is the right one for beginners. Let’s find out!

What is Adobe Photoshop?

Adobe Photoshop needs no introduction. It has earned a reputation in the photo editing industry. So much so that it has become synonymous with photo editing. Created as a simple image editing tool, it has evolved into an editing software suite with robust editing capabilities.

Photoshop is not only used by photographers but by graphic designers, web designers, architects, and publishers as well. Its extensive functionality provides you with the ultimate control to manipulate your photos.

What is Adobe Lightroom?

Often considered as a subset of Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom has specific functionality that Photoshop doesn’t have. Created for managing a large number of images and keeping them in one place, it has a simple interface that makes it easy to use. Photo editing tools are easy to find and simple to use even for a beginner. As a database-driven software, Lightroom also has built-in functionality to add information to images.

Common Editing Requirements for Beginners

Easy-To-Use

If you are brand new to photo editing, you will probably prefer an editing tool without a steep learning curve. Also, you will want software that has a simple interface with easy-to-find editing tools. As a simple layout is intuitive to figure out, you can get started with editing in a matter of minutes.

Batch Processing

If you have clicked many photos and want to process them in a batch, you will need editing software that offers a smooth operation. Also, you need to ensure that your software has pre-set to simplify the use.

Straight Forward Workflow

When you are starting, you must choose software that has a straightforward workflow. And your editing needs are easy to find & implement.

Retouching

Retouching is essential in photo editing. From basic to advanced, your retouching requirements may vary, or you may not even need it. It all depends on your choice. You must choose software that aligns with your retouching needs. Most editing software offers basic retouching. However, if you want advanced retouching, you will have to play around with robust editing software.

Composting

Do you want elements of multiple images into a single one? Combining elements of many different elements into one single image is called composting. If you want to use it, you will need powerful editing software that allows complex editing.

Tips for Choosing the Right Photo Editing Software

If you are confused between Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom, here are a few tips that will help you choose the right one for you.

Make a List

Before analyzing Photoshop or Lightroom, you must ensure you have a clear picture of what you want. Try to make a comprehensive list of all your requirements.

Research

As mentioned earlier, both Photoshop and Lightroom are the powerhouses of editing software. If you want to zero down to one, you must research and understand the difference between them and alignment with your requirements

Compare Features

There are many online resources available online that compare the features and suitability of Photoshop and Lightroom. Try to read a trusted comparison by industry experts to form your opinion.

In Conclusion

At the end of the day, reliable photo editing software is what matters to a photographer. According to experts at Shotkit, if you have just embarked on your journey as a photographer, you might need an intuitive photo editing software. They suggest starting with Lightroom in the beginning. And once you are aware of all its capabilities and limitations, you can add Photoshop to the mix when you need advanced photo manipulation. However, the ultimate choice depends on your actual needs and your preference.