Here's how you import photos into Lightroom to start editing:
-
Launch Lightroom: Open the Adobe Lightroom application on your computer.
-
Navigate to the Library Module: In the top right corner of the Lightroom interface, click on the "Library" module. This is where you manage and organize your photos.
-
Initiate the Import Process: Look for the "Import" button located at the bottom left-hand panel of the Library module and click it. This opens the import window.
-
Choose Your Source: In the import window, under the "Source" panel on the left, you will see a list of available locations. Select the source of your photos. This could be a hard drive, an external drive, a memory card, or even a connected camera. Navigate through the folder structure to find the exact folder containing the photos you want to import.
-
Select the Photos: Once you've chosen your source, Lightroom will display thumbnails of the photos in that location. You can then:
- Select All: Choose all the photos displayed.
- Select Individually: Click on the individual thumbnails you want to import. A checkmark will appear on selected photos.
- Use Filters (Optional): Lightroom often provides options to filter the photos displayed based on file type, date, etc., which can help you narrow down your selection.
-
Import Settings (Optional): Before importing, you can adjust import settings in the right-hand panel of the import window. These settings may include:
- File Handling: Options like copying photos to a new location, adding to a collection, or renaming files during import.
- Apply During Import: Apply develop settings, metadata, or keywords automatically during the import process to save time later.
- Destination: Specify where you want Lightroom to store the imported photos on your hard drive.
-
Click "Import": Once you've selected your photos and adjusted your import settings, click the "Import" button (usually in the bottom right corner of the import window). Lightroom will then begin importing the selected photos into your catalog. The progress will be displayed.
Once the import is complete, your photos will be available in the Library module, ready for you to edit in the Develop module.
