Lightroom Classic 14.0 has introduced updates that aim to refine the editing process, from enhanced tools to smarter file management. For those who spend hours perfecting images, these changes could make a big difference in productivity and ease of use.
Coming to you from Anthony Morganti, this detailed video covers the recent updates to Lightroom Classic, including enhancements to the Remove tool, which now integrates generative AI. While the tool was already available, it had been under early access, meaning it was still being refined. Now, it is fully implemented and ready for general use. This generative AI feature is especially useful for quick fixes like removing sensor spots or minor distractions. For complex edits, however, Morganti advises caution, as the tool's use of content-aware fill may not always yield flawless results. What sets the generative AI apart is its ability to send your image to Adobe's servers for more refined processing, which can produce cleaner edits compared to the standard removal methods.
The video also discusses how to use the new "detect objects" feature alongside the generative AI. This is particularly handy when you're trying to remove a distinct object, as it can quickly outline and eliminate unwanted elements without affecting other parts of the image. Morganti explains the process clearly, noting the importance of adjusting your selection with the subtract brush for better results. Despite occasional glitches, such as failed attempts to connect to Adobe's servers, the tool's ability to generate multiple variations of an edit is a definite plus, allowing you to choose the most convincing outcome.
One of the more understated yet practical updates is the new option to rename catalogs directly within the application. Previously, Adobe would assign default names when creating a new catalog after an update, leading to cluttered or confusing file management. With the latest version, you can rename catalogs as needed, helping to keep your workspace organized. This change, though minor, reflects Adobe's effort to streamline user experience by allowing more control over how files are managed. Morganti shares how he utilizes this feature by setting up new catalogs every year, avoiding the slowdown that can occur with large, unwieldy catalogs.
Lightroom Classic 14 also introduces a revamped system for managing 1:1 previews. The new version allows you to set a specific cache size for previews, automatically deleting the oldest ones once the cache limit is reached. This is a shift from the previous time-based system, which only allowed users to set previews to be deleted after a certain number of days. For those who regularly work with 1:1 previews, this feature offers a more efficient way to manage disk space while keeping essential previews on hand. It's a small change but one that can make a noticeable difference in everyday use.
Another notable addition is the integration of content credentials, a feature previously seen in Photoshop. Still under early access, this tool embeds information about the edits made to an image, such as the use of generative AI, directly into the file or stores it in the cloud. Morganti explains how this can be useful not only for transparency but also for protecting your work. By connecting your content credentials to social media accounts, viewers can verify the creator's identity, which is especially helpful if your name is a common one. Although not a must-use feature for everyone, it could play a bigger role in the future, particularly in situations where contests or licensing agreements require detailed information about the editing process. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Morganti.
