Back in 2007, Adobe launched its professional photo editing software, originally called “Adobe Lightroom.” A decade later, in 2017, Adobe split this product into two distinct programs. Today, serious photographers have two main choices: Adobe Lightroom Classic and Adobe Lightroom (Cloud-Based). This post will help you understand the differences between these two versions so you can decide which option best suits your image storage needs.
Adobe Lightroom Classic: For the Control-Oriented Photographer
With Classic, your digital photos are stored on your own hardware meaning your computer’s internal hard drive or external drives that you attach to your computer. Since this is your hardware, you are responsible for designing and maintaining your file storage and photo backup system. While this offers significant flexibility for professionals, it also presents a challenge for those who aren’t comfortable with data management.
Adobe Lightroom (Cloud-Based): Simplicity and Accessibility
When you choose the cloud-based version, Adobe takes care of storing your photos on their servers. This means you don’t need to buy additional hardware as your photo library grows and that you do not need to build a redundant image backup system. With this product, all your images are automatically uploaded to Adobe for storage and safekeeping.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Lightroom
Here are some important factors to weigh when making your decision:
- Internet Connection: Cloud-based Lightroom relies on a stable internet connection. If your internet is unreliable, or unavailable for months at a time, then Lightroom Classic is the better choice. On the other hand, cloud storage means that you can access your images from any internet-connected device, anywhere in the world. If you want to edit on your smartphone, tablet, or any computer while on the go then the cloud-based version is the better choice.
- Computer Skills and Data Management: Mastering Lightroom Classic requires a good understanding of computers, including hard drives, file storage protocols, and creating your own backups. If the thought of maintaining robust photo backups intimidates you then Adobe Lightroom (Cloud-Based) is a simpler option.
- Learning Curve: Lightroom Classic has a steeper learning curve and is not beginner-friendly. If you’re looking for a quicker start then Adobe Lightroom (Cloud-Based) is much easier to master.
Important Notes on Using Lightroom
It’s crucial to understand that there is not much middle ground here. You must choose either Lightroom Classic or the cloud-based Lightroom. Trying to use both options simultaneously rarely works well.
If you decide to switch from Lightroom Classic to the cloud-based Lightroom in the future then the transition is straightforward. However, be aware that this is a one-way street; moving your images back from the cloud version to Classic is much more difficult.
Ultimately, if you prefer local storage, are comfortable with data management, and if are willing to invest the time needed to learn a more complex program then Adobe Lightroom Classic is a strong contender. But if the convenience and accessibility of cloud-based storage appeal to you, along with a shorter learning curve then Adobe Lightroom (Cloud-Based) is probably the right fit.
