Using Lightroom 6 How to Add Presets to Lightroom

If you’re exploring using Lightroom 6 how to add presets to Lightroom, you’re likely searching for a faster way to enhance your photos with professional looks. Many photographers, from students to seasoned professionals, face the challenge of manually editing each image. This process can be time-consuming and inconsistent.

The promise of presets is simple: one click, repeatable results, and endless creative flexibility. In this guide, you’ll learn how to install, organize, and use presets in Lightroom 6 so you can spend less time editing and more time creating stunning images.

Summary Table: Using Lightroom 6 How to Add Presets to Lightroom

Step	Action	Details
1	Locate Presets	Find preset files in `.lrtemplate` format
2	Open Lightroom 6	Launch the program on your computer
3	Import Presets	Use the Preferences or Develop panel
4	Apply Presets	Click on a preset to instantly edit your photo
5	Organize Presets	Create folders and rename for easy access
6	Troubleshoot	Fix missing, outdated, or misplaced presets

What Are Lightroom Presets and Why Use Them?

Lightroom presets are pre-saved editing settings that apply adjustments like exposure, tone, and color grading with one click. For Lightroom 6 users, presets are especially valuable because they:

Speed up editing workflows
Create consistency across large batches of photos
Help beginners learn professional editing techniques
Offer endless creative variations without manual trial-and-error

Understanding the value of presets makes it clear why learning how to add them to Lightroom 6 can transform your workflow. Now let’s explore how to prepare your preset files.

How to Prepare Presets Before Adding Them

Before you import presets into Lightroom 6, make sure they are in the correct format. Unlike Lightroom Classic or Creative Cloud, Lightroom 6 uses .lrtemplate files, not .xmp files. If your presets are in .xmp, you’ll need to convert them using third-party tools or request .lrtemplate versions.

Having the right file format ensures a smooth import process. With that ready, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step installation.

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Step-by-Step: Using Lightroom 6 How to Add Presets to Lightroom

Step 1: Locate Your Presets

Download or purchase presets and confirm they are in .lrtemplate format. Save them in a clearly labeled folder on your computer.

Step 2: Open Lightroom 6

Launch Lightroom 6 and go to the Develop module, where presets can be managed and applied.

Step 3: Import Presets into Lightroom 6

Click the + icon in the Presets panel
Choose Import Presets
Navigate to the folder where your .lrtemplate files are stored
Select them and click Import

Your presets will now appear in the Presets panel.

Step 4: Apply a Preset to a Photo

Select an image in the Develop module. Simply click on a preset from the left panel, and Lightroom instantly applies the saved adjustments.

Step 5: Organize and Manage Presets

Right-click to create preset folders
Drag and drop presets into categories
Rename for clarity (e.g., “Warm Portraits,” “Moody Landscapes”)

Once your presets are organized, using them becomes faster and more intuitive.

Step 6: Troubleshoot Common Issues

Presets not showing? Make sure they’re in .lrtemplate format
Presets applied incorrectly? Check that the image file type (RAW vs JPEG) matches preset expectations
Accidental duplicates? Delete duplicates from the preset folder

Now that you know the step-by-step method, let’s explore some pro tips for making the most of presets.

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Tips for Getting the Best Results with Presets

Always adjust after applying a preset to fine-tune results
Use presets as a starting point, not the final product
Build your own presets for consistent personal branding
Test different presets on different lighting situations

By applying these best practices, your presets will become powerful creative tools rather than one-click shortcuts.

FAQs

Can I use XMP presets in Lightroom 6?

No, Lightroom 6 only supports .lrtemplate files. You’ll need to convert .xmp files before importing.

Where is the Lightroom 6 presets folder located?

On Windows: C:\Users[YourName]\AppData\Roaming\Adobe\Lightroom\Develop Presets\
On Mac: Users/[YourName]/Library/Application Support/Adobe/Lightroom/Develop Presets/

Why don’t my presets look good on all photos?

Presets are not universal. They’re designed for specific lighting and color conditions. Always fine-tune settings after applying.

Can I create my own presets in Lightroom 6?

Yes, after editing an image, click the + icon in the Presets panel, choose Create Preset, and save your adjustments.

Conclusion

Adding presets in Lightroom 6 is one of the fastest ways to elevate your photo editing. With the right format, a smooth import process, and organized folders, you’ll unlock creative flexibility and time-saving power. Presets not only simplify editing but also help you develop a recognizable, consistent style.