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Participant
August 2, 2019
Question

I am using Lightroom 6.14. How do I export a raw image to edit, then after I edit the image, save it with the edits, while keeping the origianl raw file intact?

  • August 2, 2019
  • 5 replies
  • 344 views

How do I export a raw image to edit, then after I edit the image, save it with the edits, while keeping the origianl raw file intact?

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    5 replies

    Abambo
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    August 2, 2019

    In Lightroom, "edits" are stored in the database. The raw file stays 100% untouched.

    The edits are kind of instructions on what to do when the picture is exported. Pictures are normally exported as JPEGs or TIFF. There is no possibility to create a new raw file, with the exception of exporting as a DNG which is Adobe's open raw file format.

    So the basic workflow in Lightroom is:

    • import the raw files:

    The files are imported from the camera or a storage card and copied to the harddisk at a specified location. You can also import from the harddisk for existing photos.

    • Edit:

    Modify the exposure, correct lenses, crop, add a location etc. The edits are stored in the catalog file. The raw file is not modified.

    • Export

    Export as JPEG, TIFF. Your edits are backed to the file. That file can be forwarded to your customer/family/friends.

    Your raw allows for different independent edits. As it is nondestructive, you can always return to a starting point.

    See also here: How to export photos from Photoshop Lightroom Classic

    (Even that they call it Lightroom Classic now, it is also valid for your version of Lightroom)

    ABAMBO | Hard- and Software Engineer | Photographer
    Community Expert
    August 2, 2019

    Everything Abambo wrote is correct.  However if you really want to "export a raw image to edit" there is a way.  In the Export dialog there is a choice for "Original".  It makes an exact copy of the of the original raw.  It can be renamed, added to the catalog or sent to Photoshop for editing.  

    I don't know why you would want to do that.  Abambo's workflow is the commonly accepted one.  

    Bill

    Abambo
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    August 4, 2019

    whsprague  wrote


    I don't know why you would want to do that.

    Well it looks like someone thought this to be useful. I would copy the file using the OS offered options.

    ABAMBO | Hard- and Software Engineer | Photographer