how to import photos without overwriting existing edits or metadata

Question

I am currently applying for an editing job and the client wants to send me his catalog to work from. I haven't dealt with client catalogs yet and usually receive RAW files and import direct into Lightroom so I don't really know what to do.

The client specially said the following, ''I'm looking for someone who already knows Adobe Lightroom Classic well. You would also need to be comfortable with importing and exporting catalogs, and knowing how to import photos without overwriting existing edits or metadata.''

I have Lightroom Classic CC. My main confusion is with the metadata information not getting overwritten. Can someone explain to me how to achieve this without messing someones catalog of images up?

Thank you

Rob_Cullen · Answer

I do not believe you have to Import or Export anything!

(You do not open or need your own catalog.)

You will just need to follow these steps-

1) Download the Client's Catalog and accompanying Smart Previews (unzip if sent as a zip folder)

2) Open the Client's Catalog with your (compatible version) of Lightroom.

3) Edit the photos (the previews reference the Smart Previews)

4) Send the Client's Catalog back to the client. (only the Clients catalog is needed! they have the originals)

without overwriting existing edits or metadata.

Just do not clear History in the Develop panel, do not change anything in the Metadata panel.

You could also create Virtual Copies for your edits if the Client wants to see previews of their development beside yours.

All your editing will be stored in the Catalog.

You will need the original full-size files (instead of Smart Previews) if the client expects you to fine-tune sharpening and noise reduction.

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