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Inspiring
June 10, 2025
Answered

Switching to full cloud with iPad

  • June 10, 2025
  • 1 reply
  • 273 views

I'm thinking about switching from my current LRc on PC + NAS workflow to a lighter and 100% cloud Lightroom for iPad (presumably an iPad Air M3) with a decent data plan. I still don't have the iPad so I cannot check by myself.

 

Are local masks and and AI denoise available on the iPad LR version ? And how can I periodically backup all my photos on a hardrive/NAS for increased data security ?

Correct answer Sameer K

Hey @Tokumeino! I'll clarify this for you. Yes, the original images are imported and uploaded to the cloud. 

Once the full-size raw images are uploaded to the cloud, Lightroom will gradually remove the full-size images from the iPad's storage. You can also go to Lightroom's in-app settings > Local Storage to monitor and even 'Clear Cache'. 

 

Let me know if this helps. Thanks! 

Sameer K

(Type '@' and type my name to mention me when you reply)

1 reply

Anshul_Saini
Community Manager
Community Manager
June 10, 2025

Hi @Tokumeino,

 

Thanks for your thoughtful question! You’re correct that Lightroom on iPad offers a powerful mobile workflow, and with a device like the iPad Air M3, you’ll be in great shape for most tasks. Local adjustment tools (masks) are available and work well on an iPad.

 

However, to clarify:

AI Denoise is not yet supported on the iPad version of Lightroom. It’s currently only available in Lightroom (Mac/Windows desktop).

 

The best workflow for backing up your cloud photos to a NAS or hard drive is to install Lightroom Desktop (not Classic) on a computer.

 

Hope this helps you make the right decision for your setup. Let me know if you’d like help planning that transition!

 

Best regards,

Anshul

TokumeinoAuthor
Inspiring
June 10, 2025

Thanks a lot. It helps.

I have another quite different question about how things work on the go. If I import RAW files from my DSRL to an iPad using the USB port, it will upload the original files on Adobe servers, right ? And at that point, is it possible to only keep a smart preview on the iPad ? Storage is so expensive by Apple...

Sameer K
Community Manager
Sameer KCommunity ManagerCorrect answer
Community Manager
June 24, 2025

Hey @Tokumeino! I'll clarify this for you. Yes, the original images are imported and uploaded to the cloud. 

Once the full-size raw images are uploaded to the cloud, Lightroom will gradually remove the full-size images from the iPad's storage. You can also go to Lightroom's in-app settings > Local Storage to monitor and even 'Clear Cache'. 

 

Let me know if this helps. Thanks! 

Sameer K

(Type '@' and type my name to mention me when you reply)