Lightroom "softens" images?

[caeccles]

Hey all, since this last update I've noticed that Lightroom is softening my images.  I import and edit original + smart preview.  The images are tack sharp when I first open, but before my eyes the images go soft.  I've checked/unchecked the GUI, I've tried to work just with the original, but nothing works.  If I zoom in, then I can still see the image as sharp, but it's super annoying and not helpful to the workflow.  

Thoughts?

[99jon]

Are you using Lightroom Classic or the cloud version of Lightroom? Which build is installed?

[caeccles]

99jon - Lightroom Classic. I use 1:1 Build Smart Previews on all my imports as well.

[99jon]

Smart previews are not 1:1 but have a resolution just greater than 2000 pixels on the long edge. If you generate standard previews on import you can zoom the original to 1:1 for sharpening. Smart previews are only useful for editing on the go e.g. on a mobile phone or tablet device where the edits then get sync’d back to the original file.

I always use 1:1 previews for checking focus and sharpness. Also for applying sharpness/NR/masking, notably for high iso images.

There are two aspects e.g. capture sharpening and output sharpening. The idea of capture sharpening is to get the image “just sharp” in Lightroom Classic but not over sharp.

You then apply output sharpening on export based on usage e.g. for screen if emailing or uploading to the web or for print/paper type.

[caeccles]

Thanks for those insights! I do a lot of bulk processing (action sports). I can't remember when/who, but someone recommended I use smart previews to cut down on the processing time. I'll go back to just 1:1 see what happens. I upgraded a monitor recently and was wondering if that might have something to do with it. It's just really strange (and disheartening) to see an awesome sharp shot go soft right before your eyes. Thanks again!

[stevey321]

Hi, I'm having this exact same issue right now, I also just got a new monitor, when working through in lightroom, they appear super sharp at first then quickly go soft? I can't figure out what's causing it to do it. When zoomed to 100% the images look super sharper, but zoomed back out they go soft in Develop mode. 

[Rikk Flohr: Photography]

You’ve posted to an ancient thread. It is highly unlikely that the issue described in this thread, though not impossible, is the same one you are currently experiencing. Rather than resurrect an old thread that is seemingly similar, you are better off posting to a new thread with fresh, complete information, including system information, a complete description of the problem, and step-by-step instructions for reproduction. 

If the issue is the same, we will merge you back into the appropriate location. 

Thank you!