Advice for a long-time user of 6.14

[llbeck02]

I purchased an installation DVD for Lr "perpetual" about 25 years ago and have enjoyed cataloging and editing my library of about 14,000 images.  Also have used my copy of Photoshop Elements from time-to-time.  With my new computer I tried to install from DVD and of course was unable.  So I’ve finally purchased Lr “Photographer” subscription.  I’m impressed.

I’ve been able to import most of my extensive lrcat but immediately found need for instructions.  The LRQ  “Missing FAQ” book has been my main resource for 6.14 but not much help for more recent versions. I purchased Steve Laskevitch’s Photoshop book which is helping with Photoshop.  I’ve found lots of tutorials for Lr and LrC but no written User Guide/Manual for me to word-search.  So I’m looking for the best resource to learn:

• Which is best for migrating from 6.14.  Lr or LrC?
• Is there a good resource for learning the nuances between the 2 versions, or for learning either/both?
• Is there a favored way to work in Lr, LrC, Photoshop and move to the other programs without major re-working images?

Advice from some of you who have travelled these roads will certainly be appreciated.

[Rob_Cullen · Accepted solution]

"Which is best for migrating from 6.14. Lr or LrC?"

Lightroom-Classic v14.2  IS the 'latest' version of your 6.14- it looks the same, it works the same, it should simply [Open] to 6.14 catalog ** and you carry on as before, with all the new features. 

Lightroom-Desktop (aka Lightroom-Mobile on a PC or Mac) is an entirely different app that works with the Lightroom Cloud- I suggest you do not install or try this version until you have Lightroom-Classic fully sorted and working.

"Is there a good resource for learning the nuances between the 2 versions, or for learning either/both?"

Check a comparison article to get a better understanding of the differences.

COMPARE LIGHTROOM & LIGHTROOM-CLASSIC FEATURES

Lightroom Queen always heeps her "Missing FAQ" PDF version right up to date with any upgrades-  And she also publishes "Edit like a Pro" which is aimed at the mobile 'Cloud' versions of Lightroom.

Scott Kelby publishes books also.

Julianne Kost also has a vast library of tutorial videos-   VIDEO TUTORIALS 

"Is there a favored way to work in Lr, LrC, Photoshop and move to the other programs without major re-working images?"

To start simply open your v6.14 catalog with Lightroom-Classic (let it upgrade the catalog) and if you have the Photography Plan then you also have Photoshop. I work 95% in Lightroom-Classic, the other 5% I might need Photoshop for a feature that is not in Ps.  If your v6.14 catalog opens in v14.2 you don't have to re-work anything, all your work is in the catalog.

(** Note: there have been several forum posts where v6.14 catalogs will not upgrade to v14. Seek advice here if you strike this problem!)

[llbeck02]

Thank you very much, Rob.  Your comments and URLs are quite helpful!