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In the world of real estate photography, presenting images that stand out is not just an asset—it’s a necessity. This often comes down to the pivotal question many photographers face: should you use Lightroom or Photoshop for editing your images? 

While both Adobe products hold esteemed places in the photo editing hierarchy, they serve distinct purposes and can dramatically affect the outcome of your real estate photos.

Knowing Your Tools – Lightroom vs Photoshop

Let’s begin by discussing the differences and strengths of Lightroom and Photoshop.

Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Lightroom is often lauded for its streamlined workflow, allowing photographers to import, organize, and categorize images efficiently. 

lightroom or photoshop

Its preset features and batch editing capabilities make it the go-to for photographers needing to apply the same adjustment to multiple images.

Also, Lightroom’s non-destructive editing lets you experiment without altering the original file.

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop, on the other hand, is the powerhouse of intricate, pixel-level advanced alterations. 

lightroom or photoshop

Its layers-based editing system provides the ultimate control over images, making it possible to undertake substantial retouching, composite multiple images, or make sophisticated adjustments that Lightroom can’t handle.

So the question is…should you use Lightroom or Photoshop?

Should You Use Lightroom or Photoshop for Editing?

lightroom or photoshop

Let’s take a closer look at the strengths and weaknesses of both photo editing software when it comes to workflow and editing capabilities.

Best for Organizing and Workflow

When it comes to managing a large number of images, Lightroom shines with its ability to organize and catalog photos. 

The interface is specifically designed for photographers who need to process sets of images in one go—ideal for after a big photo shoot of a property list.

Lightroom also offers non-destructive editing, meaning you can revert your edits at any time and never lose your original image—a massive plus for maintaining original files while trying out different edits for your clients.

Best for Batch Processing

As mentioned, batch editing is one of Lightroom’s flagship features, enabling real estate photographers to apply uniform edit settings across a series of images. 

This is particularly useful when dealing with property photos that were shot under the same lighting conditions and require a consistent look.

Best for Advanced Editing and Retouching

Photoshop enters the fray with its advanced editing capabilities. 

For complex tasks like removing unwanted objects, merging photos in HDR, or editing out imperfections that could distract from a property’s appeal, Photoshop is the superior choice. 

Like non-destructive Lightroom workflows, you can work in a non-destructive manner in Photoshop by taking advantage of Layers and Smart Objects. 

Photoshop’s detailed layer work and comprehensive toolset allow photographers and photo editors to achieve a level of perfection that’s harder to realize in Lightroom.

However, layers can present a learning curve compared to Lightroom’s universal adjustment sliders, but they are excellent for managing post-production work.

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Quick Summary

When deciding between Lightroom and Photoshop, consider the following:

  • For quick, efficient, and broad edits: Lightroom will help you speed through post-processing while still maintaining a high standard
  • For detailed, specific, and more advanced retouching: Photoshop is your ally, giving you the tools to address complex editing tasks that Lightroom isn’t built for

In need of both? For those who can harness the strengths of both programs, an integrated workflow using Lightroom’s organizational prowess and Photoshop’s complex editing capabilities will yield the best results

Lightroom or Photoshop? Final Thoughts

Real estate photography demands precision and eye-catching detail that makes every image pop. 

Both Lightroom and Photoshop have their place in the editing process, and the choice ultimately comes down to the specific needs of the project. 

By understanding the strengths and distinct functionality that each program offers, photographers can optimize their workflow and produce stunning property images that attract buyers and please clients.

Remember, it’s not just about choosing Lightroom or Photoshop. It’s about recognizing when to employ each one to their full potential, ensuring that every edit reflects the quality and professionalism of your work.

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Get Help With Professional Real Estate Photo Editing

If you’re one of those busy real estate photographers who are spending after-hours editing your images, you need to stop and listen! Consider outsourcing real estate photo editing to PhotoUp.

PhotoUp, a leading real estate photo editing service, boasts over 11 years of experience in the industry and a team of several hundred skilled photo editors worldwide. 

With a fast turnaround time of 12-24 hours for basic editing, unparalleled quality, exceptional service, and competitive pricing, PhotoUp stands as the ultimate choice for all your photo editing needs. 

Our skilled photo editors can help with the following issues:

  • Improper exposure levels
  • Harsh shadows, lack of light, etc. 
  • Blurred images that were taken without a tripod  
  • Images that need cropping or other effects
  • Lawn greening and sky replacements
  • Twilight editing and day-to-dusk conversions
  • Clutter and object removal
  • Line and angle corrections
  • And much more!

No job is too big or too small for our expert team, who excel in handling both complex and simple editing tasks.

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On top of that, PhotoUp also offers additional real estate marketing services such as:

We have everything you need to enhance and market real estate photography in one easy-to-use platform!

And fortunately, PhotoUp’s pricing is affordable, starting at the low cost of $1.10 per image depending on the subscription.

All you need to do is sign up for a free PhotoUp account, place your first order and your photographs will be delivered back to you in less than 24 hours.

PhotoUp Real Estate Photo Editing Uploader Demo

To see how easy it is to get started with PhotoUp, you can check out our real estate photo editing uploader demo: 

It’s really as quick and easy as 1-2-3!

Sign up for a free PhotoUp account today and we’ll help you save time by taking real estate photo editing off your plate. Did we mention that you get 10 free edits when you sign up?!

We hope this post helped you decide whether Lightroom or Photoshop (probably both) is the best software for your editing needs. Before you go, you may also want to check out the following resources:

Stina Pettersson

Professional Blogger

Stina is an entrepreneur, digital marketer, and professional blogger who's passionate about real estate photo editing, being outdoors with her pup, and sweaty gym sessions. She loves the written word and has been writing for publications like Forbes and Thrive Global. Originally from Sweden, she's called South Florida her home since 2013.

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