What Lightroom preset file formats exist?

Lightroom presets come in different file formats, each compatible with specific versions of Lightroom. Let's explore the three main preset formats: .xmp, .lrtemplate, and .dng.

.XMP Presets:

  • Compatibility: Lightroom Classic CC (version 7.3 and later), Lightroom CC (cloud-based), and Adobe Camera Raw.
  • These presets are the latest format and offer broader compatibility and synchronization across Adobe applications.

.LRTEMPLATE Presets:

  • Compatibility: Lightroom 4, 5, 6, and Lightroom Classic CC (version 7.2 and earlier).
  • Based on the older .lrtemplate format, these presets are specific to older versions of Lightroom.
  • Note: .lrtemplate presets are not directly compatible with newer versions of Lightroom Classic CC and Lightroom CC (cloud-based) without conversion.

.DNG Presets:

  • Compatibility: Lightroom Mobile (iOS and Android), Lightroom CC (cloud-based), and Lightroom Classic CC.
  • These presets are actually DNG (Digital Negative) image files with preset settings embedded as metadata, making them versatile for mobile and desktop use.
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