How Do I Resize in Lightroom Classic?

Lightroom Classic doesn't have a direct "resize" function in the way you might expect. You don't resize the original image directly. Instead, you achieve resizing by exporting a new copy of the image with your desired dimensions. This involves a combination of cropping (if needed) and specific export settings.

Here's how you resize an image in Lightroom Classic:

1. Make Your Edits: First, complete all your desired edits to the image within Lightroom Classic. This includes adjustments to exposure, color, and other settings.

2. Crop (Optional): If you need to change the aspect ratio or composition, use the Crop tool (press R). Crop before exporting if the dimensions need to be different.

3. Export the Image: This is where you control the final size.

   • Select the image you want to resize.
   • Go to File > Export... (or press Ctrl+Shift+E on Windows or Cmd+Shift+E on Mac).
   • In the Export dialog box, adjust the following settings:

4. Export Settings for Resizing:

   • File Settings: Choose your desired file format (JPEG is common for web use). Adjust the quality slider for JPEGs to balance file size and image quality.

   • Image Sizing: This is the crucial section for resizing.

     • Resize to Fit: Check this box.
     • Choose one of the following options from the dropdown menu:
       • Width & Height: Specify the maximum width and height in pixels. The image will be resized to fit within those dimensions while maintaining its aspect ratio.
       • Long Edge: Specify the maximum length of the longer side of the image in pixels. This is often the most straightforward method for consistent resizing. For example, setting the Long Edge to 2100px or 2600px (as suggested by some resources) will create images suitable for many web applications.
       • Short Edge: Specify the maximum length of the shorter side of the image in pixels.
       • Megapixels: Allows you to specify a maximum megapixel count for the exported image. Lightroom will then adjust the width and height to achieve that megapixel count.
     • Don't Enlarge: Make sure this box is checked if you don't want Lightroom to upscale images that are smaller than the dimensions you specify. If unchecked, small images could become blurry.
     • Resolution: Typically, for web use, a resolution of 72 pixels per inch (ppi) is sufficient. For printing, 300 ppi is common. Note that changing the resolution without resizing the pixels will only affect print size, not the digital image size.

5. Output Sharpening (Optional): Under "Output Sharpening," you can choose to sharpen the image for the intended output medium (Screen, Matte Paper, or Glossy Paper). This can help compensate for any softness introduced during resizing.

6. Export Location: Choose where you want to save the resized image.

7. Click "Export": Lightroom will create a new, resized copy of your image.

In summary, resizing in Lightroom Classic involves exporting a copy of your image and specifying the desired dimensions within the export settings. You control the final size through various options like "Long Edge," "Width & Height," or "Megapixels," combined with options to prevent upscaling.