How Do I Import Photos From Camera to Lightroom?

To import photos from your camera to Lightroom, open Lightroom Classic and access the import window.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Open Lightroom Classic: Launch the Adobe Lightroom Classic application on your computer.

2. Access the Import Window: There are two primary ways to open the import window:

   • Method 1: Click the Import Button: Go to the Library module. In the bottom-left corner, you'll find an "Import" button. Click this button.

   • Method 2: Use the File Menu: Navigate to the "File" menu at the top of the screen and select "Import Photos and Video."

3. Connect Your Camera or Card Reader: Ensure your camera is connected to your computer via USB cable, or insert your camera's memory card into a card reader that is connected to your computer.

4. Select Your Source: In the import window, Lightroom will detect connected devices or storage locations. Choose your camera or memory card as the source for importing. The source will appear in the left-hand panel.

5. Choose Your Import Method: Select how you want Lightroom to handle your photos. Options typically include:

   • Copy: Copies the photos from your camera or card to a new location on your computer. This is the most common and recommended method.

   • Move: Moves the photos from your camera or card to a new location, deleting them from the original source. Use this with caution.

   • Add: Adds the photos to the Lightroom catalog without moving them. Only use this if the photos are already on your computer's hard drive in the desired location.

6. Specify Destination Folder: If you choose "Copy" or "Move", specify where you want Lightroom to store your photos on your computer. You can create new folders, rename folders, and organize your photos during import.

7. Apply Import Settings (Optional): On the right-hand panel of the import window, you can apply various settings to your imported photos, such as:

   • File Renaming: Rename your files during import using a specific naming convention.
   • Develop Settings: Apply preset develop settings to your photos as they are imported.
   • Keywords: Add relevant keywords to your photos to help with organization and searching.
   • Metadata: Add copyright information and other metadata to your photos.

8. Click "Import": Once you have configured all your settings, click the "Import" button (usually located in the bottom-right corner) to begin the import process. Lightroom will copy (or move) the photos to your specified location and add them to your catalog.

9. Safely Disconnect Your Camera/Card Reader: After the import is complete, safely eject your camera or card reader from your computer.

By following these steps, you can successfully import your photos from your camera to Lightroom Classic and begin editing and organizing them.