Mark Today’s Question
When I complete post-processing an image in Lightroom Classic and print it, I want to ensure that the version remains unchanged. If I decide to revisit and re-edit the original file (not a virtual copy) later, I don’t want those changes to affect the “print” version. I aim to have a locked version that I can reliably reprint for sales while still having the flexibility to create new edits. Is this possible? If so, how?
Mark’s Answer
Yes, you can preserve a print-ready version of the image and reimport it into your Lightroom Classic catalog for future reference. You can achieve this by using the Export feature in Lightroom Classic or by saving a separate derivative file if you’re preparing the image for print in Photoshop.
Newsletter
More…..
If you want to preserve a print-ready version of an image for easy reprinting in the future, creating a derivative file is a useful approach. In Lightroom Classic, you can add this version back to your catalog to keep track of your print-ready images.
Exporting a Print-Ready Image in Lightroom Classic
If you’re finalizing the image in Lightroom Classic, you can export a copy and reimport it into the catalog during the export process.
- Select the Image – In the Library module, choose the image you want to preserve.
- Export the Image – Click the Export button at the bottom of the left panel.
- Set Export Location – In the Export dialog:
- Choose “Same folder as original photo” from the “Export To” dropdown.
- Uncheck “Put in Subfolder” to keep the file alongside the original.
- Check “Add to This Catalog” to automatically include the exported version in Lightroom.
- File Settings – Set TIFF as the image format with ZIP compression for optimal quality.
- Image Sizing – Uncheck “Resize to Fit” unless you need a specific output size.
- Finalize and Export – Adjust any other settings as needed and click Export to save the print-ready file.
Once exported, you can organize the new version by adding it to a collection, assigning keywords, or labeling it as a print-ready image for future use.
Preserving a Print Version with Photoshop
If you prepare images for print in Photoshop, follow these steps:
- In Lightroom Classic, go to Photo > Edit In > Edit In Adobe Photoshop.
- Make any necessary output adjustments, such as resizing or sharpening.
- Save and close the file—Lightroom will automatically add the updated version next to the original.
By following these steps, you ensure that your print-ready file remains intact while keeping the flexibility to create new edits from the original.
Did this help – If so would you like to treat me to a Coffee?
Thank you
