Quick answer: Free Lightroom presets are everywhere — Adobe includes some built in, and many creators give away a pack or two. They’re a great way to learn, but quality varies a lot and some sketchy sites bundle junk or malware. Below is where to get good free presets safely, what to watch out for, and when a paid pack is worth it.
Where to get free Lightroom presets safely
- Adobe’s built-in presets. Lightroom ships with free preset groups (Adobe Raw, Cinematic, Travel, Portrait). Open the Presets panel — they’re already there, no download needed.
- Reputable creators. Many photographers offer a free starter pack in exchange for an email. Stick to creators whose work you can actually see.
- Official brand freebies. Trusted brands often release a free single preset so you can try their style before buying the full pack.
What to watch out for with free presets
- Sketchy download sites. Avoid random “1000 free presets” sites — they often bundle adware or broken files. Download only from the creator or brand directly.
- Wrong file type. Make sure you get
.xmp(or.dngfor mobile). Old.lrtemplatefiles still work but are dated. - One-look-fits-all. A free preset built for a beach photo may look wrong on an indoor portrait. Presets are a starting point — always fine-tune exposure and white balance.
- No LUT for video. Most free presets are photo-only. If you also edit reels, you’ll want a matching
.cubeLUT.
Free vs paid presets — what’s the difference?
Free presets are perfect for learning and for casual edits. Paid packs usually add: consistent color science across many photos, camera-matched profiles, a matching video LUT, and support. If you post regularly and want a recognizable, consistent look, a paid pack pays for itself in time saved.
Try CHROMA — free starter and full packs
Want to try our color science before buying? Join the CHROMA list to get our free starter preset and be first to hear about new drops. When you’re ready for the full look:
- Each CHROMA pack includes a Lightroom
.xmppreset and a matching.cubeLUT. - The CHROMA bundle gives you all six packs at the best price.
New to presets? Start with how to install Lightroom presets and which pack fits your photos.
Frequently asked questions
Are there really free Lightroom presets?
Yes. Lightroom includes free built-in presets, and many creators and brands give away a free pack or single preset, usually in exchange for an email.
Are free presets safe to download?
They’re safe if you download directly from the creator or brand. Avoid random “thousands of free presets” sites, which can bundle adware or broken files.
Do free presets work on mobile?
Yes — the free Adobe Lightroom Mobile app imports .xmp presets, and some free presets are shared as .dng files you can turn into a preset.
Are paid presets worth it over free ones?
If you edit often and want a consistent, recognizable look — plus a matching video LUT and camera-tuned profiles — a paid pack saves time and gives more reliable results than scattered free presets.
