Quick answer: To install a preset in Lightroom Mobile, open the free Lightroom app, import the preset file (a .dng or .xmp), then save its settings as a preset: tap the ⋯ menu → Create Preset. After that you apply your look to any photo in one tap — no desktop, no subscription needed.
What you need
- The free Adobe Lightroom app (iOS or Android) — presets work on the free tier.
- Your preset files. Mobile presets ship either as
.dngphotos (the classic method) or as.xmpfiles (newer, cleaner).
Method 1 — install .dng presets (works everywhere)
- Save the preset
.dngfiles to your phone (Files / Photos). - In Lightroom, tap Add Photos → import the
.dngfiles. They look like plain photos — that’s normal. - Open one, tap ⋯ (top right) → Create Preset. Name it, pick a group, tap the check.
- Now open your own photo → Presets → your group → tap to apply.
Method 2 — install .xmp presets (fastest)
- Open Lightroom → Presets panel → tap the ⋯ → Import Presets.
- Select the
.xmpfiles. They appear instantly in your preset list — no dummy photos needed.
How to adjust a preset after applying
A preset is a starting point, not a filter you’re stuck with. After tapping it, lower the Amount slider (on the preset itself) for a subtler look, or fine-tune Exposure and White Balance — every phone camera meters differently, so a small tweak keeps skin tones right.
Why presets look different on your photo
- Different lighting — a preset built for daylight will look off indoors. Fix White Balance first.
- Over/under-exposed source — nudge Exposure back to neutral before judging the look.
- ProRAW / RAW vs JPEG — presets have the most room to work on RAW/ProRAW files. Shoot RAW when you can.
Mobile presets that match your desktop & video
Most preset packs are phone-only. CHROMA gives you one color signature across everything — the POCKET GRADE (CHR-05) pack includes mobile .dng profiles built for Lightroom Mobile and iPhone ProRAW, and the same look exists as a desktop preset and a video LUT in the other packs:
- POCKET GRADE (CHR-05) — mobile-first profiles, $9.
- NORDIC TEAL (CHR-01) — cinematic teal-and-orange for photo + video.
- The CHROMA bundle — all six packs, desktop + mobile + LUTs.
New to this? Start with how to install Lightroom presets or grab our free presets.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use presets in the free Lightroom Mobile app?
Yes. Importing and applying presets works on the free tier of Lightroom Mobile — you don’t need a paid Adobe subscription.
How do I install .dng presets on my phone?
Import the .dng files into Lightroom as photos, open one, tap the ⋯ menu and choose Create Preset. The look is then saved for use on any photo.
Why does the preset look different on my photo?
Usually because your lighting or exposure differs from the sample. Adjust White Balance and Exposure first, then lower the preset Amount to taste.
Do presets work on iPhone ProRAW?
Yes, and they work best there — ProRAW keeps far more color data, so presets and profiles have more room to shape the look.
