At Evoto, we understand the importance of maintaining a smooth and efficient workflow for our users. To help bridge the gap between Lightroom Classic(LrC) and Evoto, we’ve introduced support for importing and exporting lrcat files. This functionality allows users to seamlessly switch between Lightroom Classic for color grading and project management, and Evoto for powerful image editing. In this guide, we’ll explore the key use cases, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making the most of this feature.

 

Why Lrcat Integration Matters

For many photographers and editors, Lightroom Classic is the go-to software for color grading and image management. However, Evoto’s advanced AI-driven editing tools offer additional creative possibilities. By allowing users to import and export Lrcat files, Evoto makes it easy to use both programs in tandem—enabling you to elevate your work without sacrificing convenience.

 

Use Cases for Lrcat Import and Export

Evoto as an Intermediate Editing Step

In this workflow, Lightroom Classic is used primarily for color grading and project management. Once the initial adjustments are made in Lightroom, users can switch to Evoto to apply advanced edits before returning the images to Lightroom for further management and editing.

Evoto as the Final Editing Stage

Alternatively, users may choose to perform their final edits in Evoto before exporting the completed images. In this scenario, Evoto serves as the last step in the workflow, ensuring the final images are polished and ready for presentation.

 

How to Use Lrcat Import and Export in Evoto

Step 1: Prepare Your Lrcat in Lightroom
Start by creating an lrcat in Lightroom or by using your existing catalog. This lrcat will serve as the foundation for importing into Evoto.

Step 2: Import the Lrcat Into Evoto
Open Evoto and simply drag and drop your lrcat file into the software, or create a new project and select the lrcat to open it. Make sure to check whether you want to import the color settings, especially if you’ve made color adjustments in Lightroom that you want to preserve in Evoto.

Step 3: Edit the Images in Evoto
Now, you’re ready to edit the images contained in the lrcat using Evoto’s powerful tools.

Step 4: Export the Lrcat
Once your edits are complete, select Export Lrcat. You have two options when exporting back to the original catalog:

• Non-RAW Replacement: This will replace the original non-RAW images (such as JPG or TIFF) with the Evoto-edited versions. A backup of the original images will be created to allow for future re-edits if necessary.

• Export Color Parameters: If non-RAW replacement is not selected, the original images will retain the changes in color settings without being replaced.

Step 5: Save to a Specified Location
You can choose to save the updated lrcat to a specific folder or to your desktop. If you prefer, you can also export the lrcat as a new file instead of replacing the original. This new lrcat can then be merged back with the main Lightroom catalog to combine the edited and original images.

Key Considerations

Should You Check “Color Setting” When Importing Lrcat?

If you’ve made adjustments to the color parameters in Lightroom Classic and want those changes to be reflected in Evoto, you should check the option to import the color settings. However, due to differences in color processing between the two programs, not all adjustments will carry over—only those related to basic color sliders.

What is a “Color Setting” and Which Elements Can Be Transferred?

In simple terms, the color setting refers to slider movements and changes in numerical values, not the full color representation of the image. Only color adjustments that have equivalent functionality in both Lightroom and Evoto can be transferred. For instance, features like perspective correction and lens blur will not carry over. If you need to transfer all edits from Lightroom Classic, use the Open With option and select the copy that includes Lightroom Classic adjustments.

 

Can RAW Images Be Imported via Lrcat?

Yes, RAW images can be imported and returned to the original lrcat. However, direct RAW export is not supported when using the Open With option—images must be exported in TIFF or JPG formats.

What is Non-RAW Replacement?

Non-RAW replacement refers to using the Evoto-edited image to overwrite the original non-RAW (JPG, TIFF, PNG) file in Lightroom. This reduces the number of files you need to manage, showing only the final result in Lightroom. Evoto will create a backup of the original image to allow for re-editing without additional cost.

Where Can I Find the Original Image After Export?

When exporting as a new lrcat, users can choose to export the original images. If you don’t want the original image replaced, be sure not to select the non-RAW replacement option. The original images will be saved in a separate folder within the export directory.

How to Re-edit Specific Images in the Original Lrcat

If the image already exists in Evoto’s catalog, you can re-edit it within Evoto and export it back to the original lrcat or as a new lrcat.

If new images are added to the original lrcat, you can right-click to open them in Evoto, edit them, and export them back to the original or new lrcat.

The ability to import and export lrcat files in Evoto is designed to make your editing workflow more flexible and efficient. Whether you’re using Evoto as an intermediate or final editing stage, you can easily switch between Lightroom and Evoto without disrupting your process. By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate Evoto into your Lightroom workflow and enhance your image editing capabilities.