Lightroom

[AJAR]

LIGHTROOM...............

I currently use Photoshop CS4 BUT was wondering would folk recommend that I purchase Lightroom (and why)?
If so, what version?
Also, is there other related software on the market that would be beneficial for me to acquire?

 

[Craikeybaby]

My suggestion would be to download the beta of Lightroom 4 (or at least the Lightroom 3 trial) and see how you get on with it.

 

[squishy]

What do you currently use to organise your photos?

Lightroom is a combination of powerful organisation tools and comparatively basic but well thought out processing. It's editing potential doesn't really come close to the plethora of available tools in photoshop, but it's got all the stuff 99% of photographers need on a daily basis, very well laid out. It also uses non-destructive editing, and allows you to create multiple different versions ("snapshots") of photos processed in different ways without saving a new file each time.

This comparison is pretty good http://www.photocitizen.com/reviews/adobe-lightroom-3-vs-photoshop-cs5-which-to-buy/

I second Lewis' recommendation, download the LR4 beta or LR3 for the free month trial and see what you make of it before spending.

 

[JohnC6]

I use LR3 and will have a look at the Beta 4. version.

Adam hits the nail on the head..it has everything that 99% of people need. I get by with CS2 for actions that LR3 doesn't have.I just use the 'Open up in ' menu and select CS2, do whatever and bring it back.I use it for Text, framing(borders) and I prefer the clone tool in there too and a couple of others.. like the use of masks so your CS4 will still be needed.The strength in Lightroom lies in its comprehensive Library mode. The labelling, cataloguing key-wording..you can access any photo so quickly using these tools. I find Photoshop has way too much that I'd never use-I don't do creative work on photos. Lightroom is just the job.and it's very popular so there are a lot of excellent tutorials about too.It has added a grad tool and that is really useful although I prefer to use grad filters when taking the photo..As Lewis suggests,try the free trial of LR3 and also beta 4.