Adobe Lightroom: Classic 12.3

Adobe Lightroom Classic 12.3 (released April 2023) is a major update that introduced significant AI-powered tools, most notably a new denoising engine that fundamentally changed how users handle high-ISO images. Key New Features

AI Denoise: The headline feature, this tool uses machine learning to reduce noise in RAW files while preserving fine details and sharpness. It typically performs best at its default 50% setting and outperforms previous manual sliders by distinguishing between actual detail and noise. Masking Enhancements:

Curves in Masks: Users can now use Tone Curves within a mask for precise, local adjustments to contrast and color.

New People Masking: Added automatic detection for Facial Hair and Clothing, allowing for quick adjustments to specific attire or beards.

Develop Panel Indicators: New eye icons and dots appear on panels (like Basic, Tone Curve, or Detail) to indicate at a glance which tools have been used on an image.

Photoshop Integration: Improved workflow for opening multiple images as smart object layers in Photoshop, and the ability to choose which Photoshop version to open files into. Performance & Usability Adobe Lightroom Classic 12.3

Library Browsing: This version improved scrolling performance in the Library module, particularly for the Published Grid and People View on macOS.

Editing History: Mask names are now automatically added to history steps when settings like exposure or contrast are changed, making it easier to track specific local edits.

Comparison to Third-Party Tools: Reviews suggest the AI Denoise is highly competitive with specialized software like Topaz Photo AI and DxO PureRAW, often providing comparable results directly within the Lightroom workflow. Pros and Cons Exciting New Features in Lightroom Classic Version 12.3!!!

Workspace essentials

• Library module — organize, rate, cull, and batch metadata.
• Develop module — raw editing and local adjustments.
• Map, Book, Slideshow, Print, Web — output and ancillary tasks.
• Panels: Left (Navigator, Presets, History), Center (preview), Right (Histogram, Tone, Tools, Panels), Bottom (Filmstrip).

Tip: Press F6/F7/F8 to toggle Filmstrip, Side panels, and Top panels quickly.

7. Masking (Advanced Local Adjustments) – Major in 12.3

Shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+M / Cmd+Shift+M

How to mask:

1. Click Masking panel → Create New Mask.

2. Choose type:

   • Select Subject (AI)
   • Select Sky (AI)
   • Select People (NEW in 12.3) – choose person, face, skin, lips, etc.
   • Color Range / Luminance Range
   • Brush (paint mask)
   • Linear Gradient / Radial Gradient
   • Range (depth/color/luminance)

3. Intersect / Subtract (NEW) – combine masks (e.g., Subject minus Eyes).

4. Copy/Paste masks between photos (NEW) – right-click mask → Copy, then paste in another image. Adobe Lightroom Classic 12

Adjustments within a mask:

• Exposure, Contrast, Highlights, Shadows, Whites, Blacks
• Saturation, Sharpness, Noise, Moiré, Defringe
• Color overlay (Color Temperature / Color picker)

Example: Mask a face → reduce Texture/Clarity slightly for skin softening, increase Exposure slightly for brightening without affecting background.

Part 8: How to Install or Update to Lightroom Classic 12.3

Updating is straightforward, but there are a few caveats.

Step-by-step:

1. Open the Creative Cloud Desktop application.
2. Go to the "Apps" section.
3. Find "Lightroom Classic."
4. Click the three vertical dots next to the "Update" button.
5. Ensure "Auto-update" is enabled, or manually click "Update."
6. Wait for the 1.5GB download to complete.
7. Restart your computer to clear old cache files.

System Requirements (Minimum for 12.3):

• OS: Windows 10 (20H2) or macOS 11 (Big Sur)
• RAM: 8GB (16GB recommended, especially for AI masks)
• GPU: DirectX 12 or Metal-capable GPU with 2GB VRAM (4GB for 4K+ monitors)
• Storage: 5GB free space (SSD highly recommended)

Warning: Version 12.3 drops support for macOS 10.15 (Catalina). If you’re on an older Mac, you cannot install this update.