Lightroom Presets vs. Filters: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?

Lightroom Presets vs. Filters: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?

If you’ve ever edited a photo on Instagram or in Lightroom, you’ve probably seen the terms “filters” and “presets.” They might sound similar, but they’re not the same — and knowing the difference can completely change how your photos look and feel.

In this guide, we’ll break down what makes presets different from filters, when to use each one, and which option is best for creating consistent, professional-looking edits.

What Are Filters?

Filters are built-in, one-click effects you find in apps like Instagram, VSCO, or TikTok. They’re designed for speed and simplicity — just tap, and your photo instantly changes.

✅ Pros of Filters:

  • Quick and easy (no editing knowledge needed)

  • Free or included with social media apps

  • Good for casual, everyday use

❌ Cons of Filters:

  • Limited customization

  • Can make your feed look inconsistent

  • Often overused, so photos don’t stand out

Edited with instagram filter

What Are Presets?

Presets are customizable editing settings saved inside Adobe Lightroom (mobile or desktop). Instead of a one-size-fits-all filter, a preset adjusts multiple editing sliders (exposure, contrast, highlights, tones, color grading, etc.) to give your photo a specific look.

✅ Pros of Presets:

  • Full control and customization

  • Professional, polished results

  • Perfect for building a consistent aesthetic or brand

  • Reusable on hundreds of photos with one click

❌ Cons of Presets:

  • Slight learning curve if you’re new to Lightroom

  • Not always free (premium creators sell them)

👉 “We covered this in more detail in our full blog: What Are Lightroom Presets? (2025 Guide for Creators & Influencers).”

Before and after comparison of a person wearing a white outfit with a plain background edited with Matte Lightroom Preset

 

Feature Filters Presets
App Social apps (Instagram, TikTok, VSCO) Adobe Lightroom (mobile & desktop)
Customization Limited Full control
Quality Basic, quick edit Professional finish
Consistency Hard to match across photos Creates a unified look
Audience Casual users Content creators, influencers, photographers
Lightroom Presets vs Filters

Which Should You Use?

It depends on your goals.

  • If you just want to post a quick selfie or travel snap, filters are fine.

  • If you’re serious about content creation, want your feed to look consistent, and need professional-looking edits, presets are the way to go.

Think of it like this:

  • Filters = fast food 🍔 (quick, easy, not unique)

  • Presets = a home-cooked meal by a chef 👨🍳 (crafted, customized, and way more impressive)

Final Thoughts

Both filters and presets have their place, but if you’re looking to stand out online, presets give you the creative edge. They let you transform your photos with one click — while still keeping the flexibility to adjust every detail.

Before and after comparison of a person standing on a concrete path edited with Influencer Lightroom Preset

 

👉 Want to try it for yourself? Check out our Lightroom Preset Collections and give your photos the professional look they deserve.