What's the difference between general, layer, tool, and brush presets?
FollowWhat is a preset?
What is a tool preset?
Tool presets make global changes to an image. They can be stacked and should be applied alone or after using a general preset. Tool presets change one preset setting, but keep all other previous changes constant. Tool presets are also known as post add presets.
Examples created using the DigiFilm | Portraits collection by ColorMade
What is a layer preset?
Layer presets make global changes to an image. They create a solid mask, layer, or color wash over an image. They can be stacked and should be applied alone or after using a general preset. Note: Layer presets are not to be confused with Photo Overlays which are incompatible with Lightroom.
Examples created using the DigiFilm | Portraits collection by ColorMade
What is a local adjustment brush?
Brushes make local changes to an images. By comparison, presets make global changes to an image. Brushes may be used in addition to any type of preset, although we recommend using them after application of a preset. Brushes are only compatible with Adobe Lightroom Classic, so they are not compatible with Lightroom (CC, cloud-based) or Adobe Photoshop Camera Raw (ACR). This compatibility is established by Adobe.
Local Adjustment Brush Presets are not found in the same location as general, layer, and tool presets. Rather the Local Adjustment Presets are located as Effect options for the Local Adjustment Brush:
In the latest versions of Lightroom Classic this brush is found under the "Masking Tool":
Once "Brush" is selected, you can find installed Local Adjustment brushes under "Effect:" options:
In earlier versions of Lightroom Classic this brush is found as it's own icon underneath the Histogram, and installed local adjustment brushes are available under "Effect:" options:
For some great examples of brushes in action, check out the following posts over on our blog:
How to use the Local Adjustment Brush
Using Brushes as a last step in Retouching