Best Adobe Lightroom online Courses in 2025

Looking to master Adobe Lightroom in 2025? Here's a quick rundown of the best online courses to help you improve your photo editing skills, whether you're a beginner or a pro.

Key Takeaways:

• Upskillist: Adobe Lightroom Mastery: Ideal for beginners and intermediates with a 7-day free trial and flexible subscription.
• Lightroom Academy by Adobe: Official Adobe training with live, on-demand, and private options for all skill levels.
• The Lightroom System by Matt Kloskowski: A one-time purchase ($99.99) with lifetime access, focused on Lightroom Classic workflows.
• LinkedIn Learning: Lightroom Classic Essential Training: Subscription-based, beginner-friendly, with a 4.8/5 rating and mobile access.

Quick Comparison Table:

Choose the course that fits your goals, schedule, and learning style. Whether you need hands-on practice, official Adobe insights, or a flexible subscription, there's an option for everyone.

The Ultimate Beginner Course to Master Lightroom

What to Look for in an Adobe Lightroom Online Course

Choosing the right Adobe Lightroom course can save you time, money, and frustration. With so many options available, it’s essential to know what separates a worthwhile course from one that falls short. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating your options.

Look for Content Covering Both Lightroom Versions. Whether you use Lightroom Classic or Lightroom’s cloud-based version, the course should cover both. For example, Lightroom Classic has seen impressive performance upgrades, like a 2x boost in image navigation speed in the Develop module. On the mobile side, RAW image load times in grid view on Lightroom for Android have been slashed by 88%. Having up-to-date information ensures you’re learning with the latest tools and features.

Adobe’s recent AI tools are game-changers, and the best courses will incorporate them. At Adobe MAX in October 2024, Adobe introduced features like Quick Actions for mobile and web, which use AI to create masks automatically based on photo subjects. These tools make editing portraits easier by detecting features like teeth, eyes, and skin, while Generative Remove lets users eliminate distractions by circling or brushing over them. Courses that teach these features can significantly streamline your workflow.

Instructor Expertise Is Non-Negotiable. A knowledgeable instructor can make or break your learning experience. Take Phil Ebiner’s course, for instance - it’s updated regularly (most recently in March 2025), includes 23 hours of content across 169 lectures, and holds a 4.6-star rating. Ratings like these often reflect an instructor’s ability to teach both technical skills and practical applications effectively.

Hands-On Practice Is Key. The best courses go beyond lectures. They provide downloadable source files and structured exercises that let you apply what you’ve learned. These real-world editing tasks are crucial for building skills you can actually use.

Comprehensive Workflow Coverage Matters. A good course walks you through every step of the Lightroom process, from importing photos to exporting them. This includes organizing your library, making basic adjustments, applying advanced corrections, and optimizing exports for various platforms. Learning the entire workflow ensures you’re prepared for any editing scenario.

Transparent Pricing Helps You Plan. In the U.S., Lightroom courses typically range from $119 to $497, with certification exams costing around $225. Many platforms offer trial periods or money-back guarantees, giving you the chance to test the course before committing financially.

Mobile and Desktop Access Is a Plus. Since Lightroom works across platforms, it’s helpful to choose a course that allows you to learn on both mobile and desktop devices. This flexibility makes it easier to fit learning into your schedule, whether you’re commuting or traveling.

Regular Updates Keep the Course Relevant. Lightroom evolves quickly, so courses need to stay current. High-rated courses - like those with a 4.7/5.0 rating from 6,100 reviews or a 4.8/5.0 rating from 1,200 reviews - tend to maintain their quality through consistent updates.

Certification Options Can Boost Your Credibility. While not essential for everyone, a certification can be a valuable addition to your resume, especially if you’re working with clients or applying for photography jobs.

Ultimately, the best course for you will depend on your goals and learning style. Whether you’re a beginner building foundational skills or an experienced user refining advanced techniques, focusing on these factors will help you find a course that’s worth your investment.

1. Upskillist: Adobe Lightroom Mastery Online Course

Upskillist's Adobe Lightroom Mastery Online Course is designed to help photographers sharpen their editing skills through practical, hands-on learning. The course focuses on creating an efficient workflow, enabling users to edit smarter and faster.

It covers everything from Lightroom’s essential tools to advanced techniques, tailoring the experience to suit your skill level.

Comprehensive Lightroom Training (Classic and CC)

The course dives into both Lightroom Classic and the cloud-based CC version. You'll learn how to organize your photos effectively using Folders and Collections, as well as how to correct and enhance images like a pro.

With 8 lesson guides and 37 video tutorials, the program takes you from the basics to advanced editing techniques, building a workflow that combines tools strategically for professional results.

Tailored for Beginners and Intermediate Users

Whether you're just starting out or already have some experience, this course adapts to your needs. Beginners get clear, step-by-step guidance on Lightroom's core features, while intermediate users can refine their workflow and tackle advanced editing challenges. From organizing your photo library to streamlining your editing process, the course addresses common hurdles photographers face.

Flexible Pricing and Access

Upskillist offers a 7-day free trial, giving you full access to the Adobe Lightroom Mastery course and the entire platform. This trial period lets you explore the lessons and decide if the course fits your learning style - without any upfront commitment.

With anytime, anywhere access, the course is perfect for photographers with busy schedules. Plus, you can cancel before the trial ends, making it a low-risk option for learning.

In addition to Lightroom, Upskillist provides courses in photography, video editing, graphic design, and more, making it a one-stop platform for expanding your creative toolkit.

2. Lightroom Academy by Adobe

If you're looking for official and up-to-date training straight from the source, Lightroom Academy by Adobe is an excellent choice. It’s designed to provide expert guidance based on Adobe’s latest updates, ensuring you stay current with all things Lightroom.

Comprehensive Tutorials for Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC

The Academy offers in-depth tutorials covering both Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC. These lessons dive into the essentials of editing, organizing, and sharing photos. Whether you’re learning the basics or exploring advanced workflows, the platform walks you through Lightroom’s extensive features step by step. It even integrates photo management tips with interface training, making it easier to navigate the software’s robust tools.

Tailored Learning for All Skill Levels

Lightroom Academy is built for everyone, whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist. The courses are structured to meet you where you are in your learning journey.

• Beginners: Start with the basics - learn how to import photos, make simple adjustments, and organize your files. These foundational tutorials focus on mastering the core functions of Lightroom.
• Intermediate users: Tackle project-based lessons that refine your editing skills and streamline your workflow. These courses introduce advanced tools and techniques, helping you process multiple images efficiently.
• Advanced photographers: Explore specialized training that dives into complex features and multi-software integration. These lessons are perfect for creating sophisticated editing workflows across Adobe’s suite of tools.

Flexible Pricing and Access Options

Adobe offers a variety of pricing plans and access methods to suit different learning preferences and budgets.

• Live instructor-led courses: Available through learning.adobe.com, these sessions provide real-time guidance from Adobe experts. Flexible payment options make it easy to get started.
• On-demand training: Perfect for self-paced learners, this option lets you access lessons anytime through subscriptions like the All Access Learning Subscription or On-Demand Learning Subscription.
• Private training sessions: Ideal for teams or organizations, these sessions are available via a pre-paid Bank of Funds system, offering a tailored learning experience.

With its mix of live, on-demand, and private training options, Lightroom Academy ensures that learners can choose what works best for their schedule and goals.

3. The Lightroom System by Matt Kloskowski

The Lightroom System by Matt Kloskowski is a well-structured course designed to help photographers master Adobe Lightroom. It takes a practical, hands-on approach, focusing on real-world editing techniques. With its clear, step-by-step lessons, this course makes it easy to develop your skills efficiently. Let’s break down what the course offers in terms of content, skill levels, and pricing.

Comprehensive Focus on Lightroom Classic

This course includes 65 lessons spanning 7 hours of video content divided into 11 mini-courses, all centered on Lightroom Classic. It’s perfect for photographers who prefer the desktop version of Lightroom for its in-depth editing controls.

Each mini-course dives into specific Lightroom features, covering everything from importing and organizing photos to advanced editing techniques. Whether you’re looking to master the Develop module, fine-tune local adjustments, or optimize your workflow, the course’s structured format allows you to focus on the topics that matter most to you. To make learning even more interactive, it includes practice photos and a 25-page PDF guide for additional support.

Designed for Beginners and Early-Intermediate Users

The Lightroom System is tailored for beginners and early-intermediate users, making it an excellent starting point for anyone new to Lightroom. Matt Kloskowski has crafted the course to serve as a foundational guide, offering straightforward explanations for essential topics.

For those with some prior experience, the course doubles as a reference tool. You can skip the basics and zero in on areas where you need improvement, thanks to its modular format. This flexibility is especially helpful for self-learners who want to address specific gaps in their Lightroom knowledge without wasting time on concepts they’ve already mastered.

Pricing and Accessibility

The Lightroom System is available for a one-time purchase of $99.99 (discounted from $179.99), giving you lifetime access to all course materials. Unlike subscription-based models, this setup ensures you can revisit the content whenever you need it. Plus, you can use the course on up to four computers, making it ideal for photographers who work across multiple devices.

For those looking to expand their skills, there’s a bundle option that combines The Lightroom System with The Photoshop System for $179.99 (originally $358). This bundle offers a cost-effective way to dive deeper into Adobe’s creative tools.

The course also includes free updates through 2025, ensuring that your training stays aligned with Lightroom Classic’s latest features and interface changes. Videos are available for both streaming and download, so you can learn at your own pace - whether you’re online or offline.

4. Lightroom Classic Training on LinkedIn Learning

If you’re a photographer who prefers the comprehensive tools of Lightroom Classic, LinkedIn Learning offers a tailored training solution. This platform provides structured courses designed specifically for Lightroom Classic, making it a great choice for those who rely on this software for detailed photo editing. With its focused approach, LinkedIn Learning aligns well with the growing demands of digital photography.

In-Depth Training on Adobe Lightroom Classic

The Lightroom Classic courses on LinkedIn Learning guide users through a four-step workflow: importing, organizing, editing, and sharing. These steps cover all the essential features of the software, ensuring that you can confidently navigate its interface.

You’ll start with lessons on importing photos and organizing them using tools like keywords, ratings, collections, and even facial recognition. Moving into the Develop module, the training dives into key editing techniques such as cropping, applying camera profiles, sharpening, reducing noise, and using automatic adjustments. The course wraps up with practical guidance on exporting and printing your images.

This structured approach ensures you focus on mastering Lightroom Classic’s most important tools without feeling overwhelmed by less-used features.

Suitable for Different Skill Levels

The Lightroom Classic Essential Training course is designed to cater to both beginners and intermediate users. With a runtime of 4 hours and 22 minutes, it bridges knowledge gaps and helps users enhance their skills, regardless of their starting point.

Alison Kase, a marketing professional, shared her experience on October 28, 2024, stating that as an intermediate self-taught user, the course provided "gap-knowledge" that would make future editing tasks easier.

The course has earned an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating from 1,260 reviews. Learners frequently praise its ability to simplify complex topics, making it an excellent resource for beginners while still offering valuable insights for those with prior experience.

Additionally, LinkedIn Learning offers specialized courses such as "Lightroom Classic: Tips and Quick Fixes" and "Photoshop and Lightroom: Masking Essentials." These are perfect for users who want to focus on specific techniques, with content tailored for beginner to intermediate levels.

Flexible Pricing and Access

LinkedIn Learning operates on a subscription model, with pricing that varies depending on your profile and billing country. A 1-month free trial is available, allowing you to explore the Lightroom Classic training and other courses without any upfront cost.

Once subscribed, you gain access to the entire LinkedIn Learning library, which includes thousands of professional development courses. The platform is accessible on tablets and phones, offering convenience for learning on the go.

This subscription model not only provides ongoing access to updated content but also opens the door to courses in other creative and professional fields. For photographers looking to expand their expertise beyond Lightroom, this flexibility adds extra value to the subscription.

Course Comparison Table

Here's a helpful comparison of some of the top Adobe Lightroom courses available in 2025. This table provides a quick overview to assist you in choosing the right course based on your needs. For more details, refer to the breakdowns above.

This table highlights key features, while the following sections provide insights tailored to different learning needs.

Pricing Breakdown and Value Analysis

The courses offer a mix of pricing models, from one-time payments to subscription plans. For those who prefer owning their content, Matt Kloskowski's The Lightroom System is a one-time purchase at $99.99. In contrast, subscription-based options like LinkedIn Learning and Upskillist provide ongoing access to a broader range of learning materials.

LinkedIn Learning includes a one-month free trial and offers regional pricing, making it an attractive option for those seeking flexibility and access to thousands of courses beyond Lightroom. Upskillist provides a 7-day free trial, followed by a subscription, and incorporates AI tools like Compass AI and Pathfinder to adapt to individual learning styles.

Skill Level Recommendations

Each course caters to specific skill levels, making it easier to find the right fit:

• Beginners: LinkedIn Learning's structured, easy-to-follow content is great for those just starting, covering everything from importing photos to sharing them.
• Hobbyists: Matt Kloskowski's workflow-focused system is ideal for enthusiasts looking to streamline their editing process with practical tips from an experienced instructor.
• Professionals: Upskillist offers a comprehensive program with advanced tools and personalized learning paths, making it a strong choice for those aiming to refine their expertise.

Rating and User Satisfaction

Among the listed courses, LinkedIn Learning stands out with a 4.8/5 rating from over 1,260 reviews. This high rating reflects its accessible, user-friendly approach and the value users find in its practical lessons.

Unique Value Propositions

Each course brings something distinct to the table:

• Adobe's Lightroom Academy ensures you're learning directly from the source, with the latest updates and tools.
• Matt Kloskowski's Lightroom System focuses on workflow efficiency, offering practical insights that save time.
• Upskillist integrates advanced AI tools and continuous assessments to keep learners engaged and on track.
• LinkedIn Learning combines mobile-friendly lessons with professional networking opportunities, helping users build skills while advancing their careers.

These options cater to a variety of learning preferences and career goals, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Conclusion

Picking the right Lightroom course in 2025 can completely reshape how you approach photography and editing. The courses we've highlighted cater to various skill levels and learning styles. Whether it's Upskillist's AI-driven personalized learning, LinkedIn Learning's mobile-friendly design, or Matt Kloskowski's workflow-centered approach, there's something for everyone. The key is finding a course that aligns with your creative goals.

Think about what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to get a handle on photo organization, dive into advanced editing, or refine your professional workflow? The best courses not only teach you new skills but also help you build on your existing knowledge, pushing your creativity to new heights.

Structured Lightroom training also helps you avoid the common mistakes that self-taught editors often face. For photographers aiming to stay competitive, keeping up with new tools and techniques is essential. Features like Lightroom's Generative Remove, powered by AI, are game-changers for creating polished, professional-quality images, especially for social media.

The beauty of online learning is its flexibility - it fits into your schedule, no matter how busy life gets. Whether you opt for a subscription service with regular updates or a one-time comprehensive course, investing in your Lightroom skills pays off both creatively and professionally.

FAQs

What should I look for when choosing the best Adobe Lightroom online course in 2025?

When choosing an Adobe Lightroom online course in 2025, there are a few important things to keep in mind to make sure it aligns with your goals. Start by evaluating the course content. The ideal course should cover everything from organizing your photos and basic editing techniques to diving into Lightroom's more advanced features. Courses that include hands-on assignments and practical examples can make it easier to apply what you learn.

Next, pay attention to the instructor's expertise. Courses led by seasoned professionals with positive reviews often offer deeper insights and useful tips that can elevate your learning experience. Lastly, think about the course format and cost. Whether you prefer the flexibility of on-demand lessons or the interaction of live sessions, pick a course that works with your schedule and falls within your budget. Don’t forget to check for any available discounts or payment plans to make it even more accessible.

How do Adobe's new AI tools introduced in 2024 improve the photo editing experience in Lightroom?

Adobe's AI Tools Revolutionize Lightroom in 2024

In 2024, Adobe introduced a suite of AI-driven tools in Lightroom, transforming the way photographers and editors approach photo editing. One of the standout features, Quick Actions, uses AI to automatically create precise masks around subjects and recommend relevant editing tools. This makes adjustments faster and far more intuitive, cutting down on the time spent on manual edits.

Another game-changing addition is Generative Remove, which leverages AI to erase unwanted objects from photos and seamlessly fill in the gaps. Whether it's a distracting element in the background or an object that doesn't belong, this tool simplifies what used to be a tedious and complex process.

For those looking to fine-tune tones and colors, Adaptive Profiles dynamically adjust these elements based on the unique characteristics of each photo. This ensures polished, professional-quality results without extensive manual tweaking. Together, these tools make Lightroom a powerful ally for both beginners and seasoned photographers, streamlining workflows and delivering stunning edits with ease.

Why should I choose a course that teaches both Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC?

Choosing a course that teaches both Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC equips you with a complete understanding of Adobe’s photo editing tools. Lightroom Classic is ideal for professional photographers who require advanced editing capabilities and detailed desktop organization. Meanwhile, Lightroom CC focuses on cloud-based editing, allowing you to access and work on your photos seamlessly across multiple devices, no matter where you are.

By mastering both versions, you’ll have the versatility to pick the right tool for the task at hand. Whether you’re diving into intricate desktop edits or need the convenience of mobile accessibility, knowing how to use both ensures you’re ready for any editing challenge, giving your photography skills a serious boost.

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