Lightroom tip: direct editing

Adobe Lightroom is a powerful application, but its modular structure is sometimes annoying (especially for ex-Aperture users like me). It you’re working in the Library module, for example adding keywords to images, and you notice that the image needs a small edit, you have to go to the Develop module, apply the edit and then return to the Library module. Three steps instead of one. What you may not realize however, is that the shortcuts for editing tools, such as the ‘R’ key for the Crop Tool or the ‘Q’ key for the Spot Removal Tool, can also be invoked from the Library module. If you are in the Loupe view in the Library module and you want to straighten a crooked horizon for example, all you have to do is press the ‘R’ key to switch to the Develop module and activate the Crop Tool. After you’ve applied the rotation, just press the ‘E’ key to switch back to Loupe view in the Library module. I have a list of the most used shortcuts next to my computer, so I don’t have to learn all these keys by heart.