Clunky work flow compared to Lightroom.If you want to delve into graphic design, Photoshop is your program!.Provides tools for advanced retouching or changing the shape of reality-warping, liquifying, etc.Workflow steps can be saved as actions for easy repetition.Variety of ways to make complicated selections.Advanced cloning that removes cumbersome elements easily.Advanced tools for canvas expansion or image resolution changes.Blend modes, masking, and opacity adjustments.Ability to blend multiple files for head swapping, compositing, adding skies, textures, or other elements that require the use of layers.

The power of Photoshop cannot be underestimated, however. I use Photoshop for very specific purposes and tend to save this program for the end of my workflow. Photoshop has many of the same features as Lightroom, especially when you utilize Camera Raw, which is a RAW editor very similar to LR.

Minimal graphic design elements like adding text elements or making advanced collages.

Fairly decent cloning and healing abilities for minor image manipulation.

Adjustment brush, gradient, and radial adjustments which allow you to adjust multiple effects on one mask.

Snapshots and Virtual Copies are perfect for exploring editing options.

Non-destructive editing that preserves file data.

Fast and easy photo books, slide shows, and web galleries.

Organization with collections and galleries.

Built in file management/cataloging system.

Here are a few reasons why Lightroom takes center stage for me in my own editing efforts: It works with JPEG too, but you can maximize your image potential if you use this program with RAW files. It can’t be beat for a RAW file workflow. I say primary, because both programs are great to have, but you may be able to manage with one or the other depending on your needs. They do have some overlap, so I want to take you through a few of the pros and cons so you can find the primary program for you. I often get asked which program I like better and sometimes it is like comparing apples to oranges. Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom are the gold standard programs in photo editing and they are great for image management too.

Adobe lightroom vs photoshop elements