How to Cull Photos in Lightroom Quickly and Efficiently

Sorting through hundreds of photos after a shoot can feel overwhelming. You may spend hours deciding which shots to keep, only to end up unsure if you picked the best ones. This slows down your workflow and drains your creative energy.

That’s where Lightroom comes in. With the right approach, you can quickly identify your strongest images, remove duplicates, and organize your library without stress. In this guide, we’ll break down the culling process step by step, share pro tips to speed things up, and show how to develop a simple, repeatable method that makes managing photos easier and more efficient.

Why Cull Photos in Lightroom?

Culling photos is one of the first steps in my editing workflow. I usually shoot hundreds of images in a single session. Going through each one can feel overwhelming, but Lightroom makes it manageable.

I like to start by quickly marking the shots I want to keep. Flags help me separate the good images from the ones that will never make the cut. Star ratings let me rank the shots by quality or importance. Color labels are another way to organize images, especially when I plan different edits or projects. The preview feature is also helpful because it loads images faster than some other programs.

Compared to other software I’ve tried, Lightroom keeps everything in one place. I don’t need to switch between apps to mark, rate, or preview my photos. This saves time and keeps my workflow smooth. For me, Lightroom’s combination of flags, stars, colors, and previews makes culling faster and less stressful.

How to Cull Photos in Lightroom?

Learning how to cull photos in Lightroom can save you time and make your editing process smoother. The steps ahead will show simple ways to sort through your images efficiently. Keep reading to see the points that will guide you through the process.

Step 1 - Organize Your Photos

Step 1 reminds us that good prep saves time later. I like to sort my files before I open any editing software. Trust me, this small habit keeps things calm during busy work days. I set up folders on my computer with clear names so I can find any job with ease. My way is simple: start with a main photo folder, then add the year, the type of session, and the client's name.

Here is one layout that works well:
Photos > 2024 > Weddings > Client Name

This keeps every file in the right spot. I also make a second copy of my files on an external drive. It helps protect my work if a computer has a problem.

Step 2: Import Your Photos

This step brings your images into Lightroom so you can start working on them. I like to keep this part simple because it sets the tone for the rest of the edit.

I always recommend placing your images in a folder on your computer first. It helps you stay organized. After that, I open Lightroom and click the import button in the lower left corner. A panel appears on the screen. I look at the folders on the left side and choose the one that holds my images. I click on that folder, and Lightroom shows me every photo inside it.

At the top of the panel, I choose how Lightroom brings in the files. I pick the option called Copy as DNG. This keeps the quality high and makes the files easier to work with. You can also choose Copy or Add, but Copy as DNG is the one I trust for most work.

On the right side, Lightroom gives several choices. File handling helps you manage how the program builds previews. I keep this simple and use Standard because it loads fast and still looks good. I also like to add my name in the metadata box. It helps me keep track of my work.

Lightroom also lets you apply a preset during import. I added one of my basic color presets here. It saves time later since the photo already has a small head start. You can also type a few keywords to group your photos. It helps you find them later without extra digging.

After checking everything, I press the import button in the lower right corner. Lightroom pulls in the photos and gets them ready for the next step.

Step 3: Go to the Library Module

I head to the Library Module to start culling my photos. This area helps me sort and review images in a clear way. It is easy to reach by clicking the Library at the top of the screen. I can also press G for Grid View.

Grid View shows all my photos at once. This helps me scan the full set and get a quick sense of what I want to keep. The thumbnails make it simple to spot sharp images, strong poses, and steady compositions.

I open Loupe View to look at a single photo. I press E to switch to it. This view helps me check details like focus and expression. It also helps me compare two photos that look close.

I start in Grid View to get a broad look, then move into Loupe View as I make choices. This mix keeps my process steady and clear.

Step 4: Sort Your Images

Lightroom gives you a few simple tools to sort your work. I use flags, star ratings, and color labels during every session. These tools help me move through a large set of photos with a clear plan.

I start with flags. They help me make quick choices.
P marks a pick.
X marks a reject.
U clear a flag.
I tap these keys as I move through the grid. It feels natural, almost like a rhythm I fall into with a cup of coffee nearby.

Star ratings help me add more detail. I press 1 through 5 on my keyboard. A 1 means the photo has promise. A 5 tells me it stands out from the rest. Color labels add one more layer. I use them for tasks. One color marks edits I need to finish. Another mark's images I may export later.

My workflow has two passes. The first pass is quick. I trust my eyes and mark picks based on instant reaction. No zooming or second-guessing. The second pass is slower. I look closer and raise or lower ratings. This step helps me shape the final set. Any rejects get cleared out so the library stays tidy.

Soon, the folder feels ready for editing, and the next step begins with a clean slate.

Step 5: Filter Your Selection

Filtering helps you see only the photos you marked earlier. This keeps your screen clean and makes the next choices easier. The filter bar appears with the shortcut Ctrl+L or Cmd+L. You can set it to show flagged images, rated images, or a mix of both.

Step 6: Deleting Unwanted Images

Deleting unwanted images helps keep your catalog organized and frees up storage. Lightroom offers two ways to remove photos.

First, you can delete multiple rejected images at once. Use the filter to show only rejected photos, then select them all and press the Delete key. Lightroom will ask whether to remove them from the catalog or delete them from the hard drive. Choose the option that fits your workflow.

Second, you can delete individual photos. Right-click on the image and select Delete Photo. Again, choose whether to remove it from the catalog or erase it from your computer.

Bonus Lightroom Culling Tips from a Pro Photographer

Using Lightroom efficiently can save hours while keeping your workflow smooth. Small adjustments and smart settings help you move faster without losing control over your edits. Here are some practical tips I use to speed up my process.

Use Smart Previews to Speed Things Up

Smart Previews let you edit images even when the originals are offline. I build them during import or afterward in the Library module. Once they are ready, Lightroom runs faster because it uses smaller files. This is great for large shoots or older computers.

Compare Similar Shots Side-by-Side

When I have multiple shots of the same scene, I use the Compare view (C) to see them together. This makes it easy to pick the best one. I check focus, composition, and expression quickly without jumping back and forth between images.

Master Keyboard Shortcuts

Shortcuts cut down repetitive clicking. I use P to pick, X to reject, and U to unflag. Switching between Library and Develop with D and G saves seconds each time. Learning a few key shortcuts adds up over long culling sessions.

Set Auto Advance for Speed

Turning on Auto Advance moves to the next image automatically after you flag or rate a photo. I do this in the Toolbar settings. It keeps my eyes on the images, not on navigation buttons. This small change keeps the process flowing smoothly.

Be Decisive

I make quick calls on each photo instead of hesitating. If I am unsure, I flag it for review later. Being decisive avoids endless second-guessing and keeps the session moving.

Optimize Lightroom Catalogs

I run the Optimize Catalog command under File every few weeks. This cleans up the database and reduces lag. A lighter catalog means faster previews and smoother scrolling.

Smart Collections

Smart Collections automatically gather images based on rules like flags, ratings, or keywords. I set them as favorites or specific projects. This way, I don’t waste time searching for images manually.

Making these small adjustments has changed how I work in Lightroom. Each tip alone saves time, but together they make culling and editing feel effortless. Even small workflow tweaks can give back hours in a busy editing session.

What to Keep in Mind While Culling in Lightroom

Over time, I’ve learned that culling is as much about mindset as it is about technique. How you approach your images can save time, reduce stress, and help you make stronger choices. Here are three lessons that guide my culling process.

Don’t Get Stuck in Perfectionism

It’s easy to linger on small flaws and hesitate to delete anything. I used to spend too long zooming in on every pixel. This slowed my workflow and left me second-guessing choices. Instead, I focus on the overall impact of the image. Ask yourself: Does it tell the story or capture the moment? If yes, keep it. If not, move on.

Culling Mindset Shift

Culling is about selection, not judgment. Early on, I felt like I was constantly failing by rejecting images. Over time, I realized the goal is to highlight the strongest shots. I now approach it like editing a story: some images support the story, others don’t. This view makes the process feel less personal and more purposeful.

Keep It Simple and Repeatable

A system that is easy to repeat works best. I use consistent flags, stars, or colors to mark images. I don’t overcomplicate the criteria. Simple rules keep me moving quickly and reduce mental fatigue. When the session is done, I know I can apply the same approach next time without hesitation.

Culling is a skill that improves with practice. By staying calm, avoiding perfectionism, and using a clear system, the process becomes faster and more rewarding. Over time, you’ll develop confidence and a workflow that feels natural.

My New Approach to Culling Photos

Sorting through hundreds of images used to take me hours. Large shoots could leave me staring at my screen, unsure where to start. Then I found Aftershoot, an AI tool that changed how I work. It helps me save time without giving up creative control.

The first step is AI grouping. Aftershoot scans all your photos and groups similar shots. This makes it easy to pick the best image in each group. I no longer scroll endlessly to find duplicates or blurry shots.

Next, I use Survey Mode. It shows selected images side by side. This helps me quickly choose the strongest photos. The process feels fast and clear. I still make the final call, but I don’t waste time on obvious rejects.

After that, I turn to AI editing. Aftershoot suggests adjustments like exposure or color fixes. I accept what works and tweak what I want. The tool handles routine edits so I can focus on creative choices.

Finally, I export my selected and edited images to Lightroom. From there, I make any finishing touches. The workflow feels smooth. I spend much less time on culling, but the quality of my work stays high.

Using Aftershoot has cut my culling time by more than half. I get through large batches quickly and keep full control over the final images. I recommend trying it if you want a simpler way to handle lots of photos.

Conclusion: 

Culling photos does not have to be stressful. With a clear system, the right tools, and a focused mindset, you can move through your images faster and with less effort. Lightroom offers simple ways to organize, flag, and rate your shots, while AI tools like Aftershoot can further speed up the process. The key is to stay consistent, make quick decisions, and trust your workflow. By doing this, you keep your library tidy, save time, and focus on creating strong, memorable images.

FAQs:

What does culling mean in photography?
Culling is the process of sorting through your photos and choosing the best ones. It helps remove duplicates, blurry shots, or images that do not add value.

Why should I cull photos in Lightroom?
Culling saves time and keeps your photo library organized. Lightroom makes it easy to mark, rate, and preview images all in one place.

What tools in Lightroom help with culling?
You can use flags to pick or reject images, star ratings to rank photos, and color labels to organize different edits or projects. The Library module shows your images clearly.

How can I speed up culling in Lightroom?
Use keyboard shortcuts, Smart Previews, Auto Advance, and Compare view. These tools reduce clicks and help you make decisions faster.

Should I delete all rejected images?
Yes, but carefully. You can remove them from the catalog or delete them from your hard drive. Removing unwanted photos frees up space and keeps your library clean.

How do AI tools help with culling?
AI tools like Aftershoot can group similar shots, suggest the best images, and handle routine edits. This saves time while letting you make the final creative decisions.

How do I make my culling workflow repeatable?
Keep a simple system using the same flags, stars, or color labels each time. Make quick decisions and avoid overthinking. A repeatable system reduces stress and speeds up your workflow.

What mindset helps with culling?
Focus on selecting strong images, not judging yourself. Avoid perfectionism, keep the process simple, and trust your system.