Complete Guide on Lightroom HEIC Support and How to Import It

Can Lightroom import HEIC files? Many people wonder about this question, and if you'd also like to find out, let this article help you. HEIC, the high-efficiency image format used by iPhones and newer devices, offers superior quality at smaller file sizes, but the question is, does Adobe Lightroom support it? Whether you're a photographer who wants to import images or a casual user wanting seamless HEIC editing, this guide covers everything you must know to manage HEIC images on Lightroom. A workaround is also available to help you if anything goes wrong.

Part 1: Can Lightroom Import or Export HEIC?

If you wonder if you can import or export HEIC extension on Adobe Lightroom, the answer is that it depends. Regarding importing, you will be delighted to know that the program supports HEIC images in specific versions. Thus, if you'd like to manage your photos with this format, you must install the Adobe Lightroom version compatible with your image files, HEIC.

Aside from that, the computer's operating system must also be considered, as specific program versions are available, depending on your Windows or macOS. The Lightroom versions and computer operating systems supporting HEIC files will be discussed later, so continue reading to determine if your Lightroom can import HEIC image formats.

On the other hand, in terms of exporting, unfortunately, Lightroom doesn't support HEIC files. It only allows users to import and edit the photos, but the format is no longer supported when you export the result. Hence, you have no choice but to save it in another format. That said, kindly head to the next sections and see how you can manage your files seamlessly.

Part 2: What Lightroom Versions Support HEIC

As mentioned, Lightroom HEIC support for import depends on specific factors, mainly your Lightroom program's version and your computer's operating system. But other than that, it will also depend on your iOS or Android device because Lightroom phone apps are also available. So, mobile device users can get them from the App Store or the Play Store. That said, check the details below and see in which cases you can import HEIC files on the Lightroom interface.

For macOS High Sierra v10.13 and later:

• Lightroom Classic
• Lightroom
• Camera Raw

For Windows 10 and later:

• Lightroom Classic
• Lightroom
• Camera Raw

For iOS 11 and later:

• Lightroom for mobile (iOS)

For Android:

• Lightroom for mobile (iOS)

These Lightroom program or app versions are available only on these designated computers or mobile device operating systems. So, if the one you have installed doesn't support HEIC, you won't be able to import your file into the program. Luckily, an HEIC to JPG technique exists to help you get your photo into the Lightroom interface. Kindly check it in Part 4.

Part 3: How to Import HEIC Files to Lightroom

Now that you know the Lightroom versions supporting the HEIC file extension, it is time to learn how to import your photos. But before you worry about complications, we guarantee the process will be quick and easy. However, while the process is hassle-free, there are some considerations you must note to ensure a smooth workflow when importing images in this format.

As you may know, HEIC is a modern format used by Apple devices. Thus, before diving into the primary import steps, it would be essential to check a few things. First, your Lightroom version should be up-to-date, as older versions don't recognize HEIC files. Second, your computer storage must have sufficient space to handle the import smoothly. Also, ensure the HEIC photos you plan to import and edit in the program aren't corrupted.

Once you take care of these aspects, you will be ready to import your HEIC images into Lightroom and begin the editing procedure accordingly. That said, determine how to import HEIC files to Lightroom with the help of our guidelines below.

Import HEIC Files on Windows 10 Lightroom:

Step 1Since HEIC files aren't natively supported on Windows, visit the Microsoft Store first to download the HEIF Extension plugin. Once ready, initialize Adobe Lightroom on your desktop and click the Plus button on the left portion.

Step 2A Browse option will shortly appear, so select it to view the pop-up folder containing your computer files. From there, locate and double-click the HEIC file you wish to import. It will then be on the Lightroom interface afterward, allowing you to manage and edit it.

Import HEIC Files on macOS Lightroom:

Step 1Launch your Mac computer's Lightroom program and proceed to the Library module on its interface. Next, opt for the Import option; a window containing your files will appear.

Step 2Find the HEIC images you'd like to import and select them. Afterward, click the Import button to get the files into the Lightroom interface. You can then begin editing accordingly.

Part 4: How to Import HEIC to Lightroom When It Doesn't Support HEIC

Unfortunately, importing HEIC files is impossible if you don't have an appropriate Lightroom version for your computer, but no worries. You can convert your image to a supported format, and AVAide Image Converter can help. Since you can't add images in HEIC format to Lightroom, convert them first to a different format, such as JPEG, PNG, TIFF, etc., as they are supported by the program. Now, if you're worried about the quality of your files, don't worry, because AVAide Image Converter can guarantee that the best quality of the photos will be maintained.

Aside from that, this online converter supports batch conversion; thus, you can upload and convert multiple HEIC files simultaneously to a format. After all, AVAide Image Converter lets users convert more than a hundred formats without installing software. You must visit the online converter's official page and follow the designated steps in the directions below.

Step 1Launch a trusted browser on your desktop, then access the AVAide Image Converter website. The online program's interface will then be displayed with its conversion options.

Step 2Click the Choose Files tab in the middle to view your local file folder. Find and mark the HEIC files you wish to convert from there, then click Open to upload them to the page.

Step 3Once they're on the platform, choose a format supported by Lightroom through the Select Output Format option. The conversion process will begin afterward. You can monitor it in the lower section, and when done, select Download on the right to save the photo.

Once you successfully turn your HEIC file into a format that Lightroom supports, you can finally import it to the program. As mentioned, AVAide Image Converter doesn't let users face quality loss, so you can expect to maintain your file's best image quality.

By Jane Pineda on Sep 05, 2025