Today’s Question: I have Lightroom 6 and Photoshop CS6. I haven’t changed my equipment in five years and rarely use Photoshop, but I do use Lightroom a lot. Would it be prudent for me to finally update both?
Tim’s Quick Answer: Yes, I absolutely think it is worth updating to the latest versions of Lightroom Classic and Photoshop. This will enable you to update to the latest versions of the operating system, which will provide greater security. It will also enable you to upgrade to the latest computer hardware if you would like.
More Detail: I completely understand that many photographers (including myself) are frustrated by the shift to the subscription model for software. That said, when it comes to the Adobe software applications such as Lightroom Classic and Photoshop, I do think the subscription rate for access to these applications is reasonable, and Adobe does continue to update their applications regularly.
One of the most important reasons to subscribe if you’re using Lightroom and/or Photoshop is to enable you to make updates to your operating system and hardware. Many photographers are using older (and sometime unsupported) versions of operating systems, which are less secure than the latest updates. In some cases this approach also means you are unable to update to the latest computer hardware.
Taking all of this into account, I think it makes the most sense to accept that the subscription model is here to stay, and that it is worthwhile to sign up for the Creative Cloud Photography Plan if you are interested in using Lightroom Classic and/or Photoshop in your workflow. You can learn more about the Photography Plan and other options for the Adobe Creative Cloud here: