NikonKnight Loc: Owings Mills, MD

I've just begun learning LR3 and have been using it for a couple of months as my primary software for post processing. I'm still getting the hang of it and often refer to my Scott Kelby book on LR3. I've also downloaded the beta version of LR4 and used it to process some of my files and I like the results I've gotten. there are several enhancements in the Develop module that I really like.

Question: Should I continue my learning curve with LR3 since I have an excellent reference guide in the Kelby book? Or should I dive into using and learning LR4's beta version which might change somewhat once released? For now I'm importing my new pictures into both LR3 and LR4 but only processing in LR4.

arphot Loc: Massachusetts

Sounds like you're just learning and have gotten your feet wet in 3. I would stay there for now. 4 is just beta and there's plenty of time to move on. Current issue in beta seems to be sluggishness of the program which is something you wouldn't want to deal with while learning. My opinion. I have 3 and am not moving on until I feel it's necessary.

brucewells Loc: Central Kentucky

Depends a bit on how comfortable you feel in your talents. If you are going to need references to help you learn the tool, then there are going to be many more resources for LR3 than for LR4. Just a thought.

Herbnapa Loc: Napa, California

What you are learning in Lightroom 3 is equally applicable in Lightroom 4. Lightroom 4 adds some functionality, handles video, and has a component for making albums. The latter two I don't care about.

flyguy Loc: Las Cruces, New Mexico

I second the recommendation of staying with Lightroom 3 for a while longer.

Also, it often doesn't pay to be an early adopter with new software --- I wait 3-4 mos. till the bugs are worked out.

NikonKnight Loc: Owings Mills, MD

Sounds like good advice flyguy. Thanks.