Choosing a Lightroom Preset for iPhone ProRAW Photos
By ShutterGroove | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to pick a Lightroom preset that complements iPhone ProRAW files. We break down what to look for and share a film-inspired option that brings analog warmth to your mobile edits.
Quick answer
For iPhone ProRAW photos, look for a Lightroom preset that respects the wide dynamic range of the file. The PT 160D preset, inspired by Kodak Portra 160, gives your digital shots a realistic film look without crushing highlights or shadows.
Why ProRAW changes your preset choice
iPhone ProRAW files capture more highlight and shadow detail than standard JPEGs or HEICs. That extra latitude means you can push exposure and color without breaking the image, but it also means a preset that works well on a compressed JPEG may look harsh or clipped on a ProRAW file. A preset designed with film emulation in mind tends to handle the extra data gracefully, because film curves naturally roll off highlights and shadows.
What to look for in a preset
The best presets for ProRAW are those that apply subtle tonal shifts rather than aggressive contrast curves. You want a preset that adjusts color without oversaturating and that uses a soft film-like rolloff. Many presets aimed at mobile photographers also include a tailored white balance adjustment to compensate for the iPhone's cooler default look.
How to pick your preset: decision rules
- Check for ProRAW compatibility: A preset that works on standard JPEGs may not preserve ProRAW's dynamic range. Look for presets that explicitly mention ProRAW or film simulation — they usually apply gentler curves. If the product page doesn't mention ProRAW, test it on a low-contrast ProRAW image first.
- Prioritize film-inspired presets: Film emulation presets like PT 160D are built to handle wide tonal ranges. They add a natural color cast and soft highlight rolloff that complements the extra data ProRAW captures.
- Adjust exposure after applying: ProRAW files often need a small exposure bump after a preset is applied, because the base file can look flat. Use the Lightroom exposure slider to lift the image until the histogram looks balanced. Always check the histogram — if it's bunched to the left or right, the preset may need a tweak.
Preset spotlight
- PT 160D Lightroom Preset For iPhone ProRAW: PT 160D is a Lightroom preset designed to make your digital photos look like real film, inspired by Kodak Portra 160 with a custom Patrick Tomasso touch. It gives your iPhone ProRAW images a warm, natural film aesthetic that retains the file's rich detail while smoothing out digital harshness.
PT 160D Lightroom Preset For iPhone ProRAW
Who should use this preset approach
Best for
- iPhone photographers who shoot ProRAW and want a film look without manual color grading
- Mobile editors looking for a one-click preset that handles the wide dynamic range of ProRAW files
Not for
- Users who shoot only JPEG or HEIC and prefer punchy, high-contrast presets
- Photographers who want full manual control and don't want any preset applied as a starting point
