What is Hyperfocal?

Hyperfocal is an AI-powered tool that creates custom Lightroom presets from natural language descriptions or reference images (paid plans only). Instead of manually tweaking sliders or buying preset packs, describe the look you want and our AI generates a professional preset in seconds.

What formats do the presets work with?

Hyperfocal generates XMP files, which are compatible with Adobe Lightroom Classic, Lightroom CC (cloud-based), and Adobe Photoshop ACR (Camera Raw). The presets work with both RAW and JPEG files. Users on a Presets+LUTs plan can also export their presets as .cube LUT files for use in video editing software like DaVinci Resolve, Premiere Pro, and Final Cut Pro.

How does the reference photo matching work?

When you upload a reference image, our AI analyzes its color grading, tones, contrast, and overall mood. It then generates a preset that replicates that aesthetic, allowing you to match the look of any photo you admire. Your uploaded images are processed in real-time and never stored. Learn more in our Using Reference Images guide.

Can I edit or tweak the generated presets?

Absolutely! After importing a preset into Lightroom or Photoshop ACR, you have full control over every slider. Presets are designed as starting points; you can adjust any setting to fine-tune the look for your specific photo. See our Tweaking & Customizing guide for tips.

Do I own the presets I create?

Yes. There are no licensing restrictions on presets you generate with Hyperfocal. Use them commercially or share them with the community. If you cancel your paid plan, you'll revert to the free tier and keep access to all your presets.

What if I'm not happy with a generated preset?

You have several options: regenerate with a more detailed description, upload a reference photo to show the AI what you mean, use the remix feature to create variations of a preset that's close, or manually tweak the preset in Lightroom after importing. Check out Writing Effective Prompts for tips on getting better results.

What makes a good prompt?

The best prompts are specific and descriptive. Instead of "warm tones," try "warm golden hour tones with lifted shadows, slightly faded blacks, and desaturated greens." Mention the mood, specific colors, contrast level, and any special effects you want. Our Writing Effective Prompts guide has many examples.

What's the difference between variations and remixing?

Variations create alternative versions of an existing preset while maintaining its core characteristics. Remixing uses a preset as inspiration but takes more creative liberties. Both are great for exploring different directions from a good starting point. Learn more in Remixing & Variations.

Can I match the style of a specific photographer or film?

Yes! You can either describe their style in words (e.g., "Kodak Portra film look with warm skin tones and soft contrast") or upload a reference image that exemplifies the look (paid plans only). The AI will analyze the characteristics and create a matching preset.

What's the difference between Free and Paid plans?

The Free plan gives you 3 preset generations to try Hyperfocal. All paid plans include unlimited generations, so you can create as many presets as you need. See Plans & Pricing for full details.

What counts as a generation?

Each time you create a new preset (from a text prompt, reference image, or variation) counts as one generation. Downloading, re-downloading, organizing, or sharing existing presets does not count against your limit.

What happens to my presets if I cancel?

If you cancel your paid plan, you'll revert to the free tier and keep access to all presets you created. You can continue downloading them anytime. You'll still get 3 free generations per month on the free tier.

Can I upgrade or downgrade my plan?

Yes, you can change your plan at any time from your account settings. Upgrades take effect immediately, and downgrades take effect at your next billing cycle.

Do you offer refunds?

We handle refunds on a case-by-case basis. If you're not satisfied with Hyperfocal, reach out to us and we'll work something out.

How do I install presets in Lightroom?

Download the XMP file from Hyperfocal, then import it into Lightroom. The exact steps vary by version: see our guides for Lightroom Classic, Lightroom CC, and Photoshop ACR.

Do presets work on mobile?

Yes! If you use Lightroom CC (the cloud-based version), presets you import on desktop automatically sync to your mobile devices. See our Lightroom CC guide for details.

Can I use presets with other photo editing software?

XMP presets are specific to Adobe products (Lightroom and Photoshop ACR). However, if you have a plan with LUT export, you can export your presets as LUTs which work in many other applications.

Why does a preset look different on my photo?

Presets are starting points that interact with your photo's existing characteristics. Different lighting, exposure, and colors in your original will affect how the preset looks. This is normal and expected. See Tweaking & Customizing for tips on adjusting presets.

What is a LUT?

LUT stands for Look-Up Table. It's a file that applies color grading to video footage. Unlike presets (which only work in Lightroom/Photoshop ACR), LUTs work in video editing software like DaVinci Resolve, Premiere Pro, and Final Cut Pro.

How do I get LUTs?

LUT export is available on Preset+LUT plans. If your plan includes it, you'll see a "Download LUT" option on your presets. LUTs are exported in .cube format, the industry standard. See our Exporting LUTs guide.

What is the Community Gallery?

The Community Gallery (paid plans only) is where Hyperfocal users share their best presets. You can browse for inspiration, download presets others have shared, and share your own creations.

Are community presets free to use?

Yes! For paid plan members, community presets are free to download and use with no restrictions, including commercially, and without attribution required.

How do I share my presets?

From any preset in your library, click the share button and select "Share to Community." Your preset will be visible in the Community Gallery for others to discover. See Sharing Your Presets for more details.

Are my reference images stored?

No. When you upload a reference image, it's processed in real-time by our AI and immediately discarded. We never store your uploaded images.

Is my prompt visible to others?

No. Even if you share a preset publicly, your original prompt or reference image is never shown. Only the preset name, preview, and description are visible to others.

FAQ

General Questions