The Ultimate Review of Adobe Lightroom Classic for Serious Photographers

Adobe Lightroom Classic stands as a cornerstone in the domain of professional photo editing software, offered within the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan. Tailored for desktop use, Lightroom Classic is celebrated for its efficiency in organizing, managing, and enhancing the quality of a vast array of photos through a library-like catalog. This software is not only about asset management but also about providing advanced editing features that make it a preferred choice for serious photographers who demand precision and control over their digital workflows.

Delving into this article, readers will get a comprehensive review of Adobe Lightroom Classic, uncovering insights into its user interface, editing capabilities, performance, AI features, and more. The exploration will also touch on the pricing model, mobile integration, and how to get the most out of Lightroom Classic, ensuring that photographers can fully leverage this powerful tool in their creative endeavors.

 Get Started

User Interface and Experience

Adobe Lightroom Classic, known for its robust photo management and editing capabilities, offers a user interface that caters to both novice and professional photographers. The interface is meticulously designed to enhance the user experience, making photo editing both intuitive and efficient.

Develop Module Tools and Layout

The Develop module in Adobe Lightroom Classic is a central feature, designed to streamline the editing process. Here’s a breakdown of its layout:

• Left Panels: Include Navigator, Presets, Snapshots, History, and Collections, which aid in quick navigation and adjustments.
• Right Panels: House tools for global and local adjustments, allowing for detailed editing and fine-tuning of images.

Toolbar and Tool Strip

The toolbar below the image window offers quick access to frequently used features:

1. Toggle between ‘Before and After’ views to assess edits.
2. Play slideshows directly from the current collection.
3. Zoom in and out for detailed pixel-level editing.

Directly beneath the Histogram panel, the Tool Strip provides tools for localized editing, enhancing specific areas of a photo without affecting the whole image.

Advanced Features and Customization

Adobe Lightroom Classic introduces features that significantly boost editing precision:

• New Masking Tools: Enable more precise adjustments, crucial for complex images.
• Adaptive Presets: Apply enhancements to specific photo parts with a single click, streamlining the editing workflow.
• Histogram Panel: Essential for monitoring and adjusting color tones and exposure throughout the editing process.

Users can customize the order of Develop panels to suit their workflow, ensuring the most used panels are easily accessible. Additionally, settings from one photo version can be copied to another, enhancing consistency across edits.

Efficiency and Organization

The interface is divided into seven tabbed modules: Library, Map, Book, Slideshow, Print, Web, and Develop, each dedicated to specific aspects of photo management and editing. This structured approach allows for efficient navigation and management of photography projects.

Performance Considerations

While Adobe Lightroom Classic is equipped with powerful tools, it’s important to note that performance may vary. On under-powered computers, the software can be slow, and the file storage system might initially confuse beginners. However, for those with adequate hardware, Lightroom Classic provides a seamless and responsive experience.

Integration and Additional Features

• Cloud Syncing and Mobile Workflow: Lightroom Classic offers excellent cloud syncing capabilities and a robust mobile app, making it possible to edit on the go.
• Comprehensive File Management: A powerful cataloging system helps manage photos effectively.
• Extended Support: The software supports a wide range of new cameras and lenses and includes basic video editing features.

Adobe Lightroom Classic’s user interface is designed to simplify the complexities of photo editing while providing powerful tools that cater to serious photographers. Its customizable nature and advanced features like AI masking tools and adaptive presets position it as a top choice for those looking to refine their photography workflow.

Importing and Organizing Photos

Adobe Lightroom Classic offers a comprehensive suite of tools for importing and organizing photos, ensuring that photographers can manage their digital assets efficiently and effectively. Here’s a detailed look at the processes and features involved.

Importing Photos

To begin importing photos into Adobe Lightroom Classic, users should navigate to ‘File’ > ‘Import Photos and Video’. This action opens a dialog box where users can select images either from their computer or directly from a memory card. The software provides four import options:

1. Copy as DNG – Converts files into the Digital Negative (DNG) format while copying them to a designated folder.
2. Copy – Copies the photos to a new location without changing the format.
3. Move – Moves the photos from their current location to a new one.
4. Add – Adds photos to the catalog without moving them from their current location.

Users must also choose a destination folder for the imported images. During this process, they can utilize ‘File Handling’ options to select the size of the previews, apply develop settings, and attach metadata to streamline future searches and organization.

Organizing Photos

Once photos are imported, Adobe Lightroom Classic provides multiple tools to organize them effectively:

Using Folders and Collections

• Folders: Users can organize photos into folders based on criteria like date, location, or event. Creating subfolders allows for further categorization.
• Collections: For grouping similar images, regardless of their physical location on the disk. Users can create sets for different purposes such as editing workflows, finished files, and unsorted or working files.

Smart Collections and Keywords

• Smart Collections: Automatically add photos based on predefined rules such as rating, date or metadata.
• Keywords: Tags that provide specific details about a photo, such as content or location, which are added during the import process.

Additional Organizational Tools

• Labels and Ratings: Attributes like flags, colors, and ratings can be assigned using keyboard shortcuts for quick sorting and access.
• Map Module: For geo-tagging photos, allowing users to organize and search by location visually.
• Metadata Panel: Users can add searchable location information here, which integrates seamlessly with the Map module.

Optimizing Workflow

• Synchronize Folders: Regular synchronization ensures all images are indexed correctly by Lightroom.
• Apply Presets During Import: Applying metadata, keywords, and develop presets during the import process saves time and maintains consistency across images.
• Optimize Catalog: Regularly optimizing the Lightroom catalog helps maintain performance and manage space by deleting oversized preview files.

Adobe Lightroom Classic’s non-destructive editing means that all original files are preserved, allowing unrestricted experimentation without the risk of losing the original image quality. This, combined with its powerful organizational tools, makes Lightroom Classic a top choice for serious photographers looking to streamline their photo management and editing processes.

Editing Capabilities

Adobe Lightroom Classic provides a comprehensive suite of editing tools designed for serious photographers who require advanced capabilities and detailed control over their images. Here’s an in-depth look at the various features and functionalities that make Lightroom Classic a powerful editing software.

Advanced Editing Panels and Tools

Adobe Lightroom Classic’s Develop module serves as a digital darkroom where users can perform detailed edits on their RAW files. The module includes several panels, each tailored to specific aspects of photo editing:

• Basic Panel: Allows adjustments to white balance, color saturation, and tonal scale, including HDR editing.
• Tone Curve Panel: Users can fine-tune tonal adjustments and color saturation while making curve adjustments.
• Color Mixer and Grading Panels: These panels facilitate comprehensive color adjustments and the creation of special effects in color images or monochrome conversions.
• Details Panel: Focuses on sharpening images and reducing noise.
• Lens Corrections Panel: Corrects optical issues like chromatic aberration and lens vignetting.
• Transform Panel: Adjusts horizontal and vertical distortions to correct perspective issues.
• Effects Panel: Adds creative effects such as vignettes and film-grain.
• Calibration Panel: Customizes the default calibration settings to match the camera used.

AI-Enhanced Features for Efficient Editing

Lightroom Classic incorporates AI technology to streamline and enhance the editing process, particularly in the areas of noise reduction, selection, and masking:

• AI-Assisted Denoise and Adaptive Sky Tools: These tools automatically reduce chroma and luminance noise, and reveal details in over-exposed or hazy skies.
• AI Subject and Background Selection: Automatically detects and selects subjects, allowing for easy adjustments to exposure and details, enhancing both the subject and the background.
• Content-Aware Remove: Quickly removes unwanted objects or blemishes from images with precision.

Non-Destructive Editing and Batch Processing

One of the key strengths of Lightroom Classic is its non-destructive editing capability, which ensures that the original image files remain untouched while edits are applied:

• Non-Destructive Workflow: Edits are stored as a set of instructions applied to the image, which means users can revert to the original image at any time.
• Batch Editing: Apply edits to multiple photos at once, which is particularly useful for photos shot under similar conditions, significantly reducing editing time.

Specialized Editing Tools and Customization

Lightroom Classic offers specialized tools and customization options that cater to professional needs:

• Brush and Gradient Tools: Enhanced with AI, these tools allow for precise adjustments to specific areas of the image, such as skies or facial features.
• Masking Innovations: New masking categories enable users to make fine adjustments in portraits, including selective color changes and detailed skin smoothing.
• Customizable Presets and Profiles: Users can create and modify presets, and the new Presets Amount Slider allows for control over the intensity of effects applied.

Considerations for Advanced Users

While Lightroom Classic offers extensive tools and features, certain advanced tasks might still require integration with other software like Adobe Photoshop:

• Limitations in Advanced Editing: Tasks such as applying complex patch tools, using layers, and making localized HSL color edits might require transitioning to Photoshop for more granular control.
• Performance Factors: The Denoise tool, while effective, can be slow and is not suitable for batch editing. Additionally, there is no option for HSL editing within masked areas, which might limit some advanced color correction tasks.

Adobe Lightroom Classic stands out for its robust editing capabilities, AI-enhanced tools, and non-destructive editing environment, making it an indispensable tool for serious photographers aiming to perfect their digital images.

Performance and Speed

Adobe Lightroom Classic is engineered to handle the demanding needs of serious photographers, but its performance can vary significantly based on the system setup and settings used. Here, we delve into the key factors that impact Lightroom Classic’s speed and efficiency, providing practical tips to optimize your experience.

System Requirements and Configurations

Adobe Lightroom Classic operates on a range of systems, but for optimal performance, certain configurations are recommended:

• Minimum System Requirements: These are just the starting point for running Lightroom Classic. For enhanced performance, a more robust setup is advisable.
• RAM: 12 GB or more is recommended to handle large files and intensive editing processes smoothly.
• Storage: Using a Solid-State Drive (SSD) for storing catalogs, image files, and previews can significantly speed up access and processing times.
• Free Disk Space: Maintaining at least 20% free space on the hard disk where the Lightroom catalog, previews, and image files are stored is crucial for avoiding performance lags.
• Graphics Processing: Keeping graphics drivers up to date and using a compatible graphics processor helps in leveraging Lightroom’s full capabilities.

Optimizing Lightroom Classic Settings

Adjusting certain settings within Lightroom Classic can lead to better performance:

1. Camera Raw Cache Size: Increasing this can speed up preview generation, especially in the Develop module. A setting of 10.0 GB or more is recommended.
2. Optimize Catalog: Regularly selecting ‘File > Optimize Catalog’ helps streamline the data structure of your catalog for quicker access and processing.
3. Pause Syncing: Temporarily pausing ‘Sync With Lightroom’ during intensive editing sessions can free up resources and improve performance.
4. Render Previews: Building 1:1 previews during import or manually can enhance the responsiveness of the Library module and speed up the development process.
5. History Panel: Clearing the History panel after completing edits, especially if many local or spot corrections were made, can free up memory and speed up Lightroom Classic.

Best Practices for Enhanced Performance

Implementing these strategies can maximize the efficiency of your workflow in Lightroom Classic:

• System Maintenance: Keep your operating system updated and close unnecessary applications to ensure that Lightroom Classic has access to the maximum available system resources.
• Preview Management: Keep standard-size previews as small as possible and retain 1:1 previews for as long as they are needed to optimize performance.
• Avoid Auto XMP Writing: Turning off autowrite XMP can prevent performance degradation, especially during heavy editing sessions.
• Limit Global Corrections: Minimize the use of resource-intensive corrections like Noise Reduction and Lens Corrections unless absolutely necessary.

By following these guidelines and customizing Lightroom Classic to suit your system’s capabilities, you can significantly enhance the software’s performance, making your photo editing process faster and more efficient.

AI Features and Automation

Adobe Lightroom Classic incorporates a suite of AI-driven features designed to enhance the photo editing experience, streamline workflows, and improve the overall quality of images. These innovations leverage Adobe Sensei, Adobe’s advanced artificial intelligence technology, to provide intuitive editing tools and smart enhancements.

AI-Powered Editing Tools

Denoise

The Denoise feature in Adobe Lightroom Classic is a standout tool for photographers working in varying light conditions. It effectively reduces digital noise in images, particularly those shot in low light or at high ISO settings. The tool is optimized for both Bayer and X-Trans RAW files, ensuring detailed preservation while smoothing out noise. This feature is especially beneficial for wedding and event photographers who often work in challenging lighting environments.

Auto Masking

Auto Masking utilizes AI to automatically detect and select specific areas of a photo for more precise editing. This tool is particularly useful when adjusting skies or specific subjects, allowing for targeted enhancements without affecting the rest of the image.

Adaptive Presets

AI-Powered Adaptive Presets in Lightroom Classic enable photographers to apply predefined looks across multiple images with a single click. This feature is ideal for maintaining a consistent aesthetic in batch processing, such as in wedding or portrait photography sessions.

AI-Enhanced Workflow Tools

Super Resolution

The Super Resolution feature is a significant advancement in Adobe Lightroom Classic, allowing photographers to increase the resolution of their images. This tool uses AI to intelligently upscale photos while maintaining clarity and detail, making it an excellent choice for large format prints or detailed cropping.

Enhance Details

Enhance Details improves the sharpness and clarity of images, particularly in complex areas with fine textures. By analyzing an image’s individual pixels, this AI-driven tool enhances edge definition and reduces artifacts, which is crucial for high-quality print outputs.

Depth Map Generation

Using AI, Lightroom Classic can generate a depth map for images, which is useful for applying selective adjustments based on the depth information. This feature enables more realistic edits, especially in portrait photography, by allowing for nuanced background blurring and focus enhancements.

Table: Overview of AI Features in Adobe Lightroom Classic

These AI features in Adobe Lightroom Classic not only save time but also enhance the creative possibilities, allowing photographers to achieve professional-grade results with greater efficiency.

Export Options and Flexibility

Adobe Lightroom Classic provides extensive export options that cater to the diverse needs of serious photographers. Whether sharing online, preparing for print, or archiving, users can tailor the export settings to meet specific requirements, enhancing workflow efficiency and output quality.

Comprehensive File Format Selection

Adobe Lightroom Classic supports a variety of file formats, ensuring compatibility across different platforms and uses:

• JPEG: Ideal for web and email due to its balance of quality and file size.
• TIFF: Preferred for high-quality prints and publications as it supports higher bit depths and lossless compression.
• PSD: Best suited for users who continue their editing work in Adobe Photoshop.
• PNG: Useful for graphics with transparent backgrounds.

Flexible Export Settings

Customizing the export process is straightforward in Lightroom Classic, allowing photographers to adjust a wide range of settings:

1. File Naming: Users can create custom naming conventions that include date, client name, or event, making file management easier.
2. Color Space: Options like sRGB for general use, AdobeRGB for printing, and ProPhotoRGB for maintaining maximum color data.
3. Resolution and Sizing: Adjust pixel dimensions and resolution settings depending on the intended use of the images, such as online sharing or high-quality printing.

Advanced Output Options

The software’s advanced tools enhance the flexibility and quality of exported images:

• Output Sharpening: Tailor sharpening settings based on the type of media the image will be viewed on, such as screens or various types of paper.
• Watermarking: Add custom watermarks to images to protect and brand your work.
• Post-Processing: Set what actions Lightroom should perform after exporting, like opening images in another application.

Presets and Automation

To speed up the workflow, Lightroom Classic allows users to save their most commonly used export settings as presets, which can be quickly applied to future exports. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who consistently work with specific formats and settings.

Multi-Batch Export

From version 9.0 onwards, Lightroom Classic includes a Multi-Batch Export feature, enabling users to execute several export jobs at once. This is especially beneficial when dealing with large batches of photos that need to be exported under different settings.

Export Directly to Online Services

Through the ‘Publish Services’ panel, users can directly export and upload images to photo-sharing websites and social media platforms, streamlining the process of online sharing.

Table: Key Export Settings in Adobe Lightroom Classic

By leveraging these export options, Adobe Lightroom Classic users can ensure that their photos are not only creatively and technically refined but also perfectly prepared for any medium or platform.

Pricing Model

Adobe Lightroom Classic, a key component of the Creative Cloud Photography plan, offers various pricing tiers to accommodate the needs of serious photographers. Understanding these options can help users choose the most suitable plan based on their specific requirements, such as photo volume, editing experience, device compatibility, and budget.

Subscription Options and Costs

Adobe provides several subscription models for Lightroom Classic, each designed to match different user needs:

1. Photography Plan (20GB): Priced at $9.99 per month, this plan is tailored for users who need Lightroom Classic along with Lightroom CC and 20GB of cloud storage. It’s an excellent starting point for users who manage moderate amounts of data.
2. Photography Plan (1TB): For more intensive users, this plan includes 1TB of cloud storage at a cost of $19.99 per month. It’s ideal for professional photographers who require more space for their high-resolution images.
3. Teams Plan: Aimed at businesses and professional teams, this plan costs $33.99 per month per license. It offers the same features as the individual plans but with additional administrative and collaboration tools.
4. All Apps Plan: For users who need access to the entire Adobe suite, this plan provides comprehensive access to all Creative Cloud apps, including Lightroom, at a higher cost.

Additional Costs and Offers

• Adobe Stock: Users can enhance their projects with high-quality images from Adobe Stock, available at $29.99/month for 10 standard assets, following a free trial.
• Extra Cloud Storage: Additional storage can be purchased if the initial 20GB or 1TB is insufficient, ensuring users never run out of space.

Trial and Guarantee

• Free Trial: Adobe offers a free trial of Lightroom Classic, allowing users to test the software before committing to a subscription.
• Money-Back Guarantee: A 14-day money-back guarantee is available, although a cancellation fee may apply if the service is terminated after this period.

Special Offers

• Discounts and Promotions: Occasionally, Adobe provides discounts on its Creative Cloud products, which can offer significant savings on the regular subscription fees.

Choosing the Right Plan

Selecting the right subscription plan involves considering several factors:

• Volume of Photos: More extensive photo collections may require plans with greater storage capacity.
• Editing Needs: Users who require advanced editing features might prefer plans that include both Lightroom Classic and Photoshop.
• Budget: Monthly and annual plans are available, with the annual plan generally offering better value.

Table: Summary of Adobe Lightroom Classic Pricing Plans

The pricing structure of Adobe Lightroom Classic offers flexibility to cater to a wide range of users, from hobbyists to professional photographers, ensuring they can find a plan that best suits their needs without compromising on features or storage.

Mobile Integration and Cloud Storage

Adobe Lightroom Classic offers a robust solution for professional photographers who demand flexibility and accessibility in managing their photo libraries. The integration of mobile and cloud storage features significantly enhances the usability and versatility of Lightroom Classic, catering to the needs of users who prefer cloud-based storage and multi-device accessibility.

Cloud Storage and Multi-Device Accessibility

Adobe Lightroom Classic allows users to store photos online efficiently, which simplifies the organization and accessibility of images. By syncing photos across the Lightroom desktop, mobile, and web platforms, users can access and share their work from any computer or mobile device. This seamless integration is facilitated by clicking the Sync icon in the upper-right corner of the Lightroom interface, which starts the syncing process across all devices.

Adobe Lightroom for Mobile

The Adobe Lightroom mobile app extends the power of Lightroom Classic to mobile devices, providing a comprehensive toolset for capturing, editing, and sharing photos on the go. The app is freely available on various platforms including iPad, iPhone, Android devices, and Chromebooks, supporting a wide range of languages from English and French to Russian and Vietnamese.

System Requirements for Optimal Performance

For Android users, the app supports devices running Android 8.x (Oreo) or later. The minimum hardware requirements include a quad-core CPU, 4 GB RAM, and 32 GB of internal storage. However, for an optimal experience, an octa-core CPU with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB of internal storage is recommended.

Smart Previews and File Management

One of the key features of Adobe Lightroom for mobile is its ability to store smart previews of original raw files. These previews are significantly smaller in size, which conserves space on mobile devices while still allowing detailed editing. It’s important to note that the original files remain on the desktop and are not stored, synced, or used by the mobile app, ensuring that high-resolution files are secure and managed efficiently.

Access to Web-Based Image Editor

In addition to mobile integration, Adobe Lightroom Classic users have access to Lightroom on the web. This web-based image editor complements the desktop and mobile applications, allowing users to make quick edits when they do not have access to their main software environment.

Table: Overview of Mobile and Cloud Features in Adobe Lightroom Classic

This integration not only enhances the flexibility of Adobe Lightroom Classic but also ensures that photographers can access and edit their photos anytime, anywhere, making it an indispensable tool for professionals who are always on the move.

Who Should Use Adobe Lightroom Classic?

Here’s a breakdown of who should use Adobe Lightroom Classic, along with reasons why it’s the preferred choice for these types of users:

Professional Photographers:

• Robust Features: Lightroom Classic offers advanced tools for detailed image adjustment, color grading, local edits, and complex masking.
• Workflow Efficiency: Extensive organizational features, batch processing, presets, and customizable keyboard shortcuts streamline the process for large volumes of photos.
• Local Storage: Complete control over how and where images are stored.
• Plugin Support: Integration with third-party plugins extends functionality for printing, web galleries, etc.

Serious Hobbyists & Enthusiasts:

• Deep Editing Control: Users wanting the ultimate level of creative control over the look and feel of their images.
• Investment in Skill Development: Photographers who want to grow their technical editing skills and master the complete photographic workflow.

Existing Lightroom Users:

• Familiarity: Photographers who have used previous versions of Lightroom find the interface and workflow familiar.

Comparing to Alternatives

Here’s a breakdown of how Adobe Lightroom Classic compares to some of the popular alternatives, highlighting their relative strengths and weaknesses:

Luminar Neo

• Strengths:
  • Advanced AI-powered editing tools (sky replacement, portrait retouching, object removal)
  • Intuitive interface, easier for beginners
  • One-time purchase option
• Weaknesses:
  • Less robust image organization compared to Lightroom Classic
  • Limited features for precise color grading and local adjustments

ON1 Photo RAW

• Strengths:
  • Combines image editing, cataloging, and a focus on effects
  • Both subscription and one-time purchase options
  • Excellent noise reduction and RAW processing capabilities
• Weaknesses:
  • Can be slower to respond than Lightroom Classic
  • Interface might feel less streamlined for some users

Capture One Pro

• Strengths:
  • Renowned for exceptional color rendering and RAW processing
  • Highly-customizable workspace
  • Tethered shooting support for studio work
• Weaknesses:
  • Steep learning curve
  • One of the most expensive options

DxO PhotoLab

• Strengths:
  • Unparalleled lens correction and noise reduction tools
  • Strong RAW processing
  • Local adjustments with U-point technology
• Weaknesses:
  • Less intuitive interface compared to some alternatives
  • Limited image organization features

Darktable (Free and Open-Source)

• Strengths:
  • Absolutely free to use
  • Powerful features for advanced editing
  • Highly customizable
• Weaknesses:
  • Very steep learning curve
  • Interface can feel unpolished compared to commercial software

Conclusion

Through a detailed exploration of Adobe Lightroom Classic, it’s clear that this software remains a pivotal tool for serious photographers. From its advanced editing capabilities, AI-enhanced features, to cloud integration and mobile accessibility, Lightroom Classic offers a comprehensive suite designed to streamline workflow and enhance photo quality. Its user-friendly interface, coupled with powerful organizing tools, ensures photographers can manage their digital assets with ease and precision, making it a top choice for professionals seeking control and flexibility in their editing process.

Reflecting on the broader implications, the continuous updates and integration of Adobe Sensei’s AI technology in Lightroom Classic not only save time but expand creative boundaries. As the software evolves, it promises even greater efficiency and innovative possibilities in photo editing. Whether for hobbyists entering the world of serious photography or seasoned professionals refining their craft, Adobe Lightroom Classic stands out as an essential resource, empowering users to realize their vision with unparalleled depth and clarity.

FAQs

What do most professional photographers prefer, Lightroom or Lightroom Classic?
Professional photographers often opt for Lightroom Classic due to its extensive features. However, some may use both Lightroom and Lightroom Classic to take advantage of specific functionalities, especially if they have a significant presence on social media and require features from both versions.

Which version of Lightroom is recommended for different levels of photographers?
For seasoned professionals and those already familiar with Lightroom, Classic remains the top choice due to its comprehensive toolset. On the other hand, beginners, smartphone users, casual photography enthusiasts, and those who need to edit photos on the move may find Lightroom CC to be more user-friendly and convenient.

Is investing in Lightroom Classic a good decision?
Lightroom Classic is considered a worthy investment for veteran photographers since it retains most features from previous versions, including those not found in the newer Lightroom app, such as local printing, tethering, and plug-in support. It has also earned an Editors’ Choice award. For those seeking the most robust photo-editing capabilities, Photoshop is our Editors’ Choice.

Can you explain the main differences between Lightroom and Lightroom Classic?
The primary distinction between Lightroom and Lightroom Classic lies in their platform focus. Lightroom is a cloud-based photo service designed for use across various platforms, including desktop, mobile, and web. Conversely, Lightroom Classic is tailored for desktop use, catering to digital photography workflows.