Adobe Lightroom is a powerful tool trusted by photographers around the world, but like any complex software, it can sometimes run into technical hiccups. One of the more frustrating issues users encounter is Lightroom Error 107. This error can interrupt your workflow, prevent files from syncing, or even stop Lightroom from launching correctly. Fortunately, in most cases, Error 107 is fixable with a few targeted troubleshooting steps.

TL;DR: Lightroom Error 107 is typically caused by corrupted preferences, sync issues, damaged catalogs, or outdated software. To fix it, start with basic troubleshooting like restarting Lightroom, updating the app, and checking your Creative Cloud sync. If the error persists, reset preferences, repair your catalog, or reinstall Lightroom. Most users can resolve Error 107 without professional assistance by following structured steps.

What Is Adobe Lightroom Error 107?

Error 107 in Adobe Lightroom commonly appears when there’s a problem related to:

  • Corrupted preference files
  • Damaged catalog files
  • Creative Cloud synchronization issues
  • Incomplete or failed updates
  • Permission conflicts on your system

The message may appear during launch, while syncing photos, or when attempting to export images. In most cases, it indicates that Lightroom is unable to properly access or process required files.

Step 1: Restart Lightroom and Your Computer

It may sound simple, but restarting often resolves temporary glitches.

  1. Close Lightroom completely.
  2. Quit Adobe Creative Cloud.
  3. Restart your computer.
  4. Reopen Creative Cloud, then Lightroom.

This clears cached memory processes that may be interfering with Lightroom’s functionality.

Step 2: Update Adobe Lightroom

Running an outdated version can trigger Error 107 due to compatibility issues.

To update:

  • Open Adobe Creative Cloud.
  • Go to the Apps section.
  • Check for available updates for Lightroom.
  • Install any pending updates.

Adobe frequently releases bug fixes, and Error 107 may already be resolved in the latest version.

Step 3: Reset Lightroom Preferences

Corrupted preferences are one of the most common causes of Error 107.

How to Reset Preferences (Windows & macOS)

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut

  • Hold down Shift + Alt (Windows) or Shift + Option (Mac) while launching Lightroom.
  • Confirm when prompted to reset preferences.

Method 2: Manual Reset

  • Navigate to Lightroom’s preferences folder.
  • Delete or rename the Preferences file.
  • Restart Lightroom.

Resetting preferences does not delete your photos, but it will remove customized settings.

Step 4: Check Your Lightroom Catalog

Your catalog is the heart of Lightroom—it stores every edit and organization setting. If it becomes corrupted, Error 107 may appear.

Repairing the Catalog

  1. Open Lightroom.
  2. If prompted, choose the Repair option.
  3. If not prompted, manually locate your catalog file (.lrcat).
  4. Create a backup copy before proceeding.

To locate your catalog:

  • Go to Edit > Catalog Settings (Windows)
  • Go to Lightroom > Catalog Settings (Mac)
  • Click Show to open the catalog folder

If the catalog still fails to open, restore from a recent backup.

Step 5: Verify Creative Cloud Sync

Error 107 can also stem from synchronization issues with Adobe Creative Cloud.

Try the following:

  • Sign out of Creative Cloud.
  • Restart your computer.
  • Sign back into Creative Cloud.
  • Allow Lightroom to re-sync.

Sign-in issues or interrupted sync sessions can trigger internal communication failures within Lightroom.

Step 6: Check Folder Permissions

In some cases, Lightroom may not have proper permission to access certain system folders.

On Windows:

  • Right-click your catalog folder.
  • Select Properties > Security.
  • Ensure your user account has Full Control.

On macOS:

  • Right-click the folder.
  • Select Get Info.
  • Under Sharing & Permissions, verify read and write access.

Permission conflicts are especially common after operating system updates.

Step 7: Clear Lightroom Cache

Lightroom builds caches to speed up performance. However, corrupted cache data may cause Error 107.

  • Go to Edit > Preferences > Performance.
  • Locate the Camera Raw Cache section.
  • Click Purge Cache.

You can also manually delete the cache folder from your system’s application data directory.

Step 8: Reinstall Adobe Lightroom

If none of the above steps work, a clean reinstall may be necessary.

How to Perform a Clean Reinstall

  1. Uninstall Lightroom through Creative Cloud.
  2. Restart your computer.
  3. Use Adobe’s Creative Cloud Cleaner Tool (optional but recommended).
  4. Reinstall the latest version of Lightroom.

A clean installation removes corrupted program files that might not be fixed by a basic update.

Common Causes and Fixes Comparison

Cause Symptoms Recommended Fix Difficulty Level
Corrupted Preferences Error on launch Reset Preferences Easy
Damaged Catalog Catalog won’t open Repair or Restore Backup Medium
Sync Issues Cloud not syncing Sign Out/In Creative Cloud Easy
Outdated Software Unexpected crashes Update Lightroom Easy
Permission Conflicts Cannot access files Adjust Folder Permissions Medium
Corrupted Installation Error persists after fixes Clean Reinstall Advanced

How to Prevent Lightroom Error 107 in the Future

Once you’ve resolved the issue, take preventative steps to avoid facing it again.

Best Practices:

  • Update Lightroom regularly.
  • Enable automatic catalog backups.
  • Avoid force-quitting the app.
  • Keep your operating system updated.
  • Ensure stable internet during syncing.
  • Periodically clear cache files.

Backing up your catalog on exit (Lightroom will prompt you) is one of the most important preventative measures you can take.

When to Contact Adobe Support

If you have tried:

  • Resetting preferences
  • Repairing the catalog
  • Clearing cache
  • Reinstalling Lightroom

and Error 107 still appears, the issue may involve deeper account-level or licensing conflicts. Contact Adobe Support through the Creative Cloud Help Center. Be prepared to provide:

  • Your operating system version
  • Your Lightroom version
  • Screenshots of the error
  • Recent changes made to your system

Final Thoughts

Adobe Lightroom Error 107 can be alarming, especially if it interrupts an important editing session. However, in most cases, the solution is surprisingly straightforward. Whether the issue stems from corrupted preferences, catalog damage, sync failures, or outdated software, systematic troubleshooting usually resolves it.

The key is to approach the problem methodically—start with simple fixes like restarting and updating, then move toward more advanced solutions if needed. With proper maintenance and regular backups, you can keep Lightroom running smoothly and avoid seeing Error 107 again.

Photography is about creativity—not technical frustration. With the right troubleshooting steps, you can get back to editing and focus on what truly matters: creating stunning images.