Lightroom Preset Stacking Guide for Photographers

Preset stacking can feel confusing at first, so I’m breaking it down in the easiest way.

This is preset stacking, explained like you’re brand new, with real examples you can copy. One base, one vibe, one finisher. That’s it.

What “stacking” actually means

Stacking just means you apply one preset, then apply another preset on top of it to build a look.

Instead of searching for one preset that magically does everything, you build it in layers:

• Base preset: fixes the overall light and color

• Vibe preset: adds the style (nostalgic, film, moody, bright, etc.)

• Finisher: ties it all together with a final polish

If you remember nothing else, remember this:

Base + Vibe + Finisher.

Before you start

A few things that will save you from the “why does this look weird” spiral:

• Presets won't fix a bad photo.

• Stacking is optional. Our bases work well on their own.

• The amount slider is EVERYTHING.

Ready to stop guessing?

Here are a few real examples of how I stack Jaide & Jett Presets, including the exact order and the amounts I used.

Step 1 : Apply a base preset

Make adjustments as needed.

Start with a base preset and do any small tweaks you need in the Basic panel.

Example: Edited with The Natural Pack, Preset 5 (above)

My best tip if you’re new

If you have a photo (like the one above) with intense shadows, raise the Blacks in the Lightroom Basic panel.

In this example, I raised Blacks to +50.

Step 2 : Apply a mood

Now add your “vibe” on top. This is where the style comes in.

Example: Nostalgic Kit Base applied at 90% (above)

Step 3 : Apply a finish

Finishers are the final polish. They’re what make the edit feel cohesive.

The Natural Pack Edit

The Nostalgic Kit Base

Western Film Fade Finish

Example stack shown above (left to right):

• First photo: The Natural Pack base

• Second photo: Nostalgic Kit Base applied at 90%

• Third photo: Western Fade Finish (Western Kit) applied at 65%

My best tip if you’re new

Once you find a stack you love, save it as your personal formula.

You’ll stop second guessing yourself and your edits will start feeling consistent, fast, and so much more like “you.”

If you want to try this exact stacking workflow, everything used here is in the Jaide & Jett shop. Grab the packs, copy the recipe, and make it yours.

And if you want help choosing a base or dialing in your stack, come hang out in the Jaide & Jett Facebook group. Post your before photo + tell me what vibe you’re going for and I’ll point you in the right direction.