When I import files (copy from jpeg or copy as DNG from raw, where is the full size original stored?

Question

I have the photos go here file, does LR5 put the untouched original there? Do I need my own file for originals and if so, how does LR5 know where to find the full size original? I have everything working but don't understand where my untouched originals go after import. Say I import off my card to My Pictures/Lightroom Catalog/ Photos go here ..... are my originals there? What if I erase my card now, do I only have partial size negatives basically? I don't understand why LR5 didnt put in an originals do here file that imports the full photo to a stock folder. I am so confused I am about ready to throw out LR5. I even bought your instructional DVD and it doesnt make where the original files location clear, it just repeats that LT5 does NOT import the original, just thumbnail and instructions, where is the program getting the photo when I double click to open it , or am I only seeing a lower resolution version of the photo and the full res is now gone because I formatted the card?

Answer 1

When you import photos, you can choose "Copy" or "Move" or "Copy as DNG", and then select a destination folder on your hard disk. This happens on the right hand side of the Import dialog box. So your original files go to this destination folder.
Alternatively, if your photos are already on your hard disk, you can import by choosing "Add" and the original photos remain in the existing location.
If you're not sure where the photos are, open Lightroom, go to the Library Module, and on the right hand side is the Metadata Panel. Set the dropdown to "Default", and it will show you where your photos are stored. Alternatively, you can right-click on any photo and select "Show In Finder"/"Show in Explorer" and Lightroom will take you to the exact folder where the photo is located.
So, bottom line, you are in total control of where the originals go, and if your forgot where you put them, or made a mistake, you can always find out where they are.
What if I erase my card now, do I only have partial size negatives basically?
If your import was successful, then the photos are now stored on your hard disk. So you have the full size original for Lightroom to work with.
it just repeats that LT5 does NOT import the original, just thumbnail and instructions
Lightroom does import the original, which means, in Lightroom jargon, that it records the location and metadata about the photo; in other words, Lightroom knows where the photo is, but Lightroom NEVER contains your photo, your photo is ALWAYS stored on the hard disk.
Because Lightroom now knows where your photo is located, it is important that you not manage your photos (move, edit, rename, delete) outside of Lightroom. Photo managements tasks now must be done in Lightroom. (There are advanced methods that let you manage your photos outside of Lightroom, but these would be NOT RECOMMENDED for beginners)