> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://photopicker.gitbook.io/v3/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://photopicker.gitbook.io/v3/folders.md).

# 4. WORKING WITH PHOTOS ON EXTERNAL STORAGE WITHOUT IMPORT

This mode allows you to start sorting photos immediately without the need for prior import. Simply select a folder containing your photos, and the app will automatically save all changes to XMP files. This makes your photos instantly available for import into photo editors. Flags, ratings, and color tags are automatically read from the XMP files when the photos are opened in external applications.

## Indexing and Folder Access

* When opening a folder for the first time, the app performs photo indexing, which only takes a few seconds
* Subsequent access to the folder is instant, thanks to the saved index

## Batch Operations

When performing batch operations, such as changing flags, ratings, or color tags, the process may take some time to complete. This is because the app needs to update the XMP files for the selected photos. During this process, a progress indicator is displayed on the screen to show the status of the export.

## Color Label Settings

Color labels are saved according to the Color Label Set Language parameter in the app settings. To ensure correct color label display in Lightroom, verify that the settings match Lightroom’s localization language.

## How to Configure Color Labels in Lightroom

1. Navigate to Metadata → Color Label Set → Edit
2. Ensure that the labels and their values match the localization and settings in PhotoPicker


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