Metadata (EXIF)
/ˈmɛtədeɪtə/ · noun · Exchangeable Image File Format
EXIF metadata is hidden data saved inside a photo, such as the date, GPS location and camera settings.
In more detail
EXIF metadata is information about a photo stored next to the pixels. It can include the time the photo was taken, the camera and lens, exposure settings and often exact GPS coordinates.
It helps you sort your own photo library. When you share a photo, it can reveal more than you meant to. Remove it before you post photos publicly.
What EXIF data can reveal
Common EXIF fields include the date and time, camera and lens model, exposure, aperture, focal length, ISO, orientation, editing software and a small preview image. Phones and cameras may also save latitude, longitude, altitude and the direction the camera faced.
Metadata is stored apart from the visible image. Cropping or blurring part of a photo doesn't remove it. Social networks often strip metadata on upload. Email, cloud storage, file sharing links and direct downloads may keep all of it.
When to keep or remove EXIF metadata
Keep EXIF data in a private photo library if you sort or search by date, place or camera. Photographers also use exposure details to see how a shot was made and to fix problems.
Remove it before you publish a photo that could expose a home, school, workplace, child or private event. After you remove it, check the exported copy. Don't assume every app removed every metadata block or the embedded preview.
Key points
- EXIF can include exact location, time taken, device details and camera settings.
- Editing the visible image doesn't remove hidden metadata.
- Keep metadata for your private library. Remove it and check the copy before sharing.