Privacy Workflow

How to Remove Metadata from Photos

Photos often contain hidden data like GPS coordinates, camera details, and timestamps. Use this guide to remove metadata before sharing images publicly.

Original photo metadata on left, cleaned export on right.

What Metadata Can Be Embedded?

GPS coordinates

Can reveal home, workplace, school, or travel patterns.

Camera and device details

Includes camera model, lens info, and software versions.

Timestamps

Exact capture date and time can expose routines.

Editing history tags

May show apps or workflow details you do not want to publish.

Before and After Cleanup

Metadata Field Original File Clean File
GPS latitude/longitude Often present Removed
Camera/device model Often present Removed
Capture timestamp Often present Removed
Visible image pixels Unchanged Unchanged

Step-by-Step Safe Sharing Flow

  1. Step 1

    Upload your source image into EXIF Metadata Cleaner.

  2. Step 2

    Review detected EXIF fields, especially GPS and date information.

  3. Step 3

    Strip metadata and download the sanitized export.

  4. Step 4

    Optional: compress the clean file using Image Compressor before publishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. EXIF removal strips hidden tags only. Pixel data remains unchanged.
Yes for most public-sharing workflows, especially client work, social content, and marketplaces.
JPG, TIFF, HEIC/HEIF, AVIF, and other formats can contain metadata. PNG and WebP may also include it depending on workflow.
GPS-only cleanup targets location tags. Full metadata cleanup removes a broader set of fields, including camera and timestamp details.