ExifTool is a free, platform-independent Perl library and command-line application for reading, writing, and editing metadata in many kinds of files. It can read tag values, write or delete them, and copy or move metadata between files. Supported formats include EXIF, GPS, IPTC, XMP, JFIF, GeoTIFF, ICC Profile, Photoshop IRB, FlashPix, AFCP, and ID3, as well as camera maker notes from manufacturers including Apple, Canon, DJI, Nikon, Panasonic, and Sony. Sources can be file names, directory names, or standard input. ExifTool is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows, and can be run without installation by extracting its Perl distribution on Mac or Linux, or its EXE version on Windows. A C++ interface lets applications communicate with an external ExifTool process. By default, writing metadata preserves the original file with an `_original` suffix, and metadata is not written when the target format does not support that type. The maker cautions that some options can execute Perl code and configuration files must contain only trusted code.
Who it is for
ExifTool suits people or applications that need command-line or library access to file metadata across many formats. It may also suit developers connecting its functions to C++ applications.
What is good
- Reads, writes, deletes, copies, and moves metadata.
- Supports numerous metadata formats and camera maker notes.
- Accepts file names, directories, or standard input.
- Preserves originals with an `_original` suffix by default.
- Free software with Linux, macOS, and Windows versions.
What to know first
- It is not designed as an image validator.
- Some options can execute Perl code.
- It will not write metadata unsupported by the target format.
Verdict
ExifTool offers broad metadata reading and editing through a command-line application and Perl library. Users should take care with executable options and trusted configuration files.
ExifTool plans and pricing
All plansCompared on photo metadata editors
- Free plan
- Yes
- Metadata scope
- broader
- Batch editing
- Yes
- RAW file support
- Yes
- Platform
- cross_platform
- GPS metadata tools
- Yes
