Image files often contain hidden information known as metadata.
This data can include camera settings, capture dates, color profiles, and embedded text fields. Viewing this metadata helps photographers, designers, and developers understand exactly how an image was created and prepared.
This guide explains what image metadata is, what types exist, and how to view it safely in your browser.
What is image metadata?
Image metadata is information stored inside a photo file.
It is added automatically by cameras, phones, editing software, and image tools. Metadata does not affect how the image looks, but it describes important details about the file.
Common metadata categories include:
- EXIF
- IPTC
- XMP
- ICC
EXIF metadata explained
EXIF data comes directly from cameras and phones.
It often includes:
- Camera make and model
- Lens information
- ISO, shutter speed, and aperture
- Capture date and time
- Image orientation
- GPS coordinates, if enabled
Photographers often rely on EXIF data to review camera settings after a shoot.
IPTC metadata explained
IPTC metadata is commonly used in publishing and media workflows.
It can include:
- Author name
- Copyright information
- Image title and description
- Keywords and captions
- Usage rights
This metadata is often added manually in editing software.
XMP metadata explained
XMP metadata is a flexible format used by many modern applications.
It can store:
- Editing history
- Ratings and labels
- Software specific settings
- Workflow related information
XMP data is commonly used by photo editors like Lightroom and Photoshop.
ICC profiles explained
ICC profiles describe how colors should be displayed.
They help ensure consistent color appearance across:
- Cameras
- Monitors
- Printers
- Websites
Viewing ICC data helps confirm whether an image uses sRGB, Adobe RGB, Display P3, or another color space.
Why view image metadata?
Viewing metadata is useful when you need to:
- Identify camera and lens settings
- Confirm capture dates
- Check color profiles before printing
- Inspect embedded copyright fields
- Diagnose image orientation issues
- Review image preparation details
It is also useful when verifying files from unknown sources.
How browser based metadata viewing works
This metadata viewer reads information directly from the image file in your browser.
The process:
- Load the image locally
- Extract metadata fields
- Display readable summaries and raw data
- Allow copying without exporting files
The image never leaves your device.
Why some images show no metadata
Some images contain little or no metadata.
Common reasons include:
- Screenshots, which usually contain minimal data
- Images downloaded from social platforms
- Files that were intentionally stripped of metadata
- Images exported for web use
This is normal behavior and not an error.
Raw metadata vs summary view
The summary view highlights the most useful fields like camera details and capture date.
The raw view shows everything:
- Nested fields
- Internal values
- Software specific data
- Less common metadata blocks
Raw text is useful for technical inspection or copying complete metadata.
Supported image formats
This tool works best with:
- JPG
- TIFF
- HEIC
- Some RAW formats
Support depends on browser capabilities and how the image was created.
View image metadata now
You can inspect metadata instantly here:
Choose an image and explore its embedded information without installing software.
Privacy and safety
Your image stays on your device.
All metadata extraction happens locally in your browser. Nothing is uploaded, stored, or shared.
This makes the tool suitable for personal photos, client work, and unreleased projects.
Final thoughts
Image metadata provides valuable insight into how a photo was captured and prepared.
Viewing it helps with quality control, documentation, and understanding image files more deeply. With a browser based tool, you can inspect metadata quickly without extra software or setup.