Software to edit EXIF metadata and add custom fields
Asked 9/29/2010
109 views
2 answers
0
I need a tool that can modify EXIF metadata in image files, including changing existing fields and possibly adding custom fields for my own programming-related use. Some tags seem fixed or limited, so I’m looking for software that can edit metadata more freely and, if supported, add new fields safely.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
16y ago
2 Answers
7
It looks like there is a library which can change + add exif meta data: http://sourceforge.net/projects/openexif/
So I'm wondering what your source was that said the fields are locked?
There is also a very good tool called ExifTool which allows very extensive changing of the meta information. There is however a warning about changing meta data, you have to know what you're doing.
Originally by user245. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user245
16y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes — tools exist for extensive EXIF metadata editing. The community specifically mentions ExifTool, which is widely used for reading and writing metadata and supports very broad editing of image metadata fields. One answer also points to OpenExif as a library that can change and add EXIF metadata.
A key caveat: EXIF/IPTC/XMP metadata follows defined standards, so some fields may seem “locked” because they are standardized rather than arbitrary. In practice, adding truly custom metadata is often better handled through supported metadata schemas rather than forcing nonstandard EXIF tags.
If your goal is flexible metadata editing, ExifTool is the safest recommendation from the answers provided. Just be careful: changing metadata incorrectly can damage compatibility with other software or make files harder to manage later.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI16y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Should I use IPTC, EXIF, or custom tags for archiving family photo metadata?
How can I add external GPS metadata to Lightroom photos without losing edits?
Where Lightroom plug-in custom metadata is stored and whether it can be edited externally
What Mac photo management software can store model bio and contact details with images?
How can I make a fixed-focus webcam focus at 5–20 cm for close-up work?