How to remove image metadata
Metadata removal creates new JPG, PNG or WebP files from decoded visible pixels instead of copying common embedded metadata blocks. This practical sharing workflow omits common camera, device and location information while retaining the original separately.
Steps
- 1Keep the source separately
Retain the original when capture time, device information, orientation data or editing history may be needed later.
- 2Choose the output behavior
Select the output format and review transparency or lossy-quality effects before creating new files from the decoded pixels.
- 3Inspect the actual copy
Open the downloaded result, review its visual content and consider whether the destination may add new metadata after upload.
Key decisions
How are common EXIF blocks omitted?
The workflow decodes the image pixels and encodes a new file rather than copying the source container and its common embedded metadata blocks.
Does metadata removal hide visible information?
No. Faces, plates, screens, addresses and reflections remain visible unless they are cropped or obscured separately.
Before you download
Know the limits
- Re-encoding is a practical sharing method rather than a forensic guarantee for every proprietary image container.
- A destination service can create or attach new metadata after the downloaded copy leaves this workflow.
- Format changes can affect transparency or introduce lossy encoding, so the visual copy must also be checked.
Verify the copy
Common questions
Is common GPS information copied into the new file?
The result is encoded from visible pixels without copying the source’s common EXIF metadata blocks, including common location fields.
Does this also blur faces or license plates?
No. Metadata and visible pixels are different concerns; use the sensitive-detail editor for visible identifiers.