📸 How to View EXIF Data on Windows, Mac, and Linux
A simple guide to checking photo metadata across different operating systems.
Every photo you take with a digital camera or smartphone often contains hidden details called EXIF data (Exchangeable Image File Format). These details may include the date and time of capture, the camera model, exposure settings, and sometimes even GPS location. In this guide, you’ll learn how to view EXIF data on Windows, Mac, and Linux without complicated tools.
Viewing EXIF Data on Windows
- Right-click on the photo → choose Properties.
- Go to the Details tab.
- See information such as camera model, ISO, exposure, and date taken.
For more detailed output, use PowerShell:
Get-ItemProperty -Path "C:\path\to\photo.jpg" | Format-List *Viewing EXIF Data on Mac (macOS)
- Open the image in Preview.
- From the menu, go to Tools → Show Inspector (or press Command + I).
- Select the Exif tab to view details.
Or use the Terminal with:
mdls photo.jpgViewing EXIF Data on Linux
Linux doesn’t have a built-in photo inspector, but there are powerful tools available:
Using exiftool
sudo apt install libimage-exiftool-perlexiftool photo.jpgUsing ImageMagick
identify -verbose photo.jpgA Faster Way: Online EXIF Viewer
If you don’t want to open File Explorer, Preview, or Terminal, you can use an online tool. For example, EXIF Data Viewer lets you upload an image and instantly see all EXIF details — no installation required.
Conclusion
Whether you use Windows, Mac, or Linux, checking EXIF data is simple and only takes a few clicks or commands. Try inspecting your own photos — you might be surprised at the hidden details, especially GPS location.
If you care about privacy, you may also want to batch remove EXIF metadata before sharing your photos online.