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How to Geotag Photos and Videos for Better Local SEO

Overview

Geotagging your photos and videos means embedding GPS location data directly into the media files. This is crucial for improving your local SEO, especially on Google. 

When Google can see exactly where a photo or video was taken, it boosts your rankings in local search results and directory listings.

This guide covers everything you need to know to ensure your photos and videos are properly geotagged, helping you outrank competitors who overlook this simple yet powerful step.

Why Geotagging Matters

  • Improves Local Search Rankings: Google uses GPS metadata to determine where a photo or video was taken. If your content is geotagged to a specific city or neighborhood (e.g., Richmond, Virginia), your business is more likely to show up in local searches for that area.

  • Expands Your Reach: If you work on projects in nearby towns, geotagging photos from those locations can help you rank better there, even if your business address is elsewhere.

  • Competitor Advantage: Many professionals, even experienced photographers, don’t enable or understand geotagging. Proper geotagging can give you a significant edge.

  • Images in Search Results: Geotagged photos are more likely to appear in Google image search results, increasing your visibility.

How to Check if Your Photos/Videos are Geotagged

  1. Locate the file on your computer or device.

  2. Right-click the file and select "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac).

  3. Go to the "Details" tab (Windows) or look under "More Info" (Mac).

  4. Look for GPS data such as latitude and longitude coordinates.

If GPS data is present, your photo or video is geotagged. If not, the location wasn’t recorded.

How to Enable Geotagging on Your Devices

For Smartphones (e.g., iPhone or Android):

  • Go to your phone’s Settings.

  • Navigate to Privacy > Location Services.

  • Ensure Location Services are turned ON.

  • Scroll down to your Camera app settings.

  • Set location access to “While Using the App” or “Always”.

Note: Even if general Location Services are enabled, the Camera app itself often defaults to location off, preventing geotagging.

For Digital Cameras:

  • Consult your camera’s manual to enable GPS tagging or location data.

  • Some cameras require pairing with a smartphone app or external GPS device.

Important Tips for Handling Photos and Videos

  • Do not compress or edit files before sending: File compression (via email, messaging apps, or photo editing software) often strips away GPS metadata.

  • Send original, unedited photos/videos: This preserves location data and image quality.

  • Test your setup: After enabling location services, take a test photo, then check the file properties to confirm GPS data is included.

Advanced: Editing or Adding GPS Data Manually

If your photos or videos lack GPS data, you can add it manually with specialized tools:

  • Photoshop: Allows editing EXIF data, including GPS.

  • GeoSetter: A free downloadable program for Windows that edits geotags.

  • Online tools: Websites like image-seo.io offer paid services to edit EXIF data.

  • Google Maps: Use to find precise GPS coordinates by dropping a pin on the project location, then enter those coordinates into your EXIF editor.

Summary Checklist

  • Enable location services on all devices used for photography/videography.

  • Ensure the camera app has permission to access location data.

  • Avoid compressing or editing photos/videos before submission.

  • Verify GPS data is embedded by checking file properties.

  • Use EXIF editors if you need to add or correct location info.

  • Share this knowledge with your team to keep geotagging consistent.

Feel lost with geotagging? We've got you covered. Reach out to us for assistance getting your photos optimized for local search.