1) Import photos
Open the app and click Pick Photos, or drag files directly into the Main screen.
Documentation Center
Learn the full Gledhill Metadata workflow
From first import to production-ready batch output — this guide helps you onboard quickly and troubleshoot effectively.
Current release v1.8.0
Quick start
Use this path for your first successful batch in under five minutes. If you prefer a screenshot walkthrough, open the visual user guide.
2) Select output rules
Choose the metadata template and naming convention that fit the batch.
3) Review previews
Check selected photos, metadata intent, and generated filenames before applying.
4) Apply and verify
Accept the confirmation prompt, then spot-check a few files to confirm the result.
Tip: Keep one clean “golden template” for recurring workflows. See the safe apply checklist before running a new batch.
Metadata templates
Templates standardize metadata entry and reduce repetitive editing across shoots.
- Create a template with supported, commonly used fields.
- Name it clearly by workflow (e.g., Wedding-Editorial).
- Favorite important templates or set one as the default from the three-dot menu.
- Apply the template to selected photos from the Main screen.
Recommended field order: Title → Description / Subject → Tags / Keywords → Comments / Headline → Authors / Creator → Copyright. For screenshots, see metadata workflows in the user guide.
Renaming files safely
Use naming conventions to generate consistent output without manual renaming.
Preview first
Always verify generated names before applying to a full folder.
Keep sequencing clear
Use predictable sequence patterns for sorting and archive continuity.
Test on duplicates
When testing a new scheme, start with copied files to avoid accidental overwrite surprises.
Combine with templates
Template + naming convention creates a fast, repeatable production loop.
Need examples? The rename workflow guide shows the rename library and details editor.
Media gallery
Reference screenshots for onboarding, release notes, and support messages. The full screenshot walkthrough lives in the visual user guide.
Video tutorial
Embed your official setup and workflow tutorial for visual onboarding.
Troubleshooting
Start here when something behaves unexpectedly. Most issues fall into permissions, unsupported metadata fields, naming patterns, or app settings.
Photo picker does not open on macOS
Check macOS System Settings for file/folder access permissions. You can also drag images into the Main screen as a workaround while permissions are being fixed.
Some metadata appears to remain after clearing
Certain embedded tags, especially color/profile data, may be preserved because removing them can affect image appearance. If a specific tag should be removed, include the exact tag name and file type in a bug report.
Window size feels wrong on launch
Resize once and close normally; the app restores the last window dimensions on next launch.
I see an error but not the full details
By default, full error details are not shown immediately. Open Settings → Safety & errors to review the recent error log, or enable Show full errors immediately if you want detailed messages on screen.
Frequently asked questions
Does Gledhill Metadata upload my photos?
No. The app is local-first. Photos and metadata are processed on your computer rather than uploaded to a cloud service.
Which metadata fields should I use first?
Start with Title, Description/Subject, Tags/Keywords, Headline, Creator/Author, and Copyright. These fields cover most publishing and archive workflows.
What is the difference between metadata templates and rename rules?
Metadata templates write values into image metadata. Rename rules generate filenames. A normal batch uses one of each.
Can I make a template or rename rule the default?
Yes. Use the three-dot menu on an item in Workflows and choose Set as Default, or choose defaults in Settings.
Why do I need a sequence token in rename rules?
A sequence token helps prevent duplicate names when several photos share the same date, title, or metadata values.
Can I change keyboard shortcuts?
Yes. Open Settings → Keyboard shortcuts to customize Select All, Unselect All, Delete Selected, Apply, and Pick Photos.
What should I do before applying changes to a large batch?
Review selected photos, confirm the template and rename rule, inspect the rename preview, and keep the Apply confirmation enabled. For new workflows, test on copied files first.
Where do I find full error details?
Open Settings → Safety & errors. The app keeps the most recent errors there and includes them when you use Copy Bug Details.
Does the Linux version use an installer?
The Linux build is distributed as an AppImage. The website also provides optional install and uninstall scripts for convenience.
Where can I see the app screens step by step?
Open the visual user guide for a screenshot-based walkthrough of the Main, Workflows, and Settings screens.
Report better bugs, get faster fixes
Open Settings in the app and use Copy Bug Details before filing an issue.
- What you expected
- What happened instead
- OS + app version
- Sample filename or metadata key