Geotagging

Adding geographical metadata to photographs, videos, websites etc has become a popular flair because of the inherent utility value involved in the process. In the case of photographs or videos, even a casual onlooker will be able to understand and appreciate the importance of the given sequence or situation, from the data provided therewith. Such data consist of latitude, longitude and altitude of the location apart from other important specific information. For example date and time of shooting are important to identify and understand the importance of the event or individuals depicted in the media.

With the incorporation of Global Positioning System (GPS) in the smart phones, geo tagging has become an easier exercise. With the 5 Megapixel and 8 Megapixel built in cameras of the smart phones, geo tagging can be achieved provided it is GPS enabled. As indicated earlier the user will be able to secure information about the locations depicted in the photographs by entering the latitude and longitude of the place. Geo tagging is of great help to the tourists and businesspersons to identity their destinations from the media without difficulties. Websites also can be geo tagged to render valuable guidance to the users.

Advantages of geo tagging are innumerable. One can remember the exact date and time of visit to a particular place from the photographs shot on different occasions. With the modern mobile devices like Blackberry and Apples’ iPhone, geo tagging has become very popular among the smart phone users. It is very common for people to confuse the locations and occasions of a photo or video coverage. By adding contextual titles to the digital photos, the user can organize the collection by systematically indexing them. Geo tagging adds a new dimension to such collections by reminding the significance of the occasions. It is possible to attach geographic identifiers like codes or other location specific details as the modern cameras are provided with GPS units.

Travelers or tourists can use hand held GPS to record their routes and upload them to the computer. Suitable software is now available to identify the exact location, date and time at which the photos are shot. Geo tagging is a new method to arrange innumerable photos with location details without complicated technical expertise. Latest products from Microsoft have made the process simple to use even without the aid of GPS devices. Such innovative geo tagging software can be downloaded at their websites which make the job easier for photographers.