Aerial pictures look anonymous, but the file often is not. Drones write GPS coordinates and altitude for every shot, and many also record the aircraft model, gimbal angle, flight speed and a serial number. If you launch from your home, the takeoff point may be your front garden. This guide covers what to look for and how to clean it.
What a drone file can hold
| Item | Where it lives | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| GPS position and altitude | EXIF GPS block, and XMP written by the maker | Shows the exact spot under the aircraft |
| Aircraft or camera model and serial number | EXIF and maker notes | Links every flight to one aircraft |
| Gimbal, flight speed and direction | XMP written by the maker | Shows how and which way you were flying |
| Date and time | EXIF and the video container | Places you at a time |
| Takeoff or home point | Some makers store it in video tracks or logs | May be your address |
Photos and videos need different tools
Still images are usually JPEG or DNG. Clean JPEG with the Image Metadata Remover and DNG with the DNG Metadata Remover. Video is usually MP4 or MOV: use the Video Metadata Remover. Video from some drones also has a separate subtitle or telemetry file next to it, with GPS for every second; delete that file or do not share it.
A simple routine
- Copy the files off the memory card. Keep the originals offline.
- Clean copies of everything you plan to publish.
- Check one cleaned file in the File Metadata Viewer for GPS, serial numbers and maker data.
- Do not post flight logs or screenshots of the app, which show the route on a map.
Rules about flying and publishing aerial images differ by country. Metadata removal protects your privacy; it does not replace following local rules.