SEO Geolocation

In the ever-evolving world of SEO, businesses and marketers are always looking for ways to enhance their online presence. One lesser-known factor that sparks curiosity is image geolocation data. Can embedding location data in images help with SEO? Let’s dive into the details!

What is Image Geolocation Data?

Image geolocation refers to the GPS coordinates stored within an image, indicating where it was taken. The most common way of expressing this information is through EXIF (Exchangeable Image File Format) data.

What Does EXIF Data Include?

EXIF data carries various details about an image, such as:
✔️ Image resolution and dimensions
✔️ Camera settings (ISO, shutter speed, etc.)
✔️ Date and time the photo was taken
✔️ Geolocation (latitude & longitude of where the image was captured)

This means that when a photo is taken with a GPS-enabled camera or smartphone, it can automatically store location details within the image file.

How Can You Find an Image’s Location Data?

If an image contains EXIF data, you can view it using tools like:
🔍 Windows & Mac – Right-click the image > Properties > Details (Windows) or Get Info (Mac).
🔍 Online Tools – Websites like exifdata.com allow you to upload and inspect an image’s metadata.
🔍 Image Editing Software – Programs like Photoshop and Lightroom can also reveal EXIF data.

However, many social media platforms and websites strip EXIF data from uploaded images for privacy reasons.

Does Geolocation Data Benefit SEO?

Now, let’s get to the big question—can embedding geolocation data in images improve SEO?

1. Understanding the Image

Search engines rely on text-based elements like alt tags, file names, and captions to understand images. While EXIF data provides valuable information, Google has not explicitly confirmed that it directly affects rankings.

2. Relevancy for Landscapes & Location-Based Imagery

For industries like real estate, travel, hospitality, and local businesses, image geolocation data can add credibility. If Google associates an image with a specific location, it may reinforce local SEO signals.

3. Local Search & Location Profiles

For businesses targeting a specific region, images with geolocation data might help strengthen Google My Business (GMB) profiles, local search results, and map visibility. For example:
📍 A restaurant uploading geo-tagged images of its menu and ambiance
📍 A travel blog featuring location-specific photos
📍 A real estate agent showcasing property images with embedded location details

As a Freelance Digital Marketer in Malappuram, I often recommend businesses to optimize their local SEO strategies by leveraging various tools, including well-optimized images that support location-based search relevance.

4. What Evidence Do We Have That Geolocation Data Impacts SEO?

🚀 While Google has not confirmed a direct ranking boost, local SEO experts suggest that geo-tagged images can enhance Google My Business rankings and local search visibility.

Additionally, Bing and other search engines may consider EXIF data for image relevancy, making it a potential indirect SEO factor.

Final Thoughts: Should You Use Image Geolocation Data?

✅ If you run a local business, travel blog, or real estate website, embedding geolocation data might provide contextual value and help with local search visibility.
✅ For general SEO, focusing on image alt text, file names, and structured data remains more impactful.
✅ Since platforms like Google strip EXIF data, it’s best used as a supplementary strategy rather than a primary SEO tactic.

While image geolocation alone won’t skyrocket rankings, when combined with strong content, on-page SEO, and local optimization, it can be a helpful tool for reinforcing location relevance.

Would you consider adding geolocation data to your images for SEO? Let’s discuss in the comments! 🚀