How to Alter Created Date of Photo on Mac
In the digital age, managing your photos is essential, and one common question that often arises is how to alter the created date of a photo on a Mac. Whether you’re trying to organize your photos chronologically or simply correcting an incorrect date, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Understanding the File’s Metadata
Before diving into the actual steps, it’s important to understand that the “created date” of a photo on a Mac refers to the metadata that specifies when the photo was taken or imported into your computer. This information is embedded in the photo file itself and can be accessed and modified using various tools and software.
Using the Right Tools
To alter the created date of a photo on a Mac, you have a few options at your disposal. The simplest way is to use the built-in functionality of the Photos app, while more advanced users might opt for third-party applications that offer more customization and control.
Step-by-Step Guide: Using the Photos App
1. Open the Photos App: First, open the Photos app on your Mac. This is the default photo management application that comes pre-installed on macOS.
2. Select the Photo: Find the photo you want to alter the date for and click on it to select it.
3. Use the Inspector: Click on the “Inspector” button at the bottom right corner of the Photos app to open the Inspector panel.
4. Access the File’s Information: In the Inspector panel, click on the “Info” tab. Here, you’ll find all the metadata associated with the photo, including the created date.
5. Edit the Date: Click on the created date field and change it to the date you want. You can enter the date manually or use the calendar icon to select it.
6. Save Changes: Once you’ve made the changes, click on the “Done” button in the Inspector panel to save the new date.
Using Third-Party Applications
If the Photos app doesn’t meet your needs, there are several third-party applications available that offer more robust features for editing photo metadata. Some popular options include iPhotoEdit, Metadata Fixer, and PhotoScape. These applications typically offer a more user-friendly interface and additional metadata fields that you can modify.
Step-by-Step Guide: Using a Third-Party Application
1. Install a Third-Party Application: Choose a third-party application that suits your needs and install it on your Mac.
2. Open the Application: Launch the application and import the photo you want to modify.
3. Access the Metadata: Within the application, navigate to the metadata section where you can view and edit the created date.
4. Edit the Date: Make the necessary changes to the created date, just as you would in the Photos app.
5. Save and Export: Once you’ve made the changes, save the file and export it to your desired location.
Conclusion
Altering the created date of a photo on a Mac is a straightforward process, whether you use the built-in Photos app or opt for a third-party application. By understanding the metadata and using the right tools, you can easily organize your photos and ensure they are displayed with the correct dates.
