A geotagged photograph is a photograph that is associated with a geographic position by geotagging. This is usually done by assigning at least a latitude and longitude to the image, and optionally elevation, compass bearing, and other fields may be included. Geotagging is the process of appending geographic coordinates to media based on the location of a mobile device. Geotags can be applied to photos, videos, websites, text messages, and QR codes, and could also include time stamps or other contextual information.

Geotagged photos may be visually stamped with their GPS location information using software tools. A stamped photo affords universal and cross-platform viewing of the photos location and offers the security of retaining that location information in the event of metadata corruption or if file metadata is stripped from a photo, e.g., when uploading to various online photo sharing communities.

There are a few methods of geotagging photographs, either automatic or manual. Automatic methods provide the easiest and most precise method of geotagging an image, providing that a good signal has been acquired at the time of taking the photo. Many smartphones automatically geotag their photos by default. Photographers who prefer not to reveal their location can turn this feature off. Additionally, smartphones can use their GPS to geotag photos taken with an external camera.

Geotagging provides helpful insight into consumer activity. By using geotags to analyze where and how consumers interact with their brands, organizations can provide specialized offers and messaging. Geotags also reveal where individuals are when engaging with a website or where they move throughout the day with their mobile device. Retailers and restaurants can use geotags to see how consumers are engaging with their brands and can inform advertising campaigns based on that activity. Likewise, local governments or public planning departments can analyze geotags to better understand their constituents and where they need products and services.

In summary, geotagging is the process of appending geographic coordinates to media based on the location of a mobile device. Geotagged photos can be used to analyze consumer activity and provide insight into where individuals are when engaging with a website or moving throughout the day with their mobile device.