EXIF and XMP metadata headers are the hidden coordinates that tell Google Maps how to position and orient 360° panoramas. If an equirectangular image loses its embedded GPano XMP metadata headers—such as PoseHeadingDegrees (compass heading) or GPS latitude and longitude—during Photoshop editing, Google Maps cannot position the scene, resulting in broken links. In this metadata guide, we examine essential EXIF tags required for Google Street View publishing.
1. 1. Critical GPano XMP Metadata Headers
Google Maps requires specific XMP header tags embedded inside equirectangular JPEGs: - GPano:UsePanoramaViewer = True (Triggers 360 spherical viewer canvas) - GPano:PoseHeadingDegrees = Compass yaw angle (0° to 360° relative to true North) - GPano:PosePitchDegrees & PoseRollDegrees = Leveling orientation angles (typically 0.0 for level tripods) - GPSLatitude & GPSLongitude = Precise geographical coordinates of the camera node
- GPano:UsePanoramaViewer: Required header enabling 360 spherical projection.
- PoseHeadingDegrees: Compass yaw orientation relative to true North.
- GPS Latitude/Longitude: Geographical placement on Google Maps.
2. 2. How PanoPublish Audits & Injects EXIF Data Automatically
When you upload panoramic photos, PanoPublish automatically checks EXIF headers. If compass heading tags are missing or inaccurate due to indoor magnetic interference, PanoPublish allows you to adjust heading dials visually before sending API calls to Google.
- Automated Pre-Upload Audit: Verifying metadata completeness.
- Visual Yaw Alignment: Adjusting compass dials graphically.
- Zero Data Loss: Preserving original RAW EXIF tags in exports.
Common Questions & Answers
Why does Lightroom or Photoshop strip GPano XMP headers?
Certain export presets strip custom XMP headers. Ensure 'All Metadata' is selected during JPEG export in photo editing software.
What happens if PoseHeadingDegrees is set incorrectly?
Clicking forward arrows on Google Maps will spin the camera in the wrong direction. Auditing yaw headings in PanoPublish fixes this instantly.
