XMP

XMP, short for Extensible Metadata Platform, is an open, XML-based framework for embedding and transporting metadata within digital media files. Developed by Adobe Systems in the early 2000s, it provides a standardized way to attach descriptive and administrative information to images, videos, PDFs, and other file types so metadata travels with the file across applications and storage media.

Technically, XMP models metadata using the RDF (Resource Description Framework) approach, organizing information into properties within named schemas or namespaces. Common schemas include Dublin Core, IPTC Core, EXIF, and XMP Basic, with additional vendor- and format-specific schemas. Metadata can be serialized as RDF/XML within a file or stored in an external sidecar file with an .xmp extension. In practice, some file formats embed XMP directly in their structure (for example, in JPEGs via an APP1 segment, or within PDF metadata streams), while others may reference an accompanying XMP sidecar.

Origins and standards: XMP was introduced by Adobe in 2001 and evolved into an ISO standard, with ISO 16684 and related specifications defining its core model and schemas. The core specification is often referred to as XMP Core, and ongoing work adds schemas to support broader interoperability, preservation, and rights metadata.

Usage and benefits: XMP enables consistent metadata across software platforms, aiding asset management, search, discovery, rights management, and long-term preservation. It is widely supported by major software suites, including Adobe Creative Cloud and various digital asset management systems, as well as open-source tools that can read and write XMP.

Limitations and considerations: Embedding metadata can increase file size and may be overwritten by some applications that do not preserve XMP. Privacy and security concerns arise when sensitive information is embedded, so careful handling and option for sidecar storage may be appropriate in some workflows.