Batch Renaming and CSV Export
Pattern-based file renaming with dynamic tokens, metadata export to CSV spreadsheets, and batch re-import.
Streamlining Media Organization
Default filenames produced by digital cameras (such as _DSC0421.JPG or IMG_9104.CR3) offer minimal contextual value and complicate long-term archiving across different storage volumes.
rExif includes a rule-based batch renaming engine that leverages metadata tokens, alongside a bidirectional CSV export and import pipeline for tabular spreadsheet workflows.
Pattern-Based Batch Renaming
Through the Batch Rename tool, you can construct naming schemas combining literal characters and dynamic tokens evaluated against each file’s metadata:
Available Dynamic Tokens
| Token | Description | Example Output |
|---|---|---|
{date} | Capture date in compact YYYYMMDD format | 20261014 |
{date_iso} | ISO standard capture date YYYY-MM-DD | 2026-10-14 |
{time} | Capture time HHMMSS | 143015 |
{year} | Four-digit capture year | 2026 |
{month} | Two-digit capture month | 10 |
{camera} | Camera body model string | Sony_A7IV |
{city} | Geotagged city name | Florence |
{original_name} | Previous filename without extension | _DSC0421 |
{nnn} | Zero-padded sequential counter | 001, 002, 003 |
Common Renaming Patterns
- Chronological sequence:
{date}_{time}_{nnn}$\rightarrow$20261014_143015_001.jpg - Location and date:
{date_iso}_{city}_{nnn}$\rightarrow$2026-10-14_Florence_001.heic - Camera gear and source:
{camera}_{date}_{original_name}$\rightarrow$Sony_A7IV_20261014__DSC0421.arw
[!NOTE] rExif checks for potential naming collisions in the target directory in real time. If a rule would generate conflicting filenames, safety suffixes are automatically suggested before executing changes.
Metadata Export to CSV
For archival documentation, museum indexing, or client deliverables, export full metadata sets to CSV (Comma-Separated Values) spreadsheets:
- Select the relevant files in the main table.
- Go to File > Export Metadata to CSV….
- Choose the columns to include (Dates, GPS coordinates, Camera make, Lens, Shutter speed, Aperture, Copyright, Keywords).
- The generated CSV can be inspected and curated in Apple Numbers, Microsoft Excel, or imported into SQL databases.
Re-Importing Changes from CSV
The CSV re-import capability unlocks powerful automated curation pipelines:
- Edit titles, descriptions, dates, or copyright credits within a spreadsheet application utilizing custom formulas or scripts.
- Export the spreadsheet as a CSV while retaining the original file path/name identifier column.
- In rExif, select File > Import Changes from CSV….
- The app matches spreadsheet rows against open files and stages every change in orange preview for verification prior to writing.