9. Geolocating Images and Videos part 2

Unveiling Locations with Advanced Techniques

Robert Bourgoing/20 November 2024

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Advanced geolocation techniques can uncover the origins of photos and videos with remarkable precision. Here’s a summary of the methods:

Metadata and GPS Coordinates
Metadata embedded in image files often contains GPS coordinates. Use tools like IrfanView or the EXIF Viewer Classic browser extension to access this information. A single click can reveal a photo’s location in Google Maps. However, many platforms strip metadata for privacy, so this isn’t always reliable.
Mountain Ridges and 3D Views
Unique mountain shapes can provide critical clues. By comparing the ridges in a photo with Google Maps’ 3D view, you can pinpoint the location. For instance, identifying a military exercise site in Albania relied on matching mountains and spotting a helipad.
Heat Signature Mapping
For events like forest fires or attacks, NASA’s FIRMS fire map tracks heat signatures globally. By inputting GPS coordinates and adjusting the date range, you can confirm heat-producing events, like a 2016 attack in Nigeria’s Dalori village.
Specialized Tools
Advanced geolocators like Google Earth Pro or PeakVisor enhance accuracy, especially when dealing with complex terrains or natural landmarks.

Combining these tools with observation and persistence enables thorough geolocation, helping to debunk misinformation effectively. Dive in—it’s both a science and an art!

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