Map-Based Exploration for the WordPress Photo Directory Using EXIF GPS Data

[kimjiwoon]

I noticed that the [WordPress Photo Directory](​https://wordpress.org/photos/photo/61867f2e3a/) includes EXIF data, and in many cases, GPS metadata as well. This opens up an exciting opportunity to enhance the directory by integrating a map API (e.g., OpenStreetMap, Leaflet, or Google Maps) to visually display where photos were taken.

Such an implementation could add a powerful geographic storytelling layer—something like a “WordPress World Map of Photos.” This would not only improve the user experience for browsing photos, but also encourage contributors to submit culturally or geographically unique content from around the world.

As an extended idea, we could draw inspiration from the [Niantic Wayfarer criteria](​https://wayfarer.nianticlabs.com/new/criteria/eligibility) used in Pokémon GO, where players submit and review real-world locations. Coupling this with a community role similar to Google Maps Local Guides could help build a community-curated, location-based photo archive, further gamifying and incentivizing contributions.

This also opens up interesting possibilities for Rosetta communities: by tagging and curating local culture, architecture, and events through geolocated photos, local WordPress groups could build visual archives that celebrate regional diversity—potentially even used for Meetup or event storytelling.

In addition, this kind of location display could be extended to Jetpack galleries, similar to how photo apps in Samsung Galaxy, Ubuntu, and Windows 11 natively allow map-based browsing using EXIF data.

To further support this idea, enabling comments on individual photos (perhaps via Jetpack Comments) would allow for additional context-sharing—such as cultural significance, travel stories, or historical notes. These interactions would deepen the educational and social value of the directory and support global community building.

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In summary, this proposal includes:

• Displaying photo locations using EXIF GPS data on a map
• Community-driven curation inspired by Niantic Wayfarer and Google Map Local Guides
• Tighter integration with Rosetta/local communities for showcasing regional content
• Optional location mapping in Jetpack galleries
• Enhanced user interaction through photo-level comments

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This is more than just a feature request—it could become a testbed for unifying WordPress’s diverse community resources (Photos, Translations, Events, and Rosetta) through location-aware design.

Would love to hear your thoughts on this, and whether it’s something the community would be interested in exploring further!