Again and again you send us images that have been taken out of context for review. Today we will show you which guide we use to check these.

Or how you can help yourself find the meaning of images and graphics. The following list is intended to serve as a guide on how to sort photos into context.

Adapted from the English-language original on firstdraftnews.com .
Just click through the tabs!


1. Is this an original photo?

A reverse image search finds exactly the same photo, but before the event described and in a different context.
A reverse image search finds parts of the photo in other images, suggesting that the image is composed of multiple images
A date search shows that this is the first publication of the photo, but there is no confirmation from the uploader yet
It is not found anywhere else, and a simple examination of the shadows and reflections reveals no manipulation
It was sent directly, the source is personally known and interviewed about the photo

2. WHO took the photo?

You received it anonymously by email or via chat
It was published on a social network, the creator uses a pseudonym and wishes to remain anonymous, the pseudonym does not appear anywhere else
The uploader/creator can be identified through a name search, reverse image search of the profile photo and/or Whois search for the operator of the blog or website
The authenticity of the photo can be confirmed by chatting with the uploader
The uploader was able to be questioned about the photo; the EXIF ​​data of the photo, the weather and the uploader's “online footprints” matched his information

3. WHERE was the photo taken?

There are neither verifiable location details nor verifiable clues in the photo
There are other photos of the same scene, but satellite photos or street view images cannot confirm the location
Traffic and business signs, buildings and clothing can confirm a specific location
The exact location can be verified using satellite photos, street view and dimensions
The uploader can confirm the location using the visible signs or landscape; the information corresponds to the street view and satellite photos

4. WHEN was the picture taken?

It was sent anonymously, there is no EXIF ​​data in the photo
The date of initial publication on social networks can be verified, but there is no EXIF ​​data to confirm this date
The image was first published shortly after the event; what was photographed corresponds to witness statements
The weather information, location, time and shadows correspond to the information provided by the uploader
The EXIF ​​data of the photo corresponds to all other information and results

5. WHY was the photo taken?

The creator is unknown and no specific motivation is apparent for taking the photo
The account tends to post photos and messages that go in a certain direction, for example political
A more detailed online search reveals that the uploader is associated with a specific organization that moves in a specific (political) direction
The uploader's activities on social networks show that he is taking photos for reasons, for example as a local journalist or photographer
The photographer/uploader can credibly explain the circumstances that led to the photo being taken

This information can be printed out as a graphic! (Right mouse button: Save target as)

Photo Forensics
Photo Forensics

The following links would also be recommended:


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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )