Local Processing
MetaPhotoAI offers the ability to generate image metadata using local AI models. This allows you to process your photo library on your own hardware without using cloud credits or requiring an internet connection.
Warning
While photos can be processed locally, video metadata generation is currently only available online. All video analysis requires an active internet connection and will consume your monthly cloud credits.
Benefits of Local Photo Processing#
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| No Credits Required | Metadata generation for images is free and does not consume your monthly credit allowance |
| Privacy | All image analysis is performed on your machine; no data ever leaves your computer |
| Offline Access | Process your photo library anywhere, even without a network connection |
Prerequisites for Local AI#
Local AI requires significant computing power. You will need:
- A computer with sufficient CPU/GPU resources and RAM
- Ollama: A third-party application used to run large language models locally
Setting Up Ollama#
Check status
In MetaPhotoAI, go to Settings > Local Processing.
Download
If Ollama is not installed, click the link provided in the instructions or visit ollama.com/download.
Install
Run the installer for your operating system (macOS, Windows, or Linux).
Launch
Open the Ollama application. You must ensure the Ollama server is running for MetaPhotoAI to connect to it.
Downloading AI Models#
Before you can process photos locally, you must download a compatible AI model:
Recommended Models#
| Model | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Gemma 3 4B | Recommended for mid-range hardware |
| Gemma 3 12B | Provides higher accuracy but requires more system resources |
Download Command#
Open your computer's Terminal (macOS) or Command Prompt (Windows) and type:
ollama pull gemma3:4b
For the larger model:
ollama pull gemma3:12b
Note
These files are several gigabytes in size and may take time depending on your internet speed.
Enabling and Using Local Processing#
Enable in Settings
Go to MetaPhotoAI Settings > Local Processing and toggle "Enable Local Processing" to ON.
Check the Local toggle
In the top navigation bar, you will see a "Local" button.
Process media
Select your images and click "Generate Metadata." A blue "LOCAL" badge will appear next to the processing task in the right panel.
Local Toggle States#
| State | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green | Local processing is active (Photos only) |
| Gray | Cloud processing is active (Uses credits for photos and videos) |
Performance Expectations#
Local processing speed is entirely dependent on your computer's hardware:
| Processing Type | Typical Speed |
|---|---|
| Cloud Processing | Highly optimized and fast (e.g., 2 images in ~3 seconds) |
| Local Processing | Slower, depending on your CPU/GPU (e.g., 2 images in ~25 seconds) |
System Requirements#
For optimal local processing performance:
| Component | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| RAM | 16GB minimum, 32GB recommended |
| GPU | Dedicated GPU with 8GB+ VRAM recommended |
| Storage | SSD with 10GB+ free space for models |
| CPU | Modern multi-core processor |
Tip
By setting up local processing, you gain a private and cost-effective way to manage your photo metadata, while reserving your cloud credits specifically for video content.
Troubleshooting#
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Ollama not detected | Ensure Ollama is running in the background |
| Slow processing | Try the smaller 4B model or upgrade hardware |
| Connection errors | Restart Ollama and MetaPhotoAI |
| Model not found | Run the ollama pull command again |
Next Steps#
- Use batch processing with local AI
- Configure workflows for automation
- Check your account for credit status