Workflows Guide
Workflows are a powerful automation feature in MetaPhotoAI that allow you to combine multiple repetitive tasks into a single, one-click operation. Instead of manually generating metadata, then categories, then exporting, and finally uploading, you can create a custom sequence that handles everything automatically.
Creating a New Workflow#
Access the Manager
Click the "Workflow" icon in the top navigation bar or the "Workflow" button in the bottom action bar and select "Manage Workflows."
Start New
Click the "+ New" button in the Workflow Management window.
Configure General Information
- Workflow Name: Give your automation a clear name (e.g., "Shutterstock Automator")
- Description: (Optional) Add details to help you identify the workflow's purpose
Select Workflow Actions
Check the boxes for the actions you want to include in the sequence.
Create
Click "Create" (or "Save" if editing) to add the workflow to your library.
Available Workflow Actions#
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Generate Metadata | AI analysis for titles, descriptions, and keywords |
| Generate Categories | AI assignment of images to relevant categories |
| Write EXIF Data | Embeds generated metadata into the physical files |
| Export CSV | Generates a spreadsheet in your chosen format |
| Upload to FTP | Sends your files to pre-configured stock agencies |
| Send Notification | Alert you once the entire sequence is complete |
Tip
Select the specific CSV template and FTP host from the dropdown menus when configuring these actions.
Error Handling Settings#
You can configure how the workflow should react if a file fails:
- Continue with successful items - Skip failed files and continue processing
- Stop on first error - Halt the entire workflow if any file fails
Running a Workflow#
Select Your Media
Highlight the folder or specific images/videos in the filmstrip you wish to process.
Execute
Click the "Workflow" button in the bottom action bar.
Choose Your Workflow
Select the name of the workflow you created from the list.
Monitoring Progress#
Once initiated, a "Workflow" panel will open on the right side of the screen:
- Active Tab: Displays the current status of each step in the sequence (e.g., "Step 1/5: Generating Metadata")
- Real-Time Updates: Watch as the AI finishes tagging, creates the CSV, and initiates the upload
- Completed Status: A final notification will confirm that all files have been processed and uploaded
Example: Stock Agency Workflow#
Here's an example workflow for submitting to Shutterstock:
- Generate Metadata - AI creates titles, descriptions, keywords
- Generate Categories - AI assigns Shutterstock categories
- Write EXIF Data - Embed metadata in files
- Export CSV - Create Shutterstock-formatted CSV
- Upload to FTP - Send files to Shutterstock FTP
- Send Notification - Get notified when complete
Note
This entire sequence runs with one click, potentially processing hundreds of images automatically.
Benefits of Using Workflows#
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Time Savings | Process hundreds of images from raw file to stock agency submission in seconds |
| Reduced Errors | Automated sequences ensure no steps are accidentally skipped |
| Consistency | Every project follows the same professional standard |
| Scalability | Handle large volumes without manual intervention |
Warning
Always review a sample of processed images before submitting large batches to ensure quality.
Managing Existing Workflows#
To edit or delete existing workflows:
- Open the Workflow Manager
- Select the workflow you want to modify
- Click "Edit" to change settings or "Delete" to remove it
Next Steps#
- Configure FTP settings for stock agency uploads
- Create CSV templates for different agencies
- Set up local processing for offline work