How to Tag Photos in Windows 11
If you’ve got a bunch of photos on your Windows 11 machine and you’re tired of endlessly scrolling to find the one you need, tagging is your new best friend. Tagging photos can make it super easy to organize and locate your images. In just a few steps, you can add descriptive tags that will help you sort through your photo collection with ease.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Tag Photos in Windows 11
In this section, we’re going to walk through the exact steps you need to tag photos in Windows 11. By the end, you’ll have a well-organized photo library.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon located on your taskbar.
To get started, you first need to access your file system. File Explorer is your gateway to all the files on your computer. Find the icon that looks like a yellow folder; it’s usually pinned right on your taskbar. Click on it to open File Explorer.
Step 2: Navigate to Your Photos
Navigate to the folder where your photos are stored.
Once File Explorer is open, browse to the location where your photos are saved. This might be in the Pictures folder or a specific folder you created. Use the left-hand sidebar to navigate through your directories.
Step 3: Select a Photo
Select the photo you want to tag by clicking on it.
Find the specific photo you want to tag. Click on the photo once to select it. When a photo is highlighted, it means it’s selected and ready for the next steps.
Step 4: Open the Properties Window
Right-click on the selected photo and choose ‘Properties’ from the context menu.
Right-clicking the selected photo will bring up a context menu. From there, click on ‘Properties’ at the bottom of the menu. This will open a new window with various tabs.
Step 5: Add Tags
In the Properties window, click on the ‘Details’ tab and then click on the ‘Tags’ field to add your tags.
Once you’re in the Properties window, switch to the ‘Details’ tab. Under the ‘Description’ section, you’ll see a field labeled ‘Tags’. Click on this field to start adding tags. Simply type in your tags, separating each one with a semicolon.
Step 6: Save Your Changes
Click ‘OK’ to save your changes.
After adding your tags, make sure to click the ‘OK’ button to save them. If you don’t, your hard work will be for nothing, and the tags won’t be applied to your photo.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your photo will have the tags you added. You can now use these tags to easily search and organize your photos.
Tips for Tagging Photos in Windows 11
- Be Descriptive: Use descriptive tags that make sense for the photo to make searching easier.
- Use Consistent Tags: Stick to a consistent tagging system to avoid confusion.
- Tag in Batches: If you have multiple photos that need the same tags, select them all and add tags at once.
- Review Regularly: Check your tags periodically to make sure they still make sense.
- Backup Your Photos: Always backup your photos before making any changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search for tagged photos in Windows 11?
You can search for tagged photos by typing the tag into the search bar in File Explorer.
Can I tag multiple photos at once?
Yes, you can select multiple photos and then follow the same steps to add tags to all of them simultaneously.
Why are my tags not saving?
Make sure you click ‘OK’ after adding tags. If you click ‘Cancel’ or close the window without saving, the tags won’t be applied.
Can I edit tags later?
Absolutely! Simply repeat the steps to access the Properties window and edit the tags as needed.
Are tags visible in all photo programs?
Tags added in Windows 11 are generally visible in most photo viewing and editing programs, but it can vary depending on the software.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to your photos.
- Select a photo.
- Open the Properties window.
- Add tags.
- Save changes.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a straightforward way to tag photos in Windows 11. This simple process can save you a ton of time and headaches down the road. Imagine never having to scroll through endless thumbnails again!
Tagging is like giving each photo a little digital Post-it note, making it super easy to find what you need when you need it. Plus, it’s free and built right into Windows 11, so why not make the most of it?
If you found this guide helpful, why not share it with a friend or family member who could use a hand organizing their digital life? And if you have any more questions or need further reading, Microsoft’s support website has plenty of additional resources to explore.
Happy tagging!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.