Original filename - possible to bring it back?

[frlindla]

Typical origial filenames are like this: IMG_8500. If they are removed from the filename, are they hidden in the metadata somewhere or possible to bring back?

[Mario]

"Removed from the file name", how?

IMatch maintains the original file name in the XMP::xmpMM\PreservedFileName\PreservedFileName tag.

[frlindla]

I mean if a file is renamed and no longer has the original filename as a part of the filename, is it possible to bring it back?

[plastikman]

As Mario, said, Yes... but you need to make sure you don't overwrite the field mentioned below.

IMatch maintains the original file name in the

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XMP::xmpMM\PreservedFileName\PreservedFileName tag.

I have a Metadata that writes my new filenames to that field so I can rename exports but always trace them back to the original filename in my own convention. But you could abuse any other field for that (I write to both PreservedFileName and Title fields).

[Mario]

The preserved file name is only updated by IMatch when it is empty, during a rename.
It is supposed to contain the original file name.

Depending on your workflow and the other applications you use, this tag may already be filled when you index your files with IMatch.
Which is as it should be. The first application in the chain that changes the file name should set this tag.

[frlindla]

Perhaps a stupid question, but how do I find it?

[Mario]

This tag is not part of any of the standard metadata panel layouts. You can see it in the Browser layout, which shows all tags.
Switch to the browser layout and search for PreservedFileName with Ctrl+F.

If you need it often, you can add it to one of your Metadata Panel layouts.

Or copy and paste this variable into VarToy:

{File.MD.XMP::xmpMM\PreservedFileName\PreservedFileName}

Note that this tag is empty or does not exist until the file has been renamed once in an application like IMatch.