LPF Explorer · Version 1.0.0
Frequently Asked Questions
Sensible answers. The occasional raised eyebrow.
Everything you wanted to know about LPF Explorer, including a few things you were probably too polite to ask.
Do I need to import my photographs?
No. Point Explorer at your existing archive. Your folders are already doing a perfectly respectable job of being folders.
Does it create another photo library?
No proprietary catalogue. Explorer uses a disposable local index for speed, but your photographs stay where you put them.
Do I need an account or cloud service?
No. No account, no cloud and no mysterious upload progress bar.
Does my archive need a particular folder structure?
No. Year/date folders work well, but Explorer does not insist on them.
What about RAW+JPEG pairs?
Associated RAW and JPEG files can be treated as one photograph, without moving or modifying the originals.
What can I search?
Filenames, XMP titles, descriptions, keywords and locations. Good metadata helps; sometimes paperwork does pay off.
Can I combine search filters?
Yes. Combine search text, minimum star rating, dates and Finder workflow tags.
Smart collection or manual collection: which is which?
Smart collections save a search; manual collections save your selection. Neither copies or moves photographs.
Can I organize collections into groups?
Yes, one level of groups for each collection type. Enough organisation to be useful, not enough to need an organisational chart.
Does deleting a collection delete my photographs?
No. A collection contains references, not photographs. Your originals remain in their folders.
Can Explorer edit XMP metadata?
No. Descriptive metadata is read-only here. Use LPF Organizer to edit titles, descriptions, keywords and other XMP fields.
Can I change Finder workflow tags in Explorer?
Not in V1.0.0. Explorer filters by Finder tags; use Finder to change them.
Can I use an external photo editor?
Yes. Open photographs with other applications or send selected photographs to LPF Organizer for metadata editing.
Do I need LPF Organizer?
No. Explorer works independently. Organizer V1.0.1 or later is needed only for the handoff feature.
What if my archive is offline?
Cached metadata may remain visible, but you need to reconnect the storage to open originals. Then synchronize.
Is there a subscription?
No. We briefly considered charging you monthly to search your own folders, but it seemed rather impolite. Donations are optional.
Why might macOS block the first launch?
The current version is not yet Apple-notarized. Follow the installation guidance and approve it only if you trust the download source.
Still wondering? Get in touch. Found something useful? Coffee is always welcome.