XnView Software

So, I hadn't realised that moving folders manually was going to create filepath havoc.

Previously to starting using this software, I always downloaded my photos to a temp folder and, once I'd edited, renamed, etc, I moved them to a permanent folder. I followed the same procedure with XnView MP. After having categorised thousands of photos, I have suddenly realised my mistake. When I search through the categories, everything seems fine (as I get to see the thumbnails created before I moved the folders). But as I go through the actual folders, the photos have no categories assigned.

How do you suggest I fix the problem?

Thanks in advance.

Before trying anything, copy "Xnview.db" into a safe place for backup.

I hope "Export categories to xmp subject and iptc kewords" was enabled ( in tools, settings, metadata )
If it was, your categories are written in jpg files, and xnviewmp can rebuild the database. (but it's a bit long to explain)
You can also select a few photos and try "View, Update catalog from files"
If this action gives good results, you can try it on many more photos ..

if categories were not written in photos (neither xmp subject , xmp hierarchical subject, nor iptc keywords) , you can verify links between images and categories in an exported file :
- In categories panel, a down arrow shows "File's categories" , "export" ; click this feature to export a xml file.
With a text editor, you can read filenames, folders and categories in this fle, and check if they are correct.
Maybe a "search and replace" can repair links, if photos have been moved ... (use a backup copy of the xml file)
If you can repair this file, then you'll have to use File's categories, import ...

do you have moved folder in XnView?

@michel038:
Oops. "Export categories to xmp subject and iptc kewords" is now enabled, but it wasn't before. "View, Update catalog from files" didn't work.

I exported the categories for a small folder and fixed the filepaths. Unfortunately, when I imported back in, it was still without categories. I will try it again, just in case.

Thank you for all your help.


@xnview:
I moved the folder in the file explorer, as I've always done.

I've gone through each filename for each photo (in a folder) in a text editor to make sure the filename matches the current filepath. When I import the file back, the categories for those few photos remain empty.

I'm starting to feel resigned to going through it all again.

With original xnview.db and original File's categories xmp, you can try the other way : "View, ... Update files from catalog" (few images selected)

The option "Export categories to xmp subject and iptc kewords" will write categories in metadata keywords in jpg files.

Try on a few images, and look in info pane if iptc, xmp metadata are written.
If you are ok to use these metadata it's a way to save categories , compatible with any other softwares.

if you don't export metadata in file itself or sidecar, then catalog only is used. If you move a folder in file explorer, categories can't be moved.