Google Workspace Migration

How to Transfer Google Photos to OneDrive With Original Dates

Olivia Miller Sep 28, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users want to transfer their photo library from Google Photos to Microsoft OneDrive while preserving the original capture dates instead of replacing them with the current upload or transfer date.

How to Transfer Google Photos to OneDrive With Original Dates

Product: Google Photos, Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Migrating media files between cloud storage platforms without losing chronological organization and EXIF data.
Observed behavior: When uploading files directly to OneDrive, the system often organizes photos based on the upload or synchronization time rather than the original photo metadata.

Before you start

Verify that your OneDrive account has sufficient storage space to accommodate your entire photo library, and test the transfer process with a small batch of 10-20 photos first to confirm the metadata remains intact.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Google Takeout to Export and Preserve Metadata

Google Takeout is the safest, official method to export your photos in bulk while retaining crucial EXIF data such as original capture dates.

Downloading your photos directly from the Google Photos web interface can sometimes alter file dates. Google Takeout packages your media into ZIP files, preserving the original file metadata so that OneDrive can accurately read the 'Date taken' property upon upload.

Access Google Takeout

Navigate to the Google Takeout webpage and log into your Google account.

Select Google Photos

Click 'Deselect all', then scroll down and check the box next to 'Google Photos'. Proceed to the next step.

Export and Download

Choose 'Export once', select your preferred file type (ZIP) and size, and click 'Create export'. Once processed, download the archives to your computer.

Extract and Verify

Extract the ZIP files on your local drive. Right-click a few images, select 'Properties', go to the 'Details' tab, and confirm the 'Date taken' matches the original capture date.

Upload to OneDrive

Open your OneDrive folder or the web interface and drag the extracted photos into your desired directory. The original dates will be maintained.

Use Google Takeout to Export and Preserve Metadata

Metadata Maintained: By using the Takeout method and a direct local upload, OneDrive relies on the EXIF data embedded in the images rather than the file creation date.

Solution 2

Utilize Reputable Cloud Migration Tools

Use verified third-party cloud transfer services that specialize in maintaining file metadata across platforms.

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Manage Your Cloud Documents Easily with WPS Office

While you are organizing your cloud storage and transferring files, consider using WPS Office for your document needs. It offers seamless compatibility with Microsoft Office formats, integrated cloud file management, and a lightweight, familiar interface.

1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the official website and run the quick installation.
2. Connect Cloud Storage: Open WPS Office and link your preferred cloud drives to easily access your migrated documents.
3. Start Creating: Open, edit, and save DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX files seamlessly within the application.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Lightweight footprint that won't slow down your systemBuilt-in PDF toolkit for viewing, editing, and converting filesSeamlessly integrates with cloud storage for easy file access across devices

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive organize my transferred photos by today's date?

OneDrive sometimes bases its file arrangement on the upload or synchronization time if it fails to read the photo's original EXIF metadata. Always ensure the 'Date taken' EXIF property is intact before uploading.

What are the JSON files downloaded from Google Takeout?

Google Takeout often provides JSON files alongside your photos. These contain extra metadata, such as location edits or date modifications made directly within the Google Photos app, but the core capture date usually remains embedded in the original image file.

Is it safe to use third-party cloud migration tools?

While many professional migration services are highly reputable, you should carefully research any provider before granting access to your accounts. Avoid non-Microsoft websites that prompt you to install unwanted software or display suspicious advertisements.

Migration & Recovery