Did you know? Local businesses with photos on their Google Business Profile (GBP) see 42% more direction requests and 35% more website clicks. Plus, 60% of consumers are more likely to choose businesses with quality images.
Here’s how to make your GBP visuals work for you:
Why it matters: Visuals help your business stand out in search results, improve customer trust, and drive foot traffic. Regular updates signal to Google that your profile is active, boosting visibility.
To maximize impact, focus on clear, well-lit, and authentic visuals. Update regularly and align with Google’s guidelines to keep your content live and effective.
Getting your Google Business Profile approved starts with meeting Google's technical and content standards. Every upload is reviewed by Google's automated systems, so adhering to these specifications is crucial to keep your photos and videos live.
Google has specific technical requirements for visual content. If your photos or videos don’t meet these standards, they won’t appear on your profile.
Photo Requirements:
Video Requirements:
| Media Type | Format | File Size | Resolution | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photos | JPG or PNG | 10 KB - 5 MB | Recommended: 720 x 720 px; Minimum: 250 x 250 px | N/A |
| Videos | N/A | Up to 75 MB | 720p or higher | Up to 30 seconds |
Beyond technical specifications, your visuals must follow Google's content policies to ensure they accurately represent your business.
Key Content Guidelines:
Google may remove content if it doesn’t align with your business. For instance, using a generic sunset photo for a restaurant's profile is unacceptable unless the image clearly includes the restaurant itself.
The goal is authenticity - your visuals should mirror what customers can expect when they visit. Overly edited or filtered content that distorts reality risks removal under Google's guidelines.
Videos must also reflect your actual business environment. This means showing your location, team, or operations in a way that’s true to your brand [7].
Once your visuals meet these requirements, Google reviews them to determine their eligibility. After uploading, your content’s status will be marked as Pending, Not Approved, or Live [11][5]. Reviews typically take 24–48 hours, although delays can occur due to temporary system issues [10].
If your content is rejected, carefully review it against Google's guidelines before resubmitting. If you believe your content complies but it’s still rejected, you can request a manual review using Google's image appeal form. Additionally, make sure your Business Profile is verified and in good standing. Suspended or unverified profiles are more prone to rejections [10].
Google frequently updates its policies, so it’s a good idea to regularly check the Business Profile Photos & Videos Policy and Posts Content Policy for any changes.
Great photos can have a huge impact on how customers view your business. According to Google, businesses that include photos in their Business Profiles see 42% more requests for directions on Google Maps and 35% more website clicks compared to those without photos [3]. Even more striking, businesses with over 100 images on GBP get 2,717% more direction requests, 960% more search views, and 520% more calls [13].
To create effective GBP photos, focus on both technical quality and authenticity, following Google’s guidelines. Your photos should help customers make informed decisions about visiting your business.
"Your GBP photos (and videos) should be purposeful and utilitarian. When people do a search in Google and click on your Profile, they're trying to make a decision. They're looking to find out if you can solve their problem or meet their wants and needs."
– Marc Charette, Commercial Photographer and Local SEO Specialist [12]
Exterior shots are essential for helping customers identify and locate your business. Take photos from multiple angles, including clear views of signage and entrances, to make your location easy to recognize [4]. Highlight unique architectural features that stand out.
Interior photos should reflect what customers will experience when they walk in. Focus on showcasing the atmosphere and character of your space.
For example, in January 2025, Marc Charette of Work Pics 360 created a virtual tour for an Anytime Fitness Club that had recently moved locations. The tour included interactive areas of the gym with clickable hotspots providing more details, photos, videos, and links. These features acted as calls to action, helping visitors learn about the gym’s staff, services, and membership options (Source: whitespark.ca, 2025).
Posting new photos regularly signals to Google that your business is active and engaged. Aim to upload new images weekly or bi-weekly to keep your profile fresh [15]. Even small updates, like photos of new products or team members, can boost your visibility.
Seasonal updates are another great way to connect with customers. For instance, a bakery in New York added festive photos, holiday hours, and a pre-order link for their "Christmas Cookie Special", which led to a 40% increase in holiday sales compared to the previous year [14].
Similarly, a family-owned ice cream shop in Florida promoted their "Summer Sundae Special" with colorful photos and a "Buy One, Get One Free" Fourth of July offer. This campaign resulted in a 60% increase in foot traffic during July, with many customers mentioning the promotion in reviews [14].
The most engaging types of photos include products, team members, food (for restaurants), and interior/exterior shots [16]. Rotate through these categories to keep your content varied and interesting.
Finally, consider scheduling posts with photos to go live when your target audience is most likely to search [15]. This approach can amplify the impact of your updates, ensuring your GBP visuals not only meet technical standards but also drive meaningful engagement with potential customers.
Videos can transform your Google Business Profile (GBP) into an engaging, dynamic showcase for your business. Unlike photos, videos autoplay in the media carousel, immediately drawing attention [19]. And the data backs it up: 91% of marketers report increased traffic from video content, while 87% say videos help drive sales [18]. Building on the value of quality photos, videos take your profile a step further, making it more interactive and memorable.
Just like compelling photos, well-crafted videos can boost customer interaction and show that your business is active and approachable. To create effective GBP videos, focus on authenticity and follow Google's video guidelines [7]. These guidelines emphasize creating content that feels genuine and communicates clearly.
Capture real moments from your business - whether it’s your team at work or a glimpse into daily operations [7]. Prioritize good lighting (natural light works wonders) and clear audio to produce professional-looking content. Keep in mind that many viewers watch videos without sound, so ensure your message comes across visually [7]. Avoid over-editing; customers appreciate the natural, unpolished look [19].
"Customers are looking to understand what your business can do for them or how you can help them solve a problem... If your video is too detailed and complicated, viewers will click away and search for something simpler. So make sure your video is 'compelling, brief and focused on a specific message.'"
– Deborah Sweeney, CEO, MyCorporation.com [20]
Square videos with centered content are a smart choice since Google automatically crops videos for various display formats [19]. By focusing on simplicity and clarity, your videos can effectively connect with your audience.
Videos are a powerful way to highlight what makes your business stand out. Show your team in action, demonstrate your products, or walk viewers through your services. This humanizes your brand and builds trust [7][19]. For businesses with physical products, consider filming demonstrations - like how items are made, packaged, or used. Service-based businesses can showcase their processes or highlight results to help potential customers understand the value they offer.
Behind-the-scenes content is another great way to connect with viewers. Office tours, production processes, or employee interviews can offer an authentic glimpse into your business culture and operations [19].
Take inspiration from brands like Gymshark, which started by sharing simple workout videos filmed in a garage. These authentic clips, paired with active social media engagement, helped the brand grow into a billion-dollar company [Source: Bluehost, 2025]. Similarly, Blue Bottle Coffee uses short videos of latte art, barista tips, and customer interactions to drive engagement and boost in-store visits and online loyalty [Source: Bluehost, 2025].
Ace Hardware takes a practical approach with straightforward how-to videos, such as fixing leaky faucets or selecting the right paintbrush. These minimally edited clips solve everyday problems while subtly promoting their products [Source: Bluehost, 2025].
Promotional videos can also shine on your GBP. Use them to highlight special offers, launch new products, or showcase seasonal services that encourage immediate action [18].
Regularly uploading fresh videos signals to Google that your profile is active and relevant. This not only helps maintain your visibility in local search results but also keeps your business top-of-mind for potential customers [21].
Great visuals grab attention, but organized visuals keep customers engaged. By arranging your high-quality images and videos thoughtfully, you make it easier for potential customers to explore your business and find exactly what they’re looking for.
Google now offers updated photo categories like interior, exterior, team photos, and products. Use these categories to group similar images together, making navigation straightforward for your audience. For instance, upload several exterior shots of your storefront from different angles to help customers easily identify your location. Include product images that highlight your best offerings, and use interior photos to showcase areas like seating spaces, workstations, or unique design features that make your business stand out.
Take Sunrise Café as an example. This local café revamped its Google Business Profile by organizing its photos into distinct categories: storefront images from different perspectives and times of day, cozy interior shots emphasizing seating and décor, close-ups of popular menu items like coffee and pastries, candid staff photos, and pictures from special events like live music nights or community gatherings. The result? A 30% boost in foot traffic and higher engagement with their listing [23].
Adding concise captions and using Google’s predefined categories can further enhance the browsing experience. For businesses with multiple locations, clear categorization of visuals is even more critical to avoid confusion. Also, ensure that your cover photo, profile picture, and logo align with your brand identity and fit Google’s display guidelines. Once your visuals are organized, maintain a consistent brand aesthetic across all images.
Consistency is key when it comes to building trust and credibility. Your visual content should tell a unified story about your brand by sticking to a consistent style, tone, and quality. This means using similar lighting, color palettes, and composition across your photos and videos. If your brand has specific colors or fonts, incorporate them into any graphics or promotional materials.
Regular audits are essential to keep your profile looking fresh and relevant. A monthly review can help ensure all photos and videos are high-quality, up-to-date, and accurately represent your business. Remove outdated images that no longer reflect your current offerings or appearance.
Don’t overlook user-generated content during these audits. While customer-uploaded photos can add authenticity and social proof, it’s important to address any inappropriate or off-brand content that might harm your profile.
To boost local SEO, include relevant keywords in your image and video titles and descriptions. Captions or annotations can also provide extra context when needed.
Lastly, keep your visuals updated to reflect seasonal changes, special events, or new developments in your business. Regular updates not only keep your profile fresh but also signal to both Google and potential customers that your business is active and engaged.
Leveraging high-quality visuals is a game-changer for your Google Business Profile (GBP). While DIY methods can get you started, professional expertise takes your visuals - and your local search presence - to a whole new level. Investing in professional photography and videography not only enhances customer engagement but also drives measurable improvements across your digital marketing efforts.
The numbers speak for themselves: professional visuals can increase engagement by up to 352% and convert 108% more visitors compared to amateur photos [27]. Businesses that prioritize high-quality photography see up to a 35% boost in social media engagement, and service-based companies using professional images can charge 3-7% higher prices than those relying on amateur visuals [27].
"Professional photography dramatically increases engagement rates compared to amateur photos - by as much as 352% according to recent studies."
- Adam Miconi [27]
Professional visuals aren’t just for your GBP - they’re versatile assets for your entire marketing strategy. These polished images and videos can elevate your website, email campaigns, social media posts, and even paid ads [25]. Unlike smartphone captures, professional videographers deliver top-tier visuals and audio, ensuring your brand stands out [24]. They’re experts in lighting, composition, and angles, all of which are crucial for showcasing your business in its best light.
"Your photos represent your brand. Low quality, unprofessional photos on your website will communicate the same about your organization and the products and services you offer."
Visual content makes a massive impact. Pages with images get 94% more views, and video content leads to 95% better message retention [25]. With 60% of consumers favoring local search results that include attractive visuals and 78% of mobile searches resulting in offline purchases, professional imagery isn’t just an expense - it’s a strategic investment [2].
Navigating the world of professional visuals and GBP optimization can feel overwhelming, but that’s where Humble Help steps in. This service offers small businesses a streamlined solution that combines professional content creation with local SEO strategies. From tailored photography and videography to ongoing profile management, Humble Help ensures your GBP visuals are not only stunning but also strategically aligned with your marketing goals.
Their all-in-one business management platform blends AI capabilities with human expertise, making it easier for business owners to maintain professional-quality visuals without sacrificing valuable time. Personalized dashboards provide real-time insights into your profile’s performance and offer actionable recommendations based on the latest SEO trends.
Humble Help’s expertise extends far beyond GBP optimization. Their services include website design, PR strategies, and comprehensive local SEO, ensuring your professional visuals integrate seamlessly with your broader marketing efforts. For businesses just starting out, they even offer a Brand Boost Package at no cost - a starter kit that includes a website check-up, a fresh design layout, press features, and blog posts to complement your GBP strategy.
The financial benefits of professional support are clear. While professional GBP management typically costs between $345 and $395 per month [28], the investment pays off in improved local search rankings, more customer inquiries, and higher conversion rates. Considering that 90% of customers use the internet to find local businesses, and Google Maps profiles often reach a 13 to 15-mile radius, professional optimization becomes essential to staying competitive [28].
Humble Help also offers critical crisis management. If your GBP faces suspension or other issues, their experts ensure a quick resolution, minimizing disruptions to your business. This allows you to focus on what you do best - running your business - while they handle your digital presence.
Google Business Profile (GBP) visuals are powerful tools for increasing engagement and driving meaningful results. According to data, high-quality images can lead to a 42% increase in requests for directions and a 35% boost in website clicks. Additionally, visuals are processed by the brain 60,000 times faster than text and help improve information retention by up to 65% - making them an essential part of your marketing strategy [15][29][22][2]. It's also worth noting that 60% of consumers are more likely to trust local search results with strong visuals, and 75% of people prefer doing business with companies that present visually appealing content [2]. These numbers highlight just how important it is to optimize your GBP visuals.
Following the best practices outlined earlier - ranging from technical requirements to seasonal updates - can set your business up for success. Visual content marketing is a proven lead generator, delivering three times as many leads compared to traditional outbound methods. Plus, businesses that prioritize visual content are 63% more likely to see a positive return on investment [30].
Think of your GBP visuals as key marketing assets, not just an afterthought. Whether you’re snapping photos yourself or working with professionals like Humble Help, maintaining consistency and quality is non-negotiable. As Taya Foy from BizIQ’s Google Local Team puts it:
"Creating a Google Business Profile is a start, but maintaining it is the key. This includes updating and replacing photos with some frequency. Photos can include storefronts, products, and photos of employees." [22]
Adding high-quality photos and videos to your Google Business Profile (GBP) can do wonders for your business's visibility and customer engagement. Eye-catching visuals not only grab attention but also help build trust, making your business appear more professional and inviting. Did you know that profiles with photos tend to get significantly more direction requests and website clicks than those without?
On top of that, strong visual content can boost your local search rankings. This means your business is more likely to appear prominently when potential customers are searching for services nearby. Investing in well-crafted photos and videos is a straightforward yet impactful way to make your business stand out and attract more customers.
To make sure your photos and videos align with Google's standards for your Google Business Profile:
These simple recommendations can help your media look polished and grab more attention on your profile.
Keeping your Google Business Profile (GBP) current with fresh, high-quality photos and videos isn't just a nice touch - it’s a must for staying visible and appealing to potential customers. Regular updates signal to Google that your business is active, which can help improve your local search rankings and make you more discoverable on platforms like Google Maps.
Photos and videos also have a big impact on customer decisions. People are naturally drawn to businesses that showcase their products, services, and atmosphere with updated visuals. A well-maintained profile with engaging images can help you build trust, attract local customers, and boost your chances of turning viewers into paying customers. Refreshing your visuals regularly is a straightforward yet powerful way to stand out and grow your local presence.
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