The Impact of GBP Photos
Photos are one of the highest-impact elements of your Google Business Profile:
- 520% more calls: Businesses with 100+ photos vs. average
- 2x more website clicks: Photo-rich profiles drive more traffic
- 35% more direction requests: When customers can visualize your location
- First impression: Photos often appear before any text in search results
When customers search locally, they see your photos before your description, reviews, or anything else. Make those photos count.
Types of Photos to Add
Cover Photo
Your cover photo is prominently displayed. Choose an image that best represents your business—often your storefront, signature product, or a welcoming interior shot.
Logo
A clear, high-resolution version of your logo. This appears in various places and helps with brand recognition.
Exterior Photos
- Storefront from multiple angles
- Entrance and signage
- Parking area (if applicable)
- Different times of day (day and evening)
- Seasonal variations
Exterior photos help customers find you and recognize your location when they arrive.
Interior Photos
- Main customer areas
- Seating/waiting areas
- Service areas
- Ambiance and decor
- Special features
Interior photos set expectations and help customers feel comfortable before visiting.
Product Photos
- Best-selling products
- Menu items (for restaurants)
- Service results (before/after)
- Product variety
Team Photos
- Team group photos
- Staff at work
- Behind-the-scenes moments
- Friendly, professional headshots
People connect with people. Team photos humanize your business.
Action Shots
- Staff serving customers
- Work in progress
- Events or busy periods
- Customer interactions (with permission)
Technical Requirements
Size & Format
- Minimum: 720x720 pixels
- Recommended: 1080x1080 or larger
- Format: JPG or PNG
- File size: Between 10KB and 5MB
Quality Guidelines
- Well-lit (natural light preferred)
- In focus and sharp
- Properly exposed (not too dark or bright)
- High resolution for zooming
What to Avoid
- Stock photos (Google may remove them)
- Heavy filters or editing
- Text overlays or watermarks
- Blurry or low-quality images
- Inappropriate content
Photo Best Practices
Show Reality
Photos should accurately represent your business. Misleading photos lead to disappointed customers and negative reviews.
Highlight Your Strengths
What do customers love about you? If reviews praise your cozy atmosphere, show it. If they love your food presentation, photograph it beautifully.
Consider the Customer Journey
What would a new customer want to see?
- Exterior—to find you
- Interior—to know what to expect
- Products/Services—to see what you offer
- Team—to see who they'll meet
Geotagging
Photos with geographic metadata (taken at your location) may carry more weight. Use your phone's camera at your business location.
File Naming
While not confirmed as a ranking factor, descriptive file names (e.g., "italian-restaurant-pizza-chicago.jpg") are good practice.
Ongoing Photo Maintenance
Regular Additions
- Add new photos at least monthly
- Document seasonal changes
- Capture new products or services
- Share behind-the-scenes content
Seasonal Updates
- Holiday decorations
- Seasonal menu items
- Weather-appropriate exterior shots
- Seasonal promotions
Remove Outdated Photos
- Old staff who've left
- Discontinued products
- Previous decor after renovations
- Outdated exterior (after changes)
Monitor Customer Photos
Customers can upload photos too. Monitor these for quality and appropriateness. Report violating images; showcase great customer photos in your marketing.