April 11, 2024 - A picture can really be worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to the photos you choose to upload on your Google Business Profile (GBP).
Well, at least according to the search engine, businesses that add photos to their GBPs receive 42 percent more requests for directions on Google Maps and 35 percent more clicks through to their websites than businesses that don’t.
Although images don’t directly influence your ranking, they indirectly impact it. By adding more photos, you boost engagement opportunities – meaning, the more individuals interact with your images, the more Google perceives your listing as valuable.
However, this doesn’t imply that just any photo will do. Discover these best practices for photo uploads to your Google Business Profile:
Familiarize Yourself with Google’s Guidelines
In an ever-evolving digital landscape, staying updated with Google’s latest photo upload requirements and recommendations is crucial. Google specifically recommends adding images in certain categories to better depict your business. Some key areas you can focus on include:
Exterior photos: Help customers recognize your business from the street.
Interior photos: Show off the ambiance and environment of your establishment.
Product photos: Highlight what you sell in detail.
Team photos: Introduce potential customers to your staff, making your business more relatable.
Event photos: If your business hosts or participates in events, share these moments to show community involvement.
Use High-Quality Images
The quality of your images reflects the quality of your business. High-resolution, clear photos show professionalism and attention to detail — traits customers value in any industry. These images can be more engaging and encourage potential customers to learn more about your products or services. While modern smartphones can capture decent photos, investing in a quality camera or occasionally hiring a professional photographer can significantly enhance the representation of your business.
Avoid Stock Images
Though stock images may appear polished, they often lack the authenticity and personal touch organic photos of your actual business can provide. Customers want to see the real deal, including your team, your products and your services. Genuine photos foster trust with potential customers by offering an authentic peek into what they can anticipate.
Follow a Consistent Posting Schedule
Regularly updating your photos keeps your Google Business Profile fresh and engaging. Plan a consistent schedule for uploading new images to reflect any changes or updates in your business, like seasonal decorations, new products or special events. This not only helps with engagement but also signals to Google that your business is active, which can improve your search ranking.
Ensure Images Are Free Use
Avoid using photos that might infringe on copyright materials without authorization (brand-name products, sports franchises, movies, shows, etc.), even if you capture them yourself. Besides potential legal repercussions, Google might flag and suspend your account for such violations. If you’re not sure if you may be in danger of copyright infringement, it’s just better to find a different image to go with.
Leverage Customer Photos
Encourage your customers to upload their own photos of your business. User-generated content can significantly enhance your business profile’s authenticity and trustworthiness. Remember, these types of images offer prospective customers unbiased insights into what to expect and can amplify engagement on your profile, as customers are more inclined to share their experiences with their network.
Ready to Level Up Your Organic Presence?
Choosing the right photos for your Google Business Profile is just one piece of the puzzle for organic growth. Thankfully, having a fruitful partner like Melon Local in your corner can help you reach new digital heights! From comprehensive organic search optimization and paid search strategies to custom-tailored social media, schedule a demo today to learn more about how we can grow together!