Why I Love Helping Small Businesses Shine on Google Maps
I’ve been photographing businesses for Google Maps for over a decade now, and it’s something I’m incredibly passionate about. In fact, my personal business photos alone have garnered over 8 million views—proof of just how much a great image can resonate with people. There’s something truly special about capturing the essence of a business and knowing that the photos I take will help create that all-important first impression. I love giving customers and guests a glimpse of what they’re walking into before they even step through the door. Personally, I LOVE Google Maps and being able to scope out a place before I go in. Oftentimes, businesses lack proper photography for their profile and that’s where I come in.
The Power of a Picture on Google Maps
We’ve all been there—scrolling through Google Maps, trying to decide where to go next. Whether it’s a new restaurant, a cozy café, or a local shop, those photos play a huge role in helping us make up our minds. For small and local businesses, having amazing photography that accurately represents your space is crucial. It’s your chance to show off what makes your business unique and inviting.
When people search for a business, especially a local one, they’re not just looking for directions or contact info—they want to see where they’re going, get a feel for the atmosphere, and know what to expect. That’s why having high-quality, thoughtfully captured photos on your Google Business Profile is so important. It’s about more than just looking good; it’s about building trust and connection right from the start.
Capturing the Essence of Your Business
Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing countless small businesses, from restaurants to retail shops, and each one has its own story to tell. My goal is always the same: to capture the true spirit of the business, so when someone looks at those photos, they immediately understand what the place is all about. Whether it’s the warm glow of a family-owned diner or the sleek, modern lines of a boutique, I aim to reflect the heart of the business in every shot.
For small and local businesses, these photos aren’t just a nice addition—they’re a vital tool in drawing in customers. According to Google, businesses with photos get 40% more requests for directions. Think about that—40% more people are likely to visit your business simply because they liked what they saw in a photo. And with “near me” searches on the rise, having those great visuals is more important than ever.
Why Photography Matters for Your Google Business Profile
Adding photos to your Google Business Profile is one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance your online presence. Without them, your business might seem less appealing, less trustworthy, or even less real. But with the right photos, you can give potential customers a reason to choose you over the competition.
Photos instantly showcase your business’s personality, quality, and what makes it stand out. And they’re published instantly, so you can start attracting more attention right away. Plus, when done right, these photos can even boost your search rankings, making it easier for people to find you.
So if you’re a small business owner, especially a local one, don’t underestimate the power of a great photo. Let’s work together to capture the best of what your business has to offer and make sure those first impressions are nothing short of amazing.
Reach out if you have any questions or need help optimizing your own Google Business Profile. For more resources on Google Business Profiles and how to optimize them for your small business, check out the following:
Google My Business: The Business Profile Playbook -( https://backlinko.com/google-business-profile-guide )
About Google Business Profile - ( https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038063?hl=en-G&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop )
Why you need a Google My Business profile and what to include - (https://www.godaddy.com/resources/skills/google-my-business-profile-what-to-include )