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Why Can’t We Choose Exactly Which Photos Show on Your Google Business Profile?
- PGW
- Sep 2
- 2 min read
One of the most common questions we get from our clients is:"Why have you chosen those photos to appear on my Google listing?"
The honest answer: we don’t get to choose them — Google does.
Who Decides Which Images Appear?
Google’s algorithm decides which images are shown in search results and on Google Maps. While we upload, update and recommend the best images for your business, Google ultimately decides what appears based on relevance and engagement.
How We Influence the Selection
Although no one can guarantee a specific photo will always be used, we take important steps to guide what Google selects.
1. We Set a Cover Photo
We always choose a preferred cover photo in your Google Business Profile. This tells Google, “This is the one that represents the business best.”While Google is not obliged to use it, a high-quality, relevant image has a much better chance of being shown.
2. We Upload High-Quality, Relevant Images
We regularly add images that genuinely reflect your business – shopfronts, interiors, products, services and even your team. Google prefers recent, high-resolution images, so we make sure everything meets their standards.
3. We Optimise Every Photo
Every photo we upload is:
In JPG or PNG format
Well-lit, focused, and properly sized
Aligned with Google’s technical guidelines for size and resolution
4. We Provide a Variety of Content
A strong profile tells a story. We include:
Exterior and interior photos
Key product or service shots
Team images when relevant
5. We Keep It Fresh
Google favours recent content. We keep your profile up to date with regular uploads to ensure your listing always looks active.
6. We Monitor What Google Displays
We review your listing regularly. If certain photos do not reflect your brand or become outdated, we refresh the gallery.
Why We Can’t Fully Control It
Google wants users to see the most authentic and engaging view of your business. Their algorithm considers:
Photo quality and relevance
How users engage with images
Customer-uploaded photos – which can also appear even if we didn’t add them
So while we guide, upload and optimise your photos, Google has the final say.
Before and After – The Difference Our Management Makes
To help clients visualise the impact, we often show a simple comparison:
Before: Random, outdated or low-quality photos appear first – sometimes even user-uploaded ones that don’t represent your brand.
After: Fresh, optimised images with a selected cover photo help your business look professional, trustworthy and current.
Want Your Google Business Profile to Look Its Best?
We specialise in making sure your Google Business Profile represents your business accurately and professionally. From regular updates to carefully managed photo uploads, we handle it all.
Let us help you make a strong first impression online.Contact us today to get started.
Paul G-Wood
+44 752 500 6255
DIGITAL MARKETING & GRAPHIC DESIGN
Creating & Delivering...Websites, Graphic Designs, Print, Motion Graphics, Animations, Videos, & SEO/AEO Google Ranking Results
Ai & AEO Management & Consultancy Services
Certified Digital Marketing Specialist
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