Google Business Profile

How to Add Photos, Videos, and a Cover Photo to Your Google Business Profile

Add photos, videos, and a cover photo to your Google Business Profile on a computer or in the Google Maps app, with Google's size rules and photo ideas.

Last reviewed October 20, 2026 · 5 min read

On this page
  1. What photos should I add?
  2. How to add photos and videos
  3. How to set or change your cover photo
  4. How to remove a photo
  5. What do the photo statuses mean?
  6. Common mistakes

Photos show people what to expect before they visit or call. Google says an outside photo helps customers recognize your place when they arrive.

What you'll need

  • Clear photos as JPG or PNG files, 10 KB to 5 MB each

  • Short videos, up to 30 seconds, if you want them

  • A verified Business Profile

  • The Google Account that manages your profile

What photos should I add?

Photo ideas from Google: exterior from each direction, interior, products or food, team at work, and team photos, at least three of each type that fits. What to photograph. Diagram: Sac Business Launch.

Photo ideas from Google: exterior from each direction, interior, products or food, team at work, and team photos, at least three of each type that fits. What to photograph. Diagram: Sac Business Launch.

Google suggests at least three photos of each type that fits your business. A mobile service business might skip interior photos and add more "at work" shots instead.

Photo and video limits: JPG or PNG 10 KB to 5 MB, 720 by 720 pixels recommended, 250 minimum, video up to 30 seconds and 75 MB at 720p or higher, no heavy filters, 24 to 48 hours to show. Google's file rules. Diagram: Sac Business Launch.

Photo and video limits: JPG or PNG 10 KB to 5 MB, 720 by 720 pixels recommended, 250 minimum, video up to 30 seconds and 75 MB at 720p or higher, no heavy filters, 24 to 48 hours to show. Google's file rules. Diagram: Sac Business Launch.

How to add photos and videos

On a computer:

  1. Open Google Search or Google Maps and search your business name and city.

  2. Click Photos, then Add photos.

  3. Pick one or more photos or videos.

In the Google Maps app (Android, iPhone, or iPad):

  1. Tap Business at the bottom right.

  2. Tap More, then Add photo.

  3. Pick your photos or videos and tap Done.

  4. Tap Post (Android) or Publish (iPhone and iPad).

How to set or change your cover photo

On a computer: search your business name and city, click Photos, then Add a cover photo or Change cover, and pick a photo.

In the Google Maps app: tap Business, then More, then Cover photo. Pick a photo, then tap Post or Publish.

Pick a wide, bright photo of your storefront or your best work. Want to add your brand mark too? See How to add your logo.

How to remove a photo

On a computer: search your business, click Photos, open the photo, click Delete, then Delete again to confirm.

In the Google Maps app: tap Business, then See Business Profile Photos. Open the photo and tap Delete (on iPhone, tap More, then Delete this photo). Confirm.

What do the photo statuses mean?

StatusPending

What it meansStill uploading or processing, or your profile is not verified yet. Customers cannot see it.

StatusNot approved

What it meansFlagged under Google's policy. Customers cannot see it.

StatusLive

What it meansCustomers can see it on Search and Maps.

Common mistakes

  • Uploading the same photo twice. Google may not show duplicates.

  • Adding phone numbers or sale banners on photos. Keep photos real.

  • Only posting a logo. Add real photos of your place, products, and team.

  • Never updating. Add new photos when you remodel, add a service, or change your menu.

Do your website photos match your Google ones? Our Free Website Check can tell you how your site looks to new visitors.

Google changes Business Profile screens often. We checked these steps in October 2026. If a button looks different, the Google help pages below have the latest.

Questions people ask

How long until my photos show?

Google says it can take 24 to 48 hours. Photos only show after your profile is verified.

I picked a cover photo but Google shows a different one first. Why?

Google says setting a cover photo does not guarantee it shows first. If the photo is low quality or other sources suggest a better one, Google may pick a customer photo instead.

Can I remove a photo a customer posted?

You cannot delete it yourself, but you can report it if it breaks Google's policies. On a computer, go to Photos, then View all photos, open it, and select Report a problem. Google says review can take several business days.

How long can a video be?

Google says up to 30 seconds, up to 75 MB, and 720p or higher.

We will look at the site you already have and email what to fix first.

Get a free website check

Sources

  1. Manage your Business Profile photos & videos - Google Business Profile Help · support.google.com
  2. Tips for business-specific photos on your Business Profile - Google Business Profile Help · support.google.com
  3. Business Profile photos, videos & posts content policy - Google Business Profile Help · support.google.com
  4. Report inappropriate photos or videos on your Business Profile - Google Business Profile Help · support.google.com

This is general information for Sacramento and Northern California businesses. We are not attorneys or tax advisors, and this is not legal or tax advice. Check the official sources, and a local pro, before you act.

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