FDM STUDIO CO.

For businesses in South Africa and around the world, Google My Business (GMB) is a critical tool for local visibility. When potential customers search for products or services, your GMB profile often forms their first impression. While text information like addresses, contact details, and business hours is essential, visual assets, photos, videos, and graphics, play a key role in attracting attention, building trust, and encouraging engagement.

Why Visual Assets Matter on Google My Business

Visual assets influence how your business is perceived online:

• Increase Engagement: Profiles with photos receive significantly more clicks, calls, and direction requests.
• Build Trust: High-quality images and videos showcase professionalism and authenticity.
• Enhance Brand Identity: Consistent visuals reflect your style, values, and offerings.
• Improve Local SEO: GMB listings with rich media are favored in search results and Google Maps.

Types of Google My Business Visual Assets

1. Profile and Cover Photos

• Profile Photo: Represents your business on search results and maps. Use a clear logo or brand image.
• Cover Photo: Displayed prominently on your GMB listing. Highlight your location, team, or flagship product/service.

2. Interior and Exterior Photos

• Showcase the look and feel of your business location.
• Helps customers understand your environment and builds confidence in visiting.

3. Product and Service Photos

• Include high-quality images of products, menus, or services.
• Ensure accurate representation of what customers can expect.

4. Event or Promotional Photos

• Share visuals from special events, campaigns, or seasonal offers.
• Engages local audiences and demonstrates active community involvement.

5. Videos

• Short videos (up to 30 seconds recommended) can show product demos, business tours, or customer experiences.
• Videos increase engagement and dwell time on your GMB profile.

6. 360° Virtual Tours

• Ideal for hospitality, retail, or service-based businesses.
• Allows customers to explore your premises virtually, enhancing trust and interest.

Best Practices for GMB Visual Assets

1. High Quality: Use sharp, well-lit images with correct color balance. Avoid blurry or pixelated visuals.
2. Consistent Branding: Incorporate brand colors, logo placement, and visual style where appropriate.
3. Accurate Representation: Ensure photos reflect current offerings, premises, and products.
4. Regular Updates: Keep visuals fresh to show activity and relevancy.
5. Optimize Image Sizes: Recommended dimensions for GMB photos:
   • Profile Photo: 250 x 250 pixels minimum
   • Cover Photo: 1080 x 608 pixels
   • Other Photos: 720 x 720 pixels minimum
6. Include Descriptive Captions: Brief captions improve search relevance and context for customers.

Benefits for South African Businesses

• Local Visibility: Stand out in Google Maps and local search results.
• Customer Confidence: Photos and videos reduce uncertainty for first-time visitors.
• Marketing Integration: Visual assets can be repurposed across social media, websites, and promotional materials.
• Community Engagement: Sharing event or promotional photos fosters a connection with the local audience.

Conclusion

Google My Business visual assets are more than decorative elements—they are strategic tools that enhance visibility, engagement, and trust. For businesses in South Africa, investing in high-quality photos, videos, and branded visuals can significantly improve local search performance, attract more customers, and strengthen your online reputation. By consistently managing and updating your GMB visual assets, you create a compelling, professional presence that encourages customers to visit, inquire, and engage with your brand.