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Why is google rejecting your photos on your business profile?

Jun Cho Jun Cho

If you’ve been trying to set up your Google Business Profile (GBP), you may feel frustrated with photo approvals. Here are some reasons why Google might not accept your images.

Common Reasons for Photo Rejections

  1. New Listings: If your listing is new (you created it within the last two weeks), you might not be able to upload photos yet.

  2. Duplicate or Copyrighted Images: Google has strict checks for originality. If you’re uploading images that are duplicates, have watermarks, or are copyrighted, they may be flagged. It’s best to wait at least two days before trying again.

  3. Patience Required: Sometimes, photos seem rejected, but they might actually be under review and could be published within 24-48 hours.

Other Issues to Consider

Quality is Key: All photos should be clear and sharp, not blurry or unclear. However, avoid using files that are too large.

AI Content Check: Google uses AI to check if your photos meet their standards. Make sure your images are appropriate and safe.

Steps to Get Your Photos Approved

Now that we know why photos might be rejected, here are some tips to help get your images approved:

  1. Wait After Verification: After your listing is verified, wait at least 14 days before uploading any photos.

  2. No Duplicates: Always use original images and avoid any images you’ve submitted before.

  3. Remove Watermarks: Don’t upload images that have watermarks or are copyrighted.

  4. Limit Text: Keep text on your images to less than 10% of the space, and if you add text, position it at the edges.

  5. Check Quality: Make sure your photos are high quality, properly lit, and not overly edited.

  6. Optimize Image Size: Your images should be under 1500 pixels on the longest side, ideally in JPG or PNG format, and smaller than 5 MB.

  7. Use Safe Search Test: Before you upload, use the Cloud Vision API’s “Safe Search” test to check if your images will pass the AI evaluation.

After about a week, my initially “rejected” photos were eventually accepted by google.

So don’t worry if you see it rejected, sometimes all you have to do is be patient.

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About Jun Cho

Founder of June Web Design LLC, specializing in modern Fullstack development and design.