Geo Tagging Tips for Google My Business

Geo tags are metadata embedded within a photo’s EXIF file that include latitude, longitude, and other GPS coordinates showing where the image was captured. This data can be helpful for internal cataloging or website image SEO, but when it comes to Google My Business (GMB), the impact is limited.

While many believe adding geo tags to photos can enhance Google Maps optimization or local search rankings, the truth is, Google strips this location data upon upload, making geo tagging ineffective for directly improving your GMB profile performance. This has been confirmed directly in Google’s Business Profile Help forum, where it’s clarified that EXIF metadata is not used in ranking algorithms.

If you’re looking to generate leads from Google, it’s far more effective to optimize your GMB through complete business information, consistent activity, and targeted local SEO. For service-based businesses like remodelers or contractors, this kind of strategic effort often starts with a smart SEO foundation.

Why the Myth of Geo Tagging Still Persists

This misconception persists due to outdated SEO advice and overhyped software tools. Apps like GeoImgr and GeoSetter allow users to embed location metadata into photos, creating the illusion that geo-tagging helps GMB profiles rank higher in “near me” searches. But this has been debunked by Search Engine Land, which reports no measurable correlation between geotagged images and improved rankings.

Instead of chasing ineffective tactics, business owners should focus on high-impact optimization strategies like:

• Maintaining consistent NAP details (Name, Address, Phone)
• Using local keyword strategies across your listings and website
• Publishing location-based content, such as blog posts or service area pages — if you’re not sure how to start, our guide on building local SEO outside your core location can help

For contractors running ads, it’s also essential to understand how tools like location assets in Google Ads can improve local visibility — more than geo-tagging ever could.

What Geo Tagging Is Good For

While geo tagging doesn’t impact your Google My Business rankings directly, it can still support your broader local SEO strategy—especially when used on your website. Embedding geo-tagged images into service pages, blog posts, or case studies helps reinforce your connection to specific locations, which can subtly boost relevance in search.

When paired with optimized file names, alt text, and local content, these images improve your visibility in visual search and build trust with search engines. For best results, follow Google’s image SEO guidelines and this Moz guide to alt text. And if you’re ready to turn optimized visuals into actual leads, our web design services for contractors are built to convert.

Effective Strategies Beyond Geo Tagging

Since adding geo tags to Google My Business photos doesn’t improve rankings, business Since geo tagging photos doesn’t influence your Google My Business rankings, business owners should focus on what truly matters to Google’s local algorithm. Google prioritizes relevance, distance, and prominence — not EXIF data. To perform well in local SEO, your GMB profile must be complete, active, and aligned with your core offerings.

According to Google’s own local ranking factors guide, profiles that are accurate, regularly updated, and rich with customer engagement tend to perform better. That’s why the following strategies are essential for anyone serious about growing their local visibility.

Ensure Your Business Information Is 100% Complete

Google rewards businesses with fully completed and consistent information. Make sure your:

• Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) match across your website and directories
  
• Business categories and services are accurate and descriptive
  
• Hours, service areas, and special attributes (like accessibility or service types) are up to date

A well-structured listing doesn’t just improve rankings — it builds trust with customers. For contractors, home service pros, and remodelers, SEO for general contractors is a smart place to begin building authority.

Upload High-Quality, Optimized Photos Regularly

Rather than relying on geo tagging, focus on the photo elements that Google’s algorithm actually reads and values. According to Google’s image best practices, this includes:

• Descriptive file names (e.g., houston-hvac-installation.jpg)
  
• High resolution with fast-loading formats (WebP, JPEG)
  
• Content relevance — images of your team, projects, and location signage

Google uses AI to recognize photo content, which helps associate your business with your services and region. If you’re a builder, contractor, or trade professional, our web design services ensure your images are optimized for both conversions and search visibility.

You can still use tools like GeoImgr to geo-tag images for your website (not GMB), which can help reinforce location context on portfolio and service pages.

Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews

Google reviews remain one of the most important local ranking factors today. Businesses with frequent, high-quality, and keyword-relevant reviews have a competitive edge. Here’s how to harness their power:

• Request reviews immediately after a job or service
  
• Use review response templates that reference service type and location
  
• Monitor and respond to all reviews — especially negative ones, professionally

Review responses are visible to both customers and Google. If you’re unsure how reviews compare across platforms, check out our breakdown of Google Ads vs. Instagram for leads.

How 7ten Marketing Helps You Win at Local SEO

At 7ten Marketing, we treat your Google Business Profile as more than just a listing — it’s a local lead engine. Our team audits your profile to identify gaps, optimize content, and align your listing with the latest best practices, from service categories to local keywords. We also enhance your visual presence with optimized photo strategies and ensure your business appears in front of the right audience with geo-targeted tactics, structured data, and smart content updates.

But we don’t stop there. We help you build trust and engagement through customized review generation campaigns, and we connect your GMB strategy with your broader local SEO and web design efforts. Whether you’re looking to improve visibility, increase conversions, or take control of your digital presence, we provide hands-on support and performance reporting every step of the way. Ready to grow? Contact us and let’s get your GMB working for you.

How Can 7ten Marketing Help Improve My Local SEO and GMB Strategy?

At 7ten Marketing, we help contractors, builders, designers, and service pros optimize, automate, and scale their local marketing efforts. Our solutions are tailored to your trade and your market — from full-service SEO for contractors to integrated ad strategies that drive real leads.

We audit your Google Business Profile, fine-tune content and images, and manage everything from local listings to Google and Instagram ads. With performance-focused reporting and strategies built around what actually works, we take the guesswork out of local growth. Ready to stand out? Start a conversation or explore our blog for expert tips and insights.