Google Business Profile
Why are my Google Business Profile photos stuck on pending?
Google marks a photo "pending" while it is still uploading or processing, or when your profile is not verified yet.
Tell us about your business and what you need.
The short answer
In short.
Pending photos do not show to customers. If your profile is unverified, verify it first. If it is verified, give it time, then check the photo meets Google's quality rules: in focus, well lit, and not heavily filtered or edited. A photo that breaks the rules is marked "not approved" instead.
What each status means
Google lists three statuses for uploaded media. Pending means it is being uploaded or processed, or the profile is not verified. Not approved means it was flagged for breaking policy. Live means customers can see it.
Cause 1: the profile is not verified
Photos only show after verification. If your profile is still being verified, every photo will sit as pending.
Cause 2: it is still processing
Some uploads take a while. Leave it before uploading again, because uploading the same image twice can be treated as a duplicate.
Cause 3: the photo itself
Google asks that photos represent reality: in focus, well lit, without significant alterations or heavy filters. Stock images, screenshots and photos with large text overlays are common reasons for problems.
What makes a good profile photo
Photos of your actual premises, your team and your real work. An exterior photo helps customers recognise the business when they arrive. Photos taken on the job, at the job, are the most useful.
If photos keep failing
Check whether the profile itself has a problem, such as a pending edit or a suspension, before uploading more.
From clients
What clients say about working with spareday
“Excellent in all facets of web design with particular expertise in SEO and email marketing. Online visibility has skyrocketed since working Reece which translates as flawless customer relations, new leads and new customers.”
“Huge shoutout to Reece for building my website for Hughesys Painting Services. Since it went live my phone hasn’t stopped ringing.”
“He was able to take our rough ideas, from concept through to reality. The site has provided an influx of new members, helping to keep our club viable.”
Official guidance
For independent guidance, see Google Business Profile Help.
Common questions
Questions people ask.
How long do photos stay pending?
Google does not give a set time. If your profile is verified and photos stay pending for a long time, check the profile's status before uploading more.
Can stock photos go on my profile?
Google asks that photos represent reality. Photos of your own premises, team and work are the safest and the most useful.
Who you’ll work with
Hi, I’m Reece.
spareday is my business, based here in Newcastle. You’ll deal with me from the first review of your website, and I’m the person you talk to each month about what’s working.
Find us
spareday in Newcastle.
12 Grey Street, Wickham, Newcastle NSW 2293.
Next step
Get a free growth plan.
Our Google Business Profile optimisation in Newcastle includes adding your supplied photographs to the profile and checking the listing's status first. Get my free growth plan if your profile has stalled.
Or call 0485 017 387.