I have noticed that a lot of guides that I see on my maps latest tab only take photos of food.
While photos and videos of the food are very important as the partner of a disabled person, I find it very helpful to see what the entrance and interior of the restaurants are like so I can see which entrance or path through the restaurant is best to take.
Just my thoughts and what I find helpful.
@richardoldroyd74 That’s a very interesting observation, and one which I’ve often commented on. I actually spent more time posting photos of the places that sell the food, than photos of the food itself.
The other thing is that some people perhaps don’t even think of themselves as Local Guides. They’re just persons who took some photos or videos when they visited a place and then Google prompted them to upload those Photos, give a Rating, or write a Review. Their restaurant meal pictures then appear on Maps, and we don’t ever see or hear them again.
You are correct in your observations as is @tony_b .
In addition to people who only post when prompted, many LG’s see themselves as “foodies” and take a lot of pride and joy in posting food photos/videos. I need to consider your point about helping making it easier to know about access. I do a lot of exterior only posts. In some cases I will step in and shoot some video of the interior. Since I’m not there as a customer I’m not comfortable taking lots of images and exploring the accessibility of the facility. On those occasions where I do dine in, I will consider adding notes about access if I write a review.
To be honest, I am a coffee, pastries, and ice-cream guy. I try to support local small businesses by making their food or drink as appealing as possible. The restaurant industry would be in serious trouble if they depended on me to go eat out. A meal out (vs my vices) is a treat and not a regular thing, so I usually do post about it.
Thank you for raising the issue and I know several guides really focus on providing accessibility photos and info.
I totally understand you point about food photographers @Rednewt74 and I’m sure some LGs do shoot access photo
My post was just my observation of my own feed.
Keep up the good work supporting local businesses…
You may like my posts on storefront photography: Why storefront photos are so important. Please find it here
Cheers
Morten
You have made a valid observation @richardoldroyd74
The main reason my profile has so many restaurant storefront photos is based on the same rationale. I had noticed that so many Local Guides were only sharing food or interior photos. I thought it made more sense to share exterior photos of the POI, making it easier to locate for a Maps navigation user.
With the recent push for video shares, it’s getting to the point that foodie photos are the overwhelming majority.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I try and get a photo and a video but it’s not always possible.