Local Guides Spotlight is a Connect series that celebrates members of our community who are making a positive impact.
Local Guide Penny Christie ( @PennyChristie ) loves to share her experiences in Sydney, Australia through beautiful photography, videos, and informative reviews on Google Maps. Penny hopes others who see them will feel more comfortable going to a place they’ve never been before.
“I get really anxious when I need to go somewhere new—even if that place is in my local neighborhood,” Penny told me. “Google Maps is a tool I use to alleviate the stress. I contribute on Google Maps on a regular basis in hopes that my reviews and photos will help people feel comfortable about going to new places.”
We recently caught up with Penny to learn more about her photography skills, experiences, and why she’s proud to be a member of this community. Check out what she had to say (and some of her great photos!) in the interview below.
When did you join Local Guides? What inspired you to sign up?
I joined Local Guides as soon as the program started, I think back in 2016 because the point system was very appealing. Getting points for something I enjoy doing is a lot of fun and made me want to keep leaving reviews. Leveling up is my favorite thing.
What advice do you have for people who hope to improve their photography skills?
I love taking photos! When taking photos make sure to use the natural light in the environment you are in. These days, most of us carry amazing cameras right in our pockets in our mobile phones, so we don’t need fancy cameras to take the perfect shot. When I’m taking photos for Google Maps, I quickly scope the place and take photos of the main points of interest and then I look for areas and hidden details some people might miss or not notice. My favorite thing to take photos of is the sunset. Those beautiful ever-changing colors make everything glow and look magical. It’s my favorite time of day.
Do you have any tips for others who are looking to share more helpful reviews?
When I’m writing a review, I try and add as much information from my own personal experience as possible. I think about how the place made me feel from the moment I arrived. I think about what the vibe and atmosphere was like. I try to include things like parking in the area or whether it is wheelchair or family friendly. I am always on the lookout for toilets as well, so I like to know whether a place has a toilet available or if there are any close by. Don’t use your reviews as a personal attack on the place or staff either. If you have a major issue, try contacting the business directly. And definitely no selfies; save those for social media.
What information do you wish more Local Guides included in their photos or reviews on Maps?
I wish Local Guides included more videos with their reviews. Videos give you a clear and precise indication of a place. They capture the atmosphere and vibe in real life with no editing. Videos also give you a better indication of the size and scale of a place.
What have you learned through your experience as a Local Guide?
Being a Local Guide has changed the way I look at the world around me. I am more aware and appreciative of my surroundings. I have learned that my photos make a difference to people all over the world and I don’t feel so alone anymore. There are people all over the world doing exactly what I do; helping people feel comfortable about navigating the world around them.
Do you have any tips for Local Guides who are new to the program?
My tip to Local Guides who are new to the program is to review everything from shops to restaurants, cafes, parks, beaches, bars, galleries, office buildings, grocery stores, monuments, hardware stores; literally everything. There is so much to review just in your own neighbourhood. You don’t need to travel very far to do lots of reviews. Take clear photos of the place you are reviewing from different points of view; inside and outside using natural light. Try and be as honest and detailed as possible with your reviews without being nasty. Also be on the lookout for new places opening up, or places that are not on the map yet, so you can add them. That’s always fun.
Why are you proud to be a Local Guide?
I am really proud of being a Local Guide because I feel like a secret superhero, helping people make decisions! Haha! I honestly hope my photos, videos, and reviews help people feel less afraid to step out into the world and exploring new places.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I am also a member of the One Accessibility Alliance. We are a small group of Local Guides, from different parts of the world, who write posts on the Local Guides forum about accessibility in our communities and around the world.
Keep up the great work!