Google introduced Google Places last week as part of its ongoing focus on local search. One of the features is free interior photography.

You can either get mad about this or look at it as an opportunity.

This development allows Google to step inside local retailers and offer a visual reference of that business for search customers. An exterior photograph is good for directions.  But, as most people know, judging a book by its cover can be misleading.  So, Google is taking the next step.

Of course, Google has no right to enter a business and take photographs for their search pages.  To achieve its goal, Google needed an incentive plan.  It turns out that offering a free photograph to illustrate how great a business is and including it within a Google search business page is the perfect incentive.

Yes, they do have plans to use the images in other applications, too.

I’m not recommending that photographers knock on Google’s door looking for work. I don’t think it would be very rewarding or profitable.  Still, Google has opened its doors to a great opportunity. What they have done is create a chance to increase the value of interior photography.  Photographers specializing in interiors have an opening to sell the fact that their clients’ images can now be displayed for search prospects. Businesses can allow Google to take the photograph, upload their own snapshot or hire a professional if they wish to upgrade their business page interior display.

This is all about supply and demand. The need or demand for interior photographs should increase.  Not every retailer will understand the benefit. But, if even a percentage of businesses see the value of standing out from their competition in the online search space, interior photographers have a chance to add to their bottom lines.

My plan is to show my interior portfolio to businesses and explain this new opportunity.  I will also inform my prospects that these photographs will represent their business to the world. They have a choice: let Google provide a free picture, shoot it themselves or hire a professional. I will mention this as they scroll through my iPad portfolio (coming soon). I will also direct them to Google Maps, so they can evaluate Google’s last photography project related to their business.

The reality is the Google photographs will most likely be very poor quality. Your great photographs present an opportunity to both you and your clients. If they hire you, it will help them stand out from their competitors who chose the free route.

Local search will inevitably develop and mature, demanding higher quality images. Soon, smart phones and portable tablets will outpace traditional computers as search devices.

When devices offer the ability to display images beautifully, people will demand more beautiful images.

For more information on Google Places click here: