How to Export Your Map as an Image

Published on January 15, 2025 • 4 min read

Sometimes you need a static map image instead of an interactive embed—for print materials, email newsletters, social media posts, or presentations. Our Export as Image feature makes this incredibly simple.

Quick Export Guide

Step 1: Navigate to Export Tab

Click on the "Export as Image" tab at the top of the Maps Generator tool. This dedicated section is designed specifically for creating downloadable map images.

Step 2: Enter Your Location

Type in the complete address where you want the pin to appear. Just like with embedding, more detail means better accuracy.

Step 3: Customize Your Image

Adjust these settings to create the perfect map image:

Width & Height: Match your design requirements (e.g., 800x600px for presentations, 1200x630px for social media)
Zoom Level: Get closer for street-level detail or zoom out for a broader view
Map Type: Choose Roadmap for clarity, Satellite for aerial views, or Hybrid for both

Step 4: Choose Your Format

Click either "Download PNG" or "Download JPG" depending on your needs:

PNG: Best for web use, transparent backgrounds possible, higher quality, larger file size
JPG: Better for email attachments, smaller file size, good for print materials

Your map image will download immediately to your computer.

When to Use Map Images vs. Embeds

Use Images When You Need:

Print Materials: Flyers, brochures, business cards, menus
Social Media: Instagram posts, Facebook images, Twitter cards
Email Newsletters: Static images load faster and work in all email clients
Presentations: PowerPoint, Keynote, or Google Slides
PDF Documents: Reports, guides, or downloadable resources

Use Embedded Maps When You Need:

Interactive Features: Users can zoom, pan, and get directions
Website Integration: Live, clickable maps on your site
Always Current: Map updates automatically with Google's data

Pro Tip: Use both! Add an embedded map to your contact page for interactivity, and use exported images in your social media and print materials for brand consistency.

Optimizing Your Map Images

For Social Media

Facebook/LinkedIn: 1200x630px works best for shared links

Instagram: 1080x1080px (square) or 1080x1350px (portrait)

Twitter: 1200x675px for summary cards

For Print

Use larger dimensions (1200px+ width) and save as PNG for best quality. Consider using 300 DPI for professional printing.

For Email

Keep it under 600px wide and use JPG to reduce file size. Most email clients resize larger images anyway.

Note: Google's Static Maps API has usage limits. For high-volume use, you may need to configure an API key. The tool works great for occasional exports and small business needs.

Creative Uses for Map Images

Event Invitations: Include a map image showing the venue location on digital or printed invitations.

Delivery Zones: Create a zoomed-out map showing your service area and share it on your website or social media.

Location Announcements: Opening a new location? Create a map image for your announcement post.

Email Signatures: Add a small map image to your email signature showing your office location.

Instagram Stories: Use map images in stories to promote events or share your business location.

Tips for Best Results

Test different zoom levels: Too close can be confusing, too far loses detail
Choose the right map type: Roadmap for urban areas, Satellite for scenic locations
Match your brand: Keep map styles consistent across all your materials
Add context: Pair your map image with address text and directions

Export Your Map Now