Mastering the Art of Sharing: A Deep Dive into Posting Pictures on Google+ (Yes, It Still Exists!)

Ah, Google+. A name whispered in hushed tones, a platform once envisioned as the social behemoth that would dethrone Facebook. While it may not have conquered the social media landscape in the way Google intended, a dedicated community still thrives. And for those loyal users, sharing photos remains a key activity. So, let’s cut straight to the chase: how can you post pictures on Google+ in this modern era?

The straightforward answer is, you can’t directly. Google+ officially shut down for personal accounts in April 2019. However, Google+ lives on as Google Currents, a platform aimed at enterprise users within Google Workspace. If you’re a Google Workspace user, the steps are as follows:

1. Log into your Google Workspace account. This is crucial; your personal Google account won’t grant you access.
2. Navigate to Google Currents. You can find it within your Google Workspace apps.
3. Start a new post. Look for the “New Post” button, usually prominently displayed.
4. Click the photo icon. This will prompt you to upload images.
5. Select your desired photo(s). You can choose from your computer, Google Drive, or even paste an image URL.
6. Add a caption (optional but recommended). Give your photo context!
7. Choose your audience. Decide who within your organization can see the post.
8. Post! Hit that button and share your visual masterpiece.

It’s important to reiterate: this method only works if you’re using Google Currents through a Google Workspace account. If you were hoping to revive your old personal Google+ account, unfortunately, that ship has sailed. Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions to further clarify the situation and explore alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Google+ and Photo Sharing

Can I access my old Google+ photos?

Yes, but with a caveat. Before Google+ shut down, users were given the opportunity to download their content using Google Takeout. If you did this, your photos are safely stored on your computer or external drive. If you didn’t, there’s a chance some of your publicly shared photos might still be accessible through the Google Album Archive, although this isn’t guaranteed. Search the Album Archive using your Google account credentials.

What happened to all the pictures that were on Google+ when it shut down?

Google provided ample warning and tools for users to download their data before the shutdown. Photos that weren’t downloaded were, unfortunately, permanently deleted. Google took this action to protect user data and comply with privacy regulations.

Is there a Google+ app for Android or iOS?

No. The Google+ apps for Android and iOS were discontinued along with the personal version of the platform. Google Currents has a mobile app for Workspace users, but it’s distinct from the old Google+ app.

What’s the difference between Google+ and Google Currents?

Google+ was a social network intended for general audiences, attempting to compete with Facebook and Twitter. Google Currents is a communication and collaboration tool within Google Workspace, designed for internal company use. It focuses on facilitating discussions, sharing updates, and building community within an organization. Think of it as an enterprise social network.

If Google+ is gone, where can I share photos online now?

The internet is awash with photo-sharing platforms! The most popular choices include:

• Facebook: The reigning champion of social media, offering extensive photo-sharing features.
• Instagram: A visually focused platform, ideal for showcasing high-quality photos and videos.
• Flickr: A haven for photographers, offering powerful organization and sharing tools.
• Pinterest: A visual discovery engine, perfect for sharing inspiration and creating mood boards.
• Google Photos: While not a social network, it’s excellent for storing, organizing, and sharing photos with specific individuals.

The best choice depends on your specific needs and desired audience.

Can I use Google Photos to share photos publicly like I used to on Google+?

While Google Photos isn’t a direct replacement for Google+’s public sharing functionality, you can create shareable links to albums. This allows anyone with the link to view the photos in the album. However, it lacks the social interaction features of Google+, such as commenting and plus-oning (remember those?). Consider Google Photos as more of a photo hosting and sharing platform rather than a social network.

How do I create a shareable link in Google Photos?

It’s simple:

1. Open Google Photos and select the album you want to share.
2. Click the “Share” icon (usually a person icon with a plus sign).
3. Select “Create link.”
4. Copy the generated link and share it wherever you like.

You can also manage who has access to the link and revoke access at any time.

Is Google Currents a paid service?

Yes. Google Currents is part of the Google Workspace suite, which is a paid subscription service for businesses and organizations. It’s not available to personal Google accounts.

How do I delete photos from Google Photos?

1. Open Google Photos.
2. Select the photo(s) you want to delete.
3. Click the trash can icon.
4. Confirm the deletion.

Be careful! Deleting photos from Google Photos will also remove them from any albums they’re in.

Can I upload photos in bulk to Google Photos?

Absolutely! Google Photos supports bulk uploading. You can drag and drop multiple photos from your computer directly into the Google Photos interface, or use the “Upload” button to select multiple files. This makes organizing large photo collections much easier.

What file formats are supported by Google Photos?

Google Photos supports a wide range of image formats, including JPEG, PNG, GIF, WEBP, and even some RAW formats. This ensures compatibility with most cameras and devices.

Does Google Photos compress my photos?

By default, Google Photos offers a “Storage saver” option that compresses your photos to save storage space. However, if you want to preserve the original quality of your photos, you can choose the “Original quality” option. Keep in mind that this will consume more of your Google account storage quota.

The Final Shot: Embracing the Evolution of Photo Sharing

While the demise of the original Google+ might sting for long-time users, the digital landscape is ever-evolving. Google Currents offers a similar, albeit enterprise-focused, experience for Google Workspace users. And with a plethora of other photo-sharing platforms available, finding a new home for your visual creations is easier than ever. Remember to explore your options, prioritize your privacy settings, and most importantly, keep sharing those memories! The world always appreciates a good picture.