Google Map Custom Marker Maker

Custom marker make-up

This custom marker for Google Maps consists of 6 separate images and an image map area defined by an array of x,y pixel coordinates used for capturing image clicks in non IE browsers. The properties of each image are listed below.

The images
	image	The main foreground image. 24-bit PNG image with alpha transparency
	shadow	The shadow image. 24-bit PNG image with alpha transparency.
	printImage	An alternate foreground icon image used for printing on browsers incapable of handling the main foreground image. Versions of IE typically require an alternative image in these cases as they cannot print the icons as transparent PNGs. Note that browsers capable of printing the main foreground image ignore this property. Transparent GIF
	mozPrintImage	An alternate non-transparent icon image used for printing on browsers incapable of handling either transparent PNGs or transparent GIFs. Older versions of Firefox/Mozilla typically require non-transparent images for printing. Note that browsers capable of printing the main foreground image will ignore this property. Non transparent GIF with a light grey background.
	printShadow	A shadow image used for printed maps. This is a GIF image since most browsers cannot print PNG images. Transparent GIF with a chequered pattern of grey pixels for the shadow area .
	transparent	A virtually transparent version of the foreground icon image used to capture click events in Internet Explorer. This image is a 24-bit PNG version of the main foreground image with 1% opacity, but of the same shape and size.
The image map
	imageMap	This orange overlay visually represents the image map area as defined by an array of x,y pixel coordinates. Used for capturing image clicks in non IE browsers.

Create your own custom marker

To create your own custom marker, simply upload an image. A zip file containing the 6 separate images and some sample code (including the image map area coordinates) is created and made available for download.

Some further reading

Google Maps API Reference Documentation

Mike Williams' Google Maps API Tutorial