I think in your question, the answer is also contained. You can focus on the image of God. Or if you want you can meditate without aid of photo. You are free to choose. Based on your capacity you decide.

Each person eats accordance to their capacity. Likewise, there are many who meditate with focus on Swamiji’s photo and at the same time there are many who meditate with inner focus. Both are same. No difference.

(Q &A Trinidad 22nd July 2018)