eBay Gallery Image
Main listing images for eBay. The gallery image is the first thing buyers see in search results. Strict rules against text and borders apply.
The eBay Gallery Image is your single most important listing asset. It appears in search results, category pages, and at the top of your listing. With millions of competing listings, a high-quality gallery image can be the difference between a sale and being scrolled past. eBay has specific requirements and policies for images to ensure a consistent shopping experience and protect buyers from misleading representations.
Check Your Image
See if your photo meets the official ebay requirements.
Free Spec Validator
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Supports JPG, PNG
Technical Requirements
| Minimum Dimensions | 500 x 500 px |
|---|---|
| Recommended Size | 1600 x 1600 px |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1 (Square) |
| Max File Size | 12 MB |
| File Type | jpeg, png, tiff, bmp, gif |
| Background | Must be Pure White |
Visual Guidelines
Do's
- Use 1600 x 1600 pixels for optimal quality and zoom
- Use a solid white or very light neutral background
- Fill the frame with the item (item should cover 80-90% of image)
- Use bright, even lighting for clear visibility
- Show the entire product without cropping
- Use high-resolution images to enable zoom feature
- Include multiple angles (up to 24 images allowed)
Don'ts
- No text, borders, or marketing artwork overlaid on the image
- No watermarks, logos, or promotional graphics
- No "stock" or manufacturer photos for used items (must be actual item photo)
- No placeholder images or images with "sold separately" items
- Avoid cluttered backgrounds that distract from the product
- Don't use images smaller than 500px (disables zoom feature)
Best Practices
- 1Use 1600 x 1600px: This is the sweet spot. It enables eBay's zoom feature (critical for buyer confidence) while keeping file sizes manageable. Images under 500px disable zoom entirely.
- 2Fill 80-90% of the Frame: Your product should dominate the image. Too much empty white space makes the product look small and unappealing in search thumbnails.
- 3Pure White Background: Use RGB 255,255,255 white background. This looks professional and ensures your product pops in search results. Avoid off-white or gray backgrounds.
- 4Bright, Even Lighting: Professional studio lighting or natural light with diffusers eliminates harsh shadows and ensures accurate color representation. Dark or poorly lit images reduce buyer confidence.
- 5Show the Actual Item: For used items, photograph the exact item you're selling. For new items, avoid manufacturer stock photos when possible—original photos build trust.
- 6Multiple Angles: Use all 24 image slots if needed. Show front, back, sides, top, bottom, close-ups of details, and any flaws or wear (especially for used items).
- 7No Text or Graphics: Keep the main image completely clean. No 'Free Shipping' banners, no logos, no borders. Save promotional content for your item description.
Common Issues
Zoom feature not working
Your image is too small. Upload images at least 1600 x 1600 pixels to enable the zoom feature. The minimum is 500px, but that's too small for modern e-commerce standards.
Image was removed or listing suppressed
You likely violated eBay's image policy. Common issues: added text/logo, used a stock photo for a used item, or included accessories not actually being sold. Review eBay's Picture Policy and re-upload compliant images.
Image takes too long to load
Your file size is too large. Compress your JPEG to under 7MB. The 1600 x 1600px size is more than sufficient for excellent quality without bloated file sizes.
Product looks small in search results
Your product doesn't fill enough of the frame. Re-shoot or crop so the item covers 80-90% of the image area. Avoid excessive white space.
Colors don't look accurate
Poor lighting or incorrect white balance can distort colors. Use professional lighting or shoot in natural daylight. Avoid using filters that alter the product's true appearance.
Upload failed - file too large
eBay's maximum is 12MB per image. Compress your JPEG using image optimization software or resize to 1600 x 1600 pixels, which is more than adequate.
Related Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What's the minimum image size for eBay?
eBay requires images to be at least 500 pixels on the longest side. However, 1600 x 1600 pixels is recommended to enable the zoom feature, which significantly increases buyer confidence.
Q.Can I add text to my eBay main image?
No. eBay strictly prohibits text, artwork, borders, or marketing info on the main gallery image. It must be a clean photograph of the actual product. Save text and graphics for your item description.
Q.What's the maximum file size for eBay images?
eBay accepts images up to 12MB per photo. However, for best results, keep file sizes under 7MB to ensure fast loading and avoid upload issues.
Q.Does eBay require a white background?
While not absolutely mandatory, eBay strongly recommends solid white or very light neutral backgrounds for the main image. This ensures your product stands out and looks professional in search results.
Q.How many images can I upload to an eBay listing?
You can upload up to 24 images per listing at no additional cost. Use this to show multiple angles, details, and condition of your item.
Q.What image format should I use for eBay?
JPEG is the recommended format for eBay photos due to smaller file sizes and better compatibility. PNG is acceptable but may have larger file sizes. TIFF and BMP are supported but not recommended.
Q.Why is my image not showing the zoom feature?
The zoom feature requires images to be at least 1600 pixels on the longest side. If your image is smaller than this, buyers won't be able to zoom in to see details.