eBay Official Photo Requirements
eBay has specific image policies. Breaking them can get your listing suppressed or removed. Here is what eBay requires and recommends:
1600px+
enables the zoom feature. Buyers want to inspect stitching, fabric, and labels closely. Without zoom, conversions drop.
How Cassini Rewards Good Photos
eBay uses a search algorithm called Cassini. Unlike Google, Cassini is heavily focused on seller performance. But one metric matters more than most sellers realise: click-through rate (CTR).
Higher CTR = more visibility
If more people click your listing from search, Cassini shows it to even more people. Good photos drive CTR.
Low bounce = quality signal
When buyers click and stay (vs click and leave), Cassini reads this as a quality listing. More photos = more time on page.
Item specifics + photos
Cassini cross-references your item specifics with photos. Detailed listings with matching photos rank higher.
How to Shoot Different Items
Click an item type to see specific photography tips.
T-Shirts, Shirts, and Tops
Essential shots (minimum 6):
1. Front view (flat lay or on body)
2. Back view
3. Brand tag / label close-up
4. Size tag close-up
5. Fabric / material close-up
6. Any print, graphic, or logo detail
Pro Tip
For graphic tees, the print/graphic should be the hero shot. eBay buyers searching for specific graphics need to see it clearly from the thumbnail.
Jackets and Coats
Essential shots (minimum 8):
1. Front view, zipped/buttoned
2. Front view, open
3. Back view
4. Interior lining
5. Hardware (zips, buttons, snaps)
6. Brand label
7. Sleeve / cuff detail
8. Pockets
Pro Tip
Jackets are high-value items on eBay. Use all 24 slots if you can. Show every angle, every detail. The more photos, the higher the conversion rate for expensive items.
Jeans and Trousers
Essential shots (minimum 6):
1. Front view, full length
2. Back view, showing pockets
3. Waist and fly area
4. Brand patch / back label
5. Inner tag (style number, wash code)
6. Hem / leg opening
Pro Tip
For Levi jeans, photograph the red tab, back patch, and inner care label. Buyers verify authenticity from these details. Include the style number in your title.
Shoes and Trainers
Essential shots (minimum 8):
1. Side profile (both shoes)
2. Front view
3. Back / heel view
4. Sole / bottom
5. Interior label / size tag
6. Any logos or branding
7. Wear or damage on soles
8. Box (if available)
Pro Tip
Sole photos are critical for shoes. Buyers judge wear from the sole. A clean sole photo with good lighting can make or break a sale on high-value trainers.
Dresses and Skirts
Essential shots (minimum 6):
1. Full length front view
2. Full length back view
3. Brand and size tag
4. Fabric close-up
5. Detail shot (zip, buttons, lining)
6. On-body or styled shot
Pro Tip
Dresses sell much better with on-body photos because buyers need to see drape and fit. Use Vintefy to generate a try-on shot from a flat lay.
eBay vs Vinted vs Depop: Photo Specs
eBay
Vinted
Depop
eBay Listing Tips Beyond Photos
Fill out every item specific
eBay item specifics (brand, size, colour, material, style, etc.) are the most important thing after photos. Cassini uses them to match your listing to buyer searches. Listings with complete item specifics get up to 12% more views.
Use keyword-rich titles (80 characters max)
Include brand, item type, size, colour, material, and condition. Example: "Levi 501 Original Fit Jeans W32 L34 Dark Blue Denim Mens". Avoid fluff words like "amazing" or "must see".
Price competitively using sold listings
Always check "Sold items" in eBay search to see what similar items actually sold for. This is more reliable than current listings. Factor in the ~13% final value fee when setting your price.
Offer free returns for higher ranking
Listings with free returns get a ranking boost from Cassini. eBay wants buyer confidence. If your photos are accurate and you describe items honestly, return rates stay low (typically 2-5% for clothing).
Ship fast and offer free shipping if possible
Same-day or next-day handling improves your seller metrics, which directly influences Cassini ranking. Free shipping listings also get a small ranking boost and are eligible for the "Free shipping" filter buyers use.