eBay seller guide
How to photograph clothes for eBay
eBay gives you up to 24 photos per listing and reaches 190+ countries. But most sellers waste those slots with bad lighting and cluttered backgrounds. This guide covers what Cassini actually rewards and how to shoot clothes that sell.
On this page
- Photo slots per listing
- 24
- Countries reached
- 190+
- Recommended min width
- 1600px
- US final value fee, most clothing (UK private sellers: 0%)
- 13.6%
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:
Requirements and recommendations
- Minimum 500px on longest side (but 1600px+ is recommended for zoom)
- No watermarks, logos, or text overlays on photos
- No borders or frames around the image
- JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, BMP, or HEIC formats accepted
- White or neutral background recommended (not required but helps CTR)
- Up to 24 photos per listing (use at least 6 for clothing)
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
The essential shots for each garment type, in order, plus one tip that makes the difference.
T-shirts, shirts, and tops
Essential shots (minimum 6):
- Front view (flat lay or on body)
- Back view
- Brand tag / label close-up
- Size tag close-up
- Fabric / material close-up
- Any print, graphic, or logo detail
Jackets and coats
Essential shots (minimum 8):
- Front view, zipped/buttoned
- Front view, open
- Back view
- Interior lining
- Hardware (zips, buttons, snaps)
- Brand label
- Sleeve / cuff detail
- Pockets
Jeans and trousers
Essential shots (minimum 6):
- Front view, full length
- Back view, showing pockets
- Waist and fly area
- Brand patch / back label
- Inner tag (style number, wash code)
- Hem / leg opening
Shoes and trainers
Essential shots (minimum 8):
- Side profile (both shoes)
- Front view
- Back / heel view
- Sole / bottom
- Interior label / size tag
- Any logos or branding
- Wear or damage on soles
- Box (if available)
Dresses and skirts
Essential shots (minimum 6):
- Full length front view
- Full length back view
- Brand and size tag
- Fabric close-up
- Detail shot (zip, buttons, lining)
- On-body or styled shot
eBay vs Depop vs other platforms: photo specs
| eBay | Other resale platforms | Depop | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photo slots | 24 max | 20 max | 4 max |
| Min resolution | 500px (1600 rec.) | No strict min | 1280px rec. |
| Format | Any ratio | 4:5 portrait | 1:1 square |
| Watermarks | Not allowed | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Zoom | At 1600px+ | Pinch to zoom | No zoom |
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. Complete item specifics help your listing show up in filtered searches.
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 eBay’s fees when setting your price: 13.6% of the total sale plus $0.40 per order over $10 for most clothing in the US (UK private sellers pay no final value fee in any category except motors).
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, returns stay rare.
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.
Independent guide. Not affiliated with or endorsed by eBay.