eBay photo requirements, explained
By the EditXo team · Updated 7 October 2026 · 6 min read
eBay is more relaxed than Amazon about backgrounds but strict about what you add to a photo. This guide summarises eBay’s own Picture policy and its Adding pictures article, both linked below and read on the date at the top, and shows how to prepare listing photos in EditXo without uploading them anywhere else first.
The numbers
| Requirement | eBay’s rule |
|---|---|
| Minimum size | At least 500 pixels on the longest side; at least one photo per listing |
| Recommended size | About 1600 x 1600 pixels |
| Maximum file size | 12 MB per photo |
| Number of photos | Up to 24 per listing; the first is the main photo shown in search |
| Aspect ratio | 1:1 or 16:9 generally look best in listings and search |
| Storage | eBay keeps copies on completed listings for up to 90 days |
What eBay does not allow
eBay’s Picture policy prohibits photos that do not accurately represent the item, placeholder images used to convey messages, stock photos for used, damaged or defective items, photos with added borders, photos with added text, artwork or marketing material, and watermarks of any kind, including ownership watermarks. Its photo tips go further: do not add graphics such as badges, logos or copyright notices, because they can affect your listing’s placement in search results.
So keep the profile-picture effects for your profile. Listing photos should be the item, cleanly lit, and nothing else.
What eBay recommends
- Use high-resolution photos that are not blurry or pixelated; small photos get blurry when enlarged.
- Show the item in an uncluttered space against a neutral backdrop. White is generally best, but shiny or reflective items like jewellery can look better on a darker background.
- Use a tripod, or rest the camera on a flat surface and use the timer.
- Avoid flash and overhead lighting to reduce glare.
- Show the exact item, including any wear or damage, from several angles.
Prepare eBay photos in EditXo
- Open editxo.com and drop in the photo. Nothing is uploaded.
- If the background is cluttered, open Remove BG, click Remove Background, and choose a white or neutral colour under Change Background. eBay’s own app offers a similar white-background tool; doing it here first lets you check the edges at full size.
- Fix exposure and colour in the Adjust tab so the item’s colour is accurate. Do not over-saturate; the photo must represent the item truthfully.
- In Quick Presets, click eBay square (1600 x 1600) and drag to frame the item. For a wide item, crop to 16:9 with the Crop tool instead.
- Export as JPG at quality 85. That is typically well under eBay’s 12 MB limit.
Frequently asked questions
Do eBay photos need a white background?
No. eBay recommends an uncluttered, neutral backdrop, with white generally best, but it is not mandatory as it is for Amazon’s main image.
Can I add my shop logo or a watermark to protect my photos?
No. eBay prohibits watermarks of any type, including ownership attributions, and added logos, text and borders.
Why are my eBay photos blurry?
Usually because the original was small and got enlarged. Upload around 1600 pixels on the longest side, and do not upscale a small photo to reach it.
Can I use a stock photo?
Not for used, damaged or defective items. Buyers need to see the actual item.
Tools used in this guide
- Resize images without uploading them
- Remove the background from any image, without uploading it
- Professional photo adjustments in your browser