eBay US Image Requirements in 2026: Size, Formats, and the Picture Policy

eBay's picture policy says every listing needs at least one photo that is at least 500 pixels on the longest side. The help page on adding pictures words it as a minimum resolution of 500 x 500 pixels and recommends images of about 1600 x 1600. Build to the stricter reading: at least 500 pixels on both sides, and ideally 1600 x 1600.

The help page also says photos in a 1:1 or 16:9 aspect ratio generally look best in listings, search results and other placements. That is a preference, not a requirement. Our working recommendation is a square 1600 x 1600 JPEG, which matches both the size eBay recommends and its preferred ratio.

The picture policy lists six kinds of photo that are not allowed. The help page adds one practical reason to keep images clean: it says not to add graphics such as badges, logos, copyright notices or watermarks, because they can affect your listing's placement in search results.

If activity breaks the policy, eBay says it may remove the listing or other content, issue a warning, restrict activity, or suspend the account. The policy does not say which outcome follows which breach.

eBay's help page says you cannot use a catalog or stock photo if you list an item as used, and the picture policy prohibits stock photos for used, damaged or defective items. Photograph the unit you are selling. The help page also advises you to capture several angles and, if the item has flaws, scratches or other imperfections, to show clear close-up images of them.

Beyond those rules, our working checklist for used and refurbished stock is below. It is a recommendation, not an eBay requirement.

eBay's help page says white backgrounds are generally best, but a darker background may work better for shiny or reflective items such as jewelry. It recommends an uncluttered space against a neutral backdrop, and suggests reducing glare by avoiding flash or overhead lighting.

eBay does not publish a required fill percentage. Our working recommendation is to let the product fill most of a square frame, so it stays recognizable when search results show it as a small thumbnail. Keep the full item in frame, and do not crop off parts a buyer needs to see.

Picmato does not cut your product out of the old photo. It generates a fresh studio shot of the product, directed to a plain white studio background, from your uploads, iPhone HEIC files included. AI renderers do not guarantee an exact RGB value, so check the background with a color picker before uploading. For used or refurbished items, buyers need to see the actual unit and its condition, so photograph that unit yourself and keep AI images for new, identical stock.