Great! You have some ideas on what to list for sale. Now you’re wondering how to quickly and easily create your listings on eBay with great photos that draw in buyers, accurately show the item’s features, and ensure you get positive feedback for describing exactly what you’re selling. Most likely, you already have exactly everything you need!
Getting Started: What Do You Need?
- Smartphone with eBay app and camera – any standard iPhone or Android phone from the last ~5 years works great
- A clean, neutral-colored, flat surface at least 2-3 times as big as the item you’re selling
- Good lighting for your pictures
- Clean, secure and organized storage
Quick Steps
Stage Your Item
- Find a smooth, flat surface like a kitchen counter, table or solid floor (no carpet!)
- Use a contrasting background
- Minimize clutter/distractions from your background
- Ensure there is plenty of light
Take 3-9 Photos
- Use the same device as the one you will use to sell your item
- Frame the shot so the item is clearly in focus and well lit
- Photograph all relevant angles, including part numbers, key details, labels and any flaws
Store Your Item
- Ensure the condition of your item will remain the same between your photos and when you eventually sell
- Prevent dust, pet hair, mold or other flaws
- Don’t package it up yet! Just in case there are questions or more pictures needed, keep the item accessible
Other Tips
- Photograph in batches for efficiency. Once you have your workspace and flow set up, it goes very quickly taking photos of 10+ items to sell instead of just 1-2 at a time. This also helps list in batches, which will give you the best chances to ship multiple packages at once!
- No need to over-do it with pictures. If in doubt, look at similar listings to see how many pictures other successful listings use
- For brand new, sealed-in-packaging items, you can add image results from the original manufacturer to illustrate the item more clearly without opening up the package. Remember to still take pictures of your exact item though, even if you are just showing a sealed box/bag
- For other item-specific photo tips, check out our guides on what to sell