Start from the aspect ratio, not the size
The aspect ratio shapes the entire catalog. Pick one ratio and stick to it across all products: any product with a different ratio will show odd margins in the category grid and break the page's consistency. The 1:1 square is the most compatible across stores and ads, while 4:5 is useful for clothing because it shows the full figure.
Recommended specs table
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Aspect ratio | 1:1 for most products, 4:5 for clothing |
| Size | 2000×2000 px (minimum 1200×1200) |
| Format | WebP if the store supports it, otherwise JPEG at 80–85% quality |
| File size | Under 300 KB for the displayed image |
| Background | Uniform white for the main image |
| Product area | 80–90% of the frame with even margins |
| Color space | sRGB |
These are general recommendations that suit most platforms; always check your platform's requirements before uploading a full catalog, since some marketplaces enforce their own limits.
Ordering images on the product page
- Image 1: The product isolated on white — the image that decides the click from the category page.
- Images 2 and 3: Different angles showing the full shape.
- Image 4: A close-up detail of the material, stitching, or packaging.
- Image 5: The product in a usage context that clarifies its real size.
- Image 6: The box contents or accessories, if any.
Naming and alt text
Name the file descriptively, not numerically: `abaya-black-embroidered-front.webp` is clearer than `IMG_2381.jpg`. Write alt text that describes what a human actually sees: the product type, color, and the prominent angle or detail. Keep it a short, natural sentence, and avoid repeating the store name on every image.
Consistency sells more than perfection
A catalog with average-quality but consistently lit, sized, and margined photos looks more professional than a catalog with excellent but mismatched photos. Define one template and apply it to every product, then regenerate old images gradually to catch up with the template — start with your ten best-selling products.
To nail that same white background, check the background removal guide.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best size for product images?
A 1:1 square at 2000×2000 px is a safe choice for most stores: it's enough for zooming in, and it automatically scales down for category cards without losing clarity.
How many images does each product need?
Usually four to six: an isolated main image, two images from different angles, a close-up detail image, a usage or scale image, and an image of the box contents if needed.
Do large images slow down the store?
Yes, if uploaded uncompressed. Upload a high-resolution but optimized image (under 300 KB for the displayed image), and let the platform generate the thumbnail sizes.
What's the benefit of alt text for an image?
It explains the image's content to screen readers and search engines, and increases the chances of your product appearing in image search. Write it as a genuine description of the product, not keyword stuffing.
